Fluid transfer device having an elongated catheter and method of use thereof

Abstract

The device of the present invention includes a housing, a catheter, and an actuator. The housing has a first port and a second port connectable to an indwelling vascular access device. The catheter is disposed at least partially within the housing such that the first port of the housing receives a proximal end portion of the catheter. The actuator is disposed partially within the housing for selectively engaging a portion of the catheter within the housing. The actuator is configured to rotate an angular distance relative to the housing to move a distal end portion of the catheter a linear distance from a first position within the housing to a second position where the catheter extends distally of the indwelling vascular access device to which the second port is connected, through the second port. The linear distance is greater than the angular distance.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The embodiments described herein relate generally to fluid transfer devices. More particularly, the embodiments described herein relate to fluid transfer devices having controlled dimensions and / or catheter lengths. [Background technology]

[0002] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 889,252, entitled “Fluid Transfer Devices with Extended Length Catheters and Methods of Using the Same,” filed August 20, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Many medical procedures and / or surgical interventions involve inserting an access or fluid transfer device into a part of the body. For example, catheters and / or other lumen defining devices may be inserted into and / or through the vasculature to access a part of the body. In some instances, such catheters, access devices, and / or the like may have relatively long catheter lengths that may pose challenges during use. For example, in some instances, catheters and / or access devices used in interventional cardiology may have lengths of 300 centimeters (cm) or more, which may result in cumbersome and / or difficult use of such devices. Additionally, the length of such catheters and / or access devices may result in undesirable bending, bending, and kinking.

[0004] In other examples, a catheter and / or other lumen-defining device can be used to transfer fluid from or to a patient. In some examples, in order to improve ease of use and / or reduce cost (manufacturing and / or materials), it is desirable for such fluid transfer devices to maintain a relatively small and / or compact form factor. However, in such cases, maintaining a relatively small and / or compact form factor can result in an undesirable reduction in the effective length and / or "reach" of the catheter included in the device.

[0005] For example, a peripheral intravenous catheter or line (PIV) can be inserted into a patient and used for the infusion of liquids and medications. Generally, PIVs are not designed for blood extraction and typically have an increasing failure rate as the dwell time lengthens (e.g., due to obstructions, deposits, debris, thrombi, fibrin, etc.). However, in some examples, a fluid transfer device can be connected to the proximal portion (e.g., the portion outside the body) of the PIV and used to advance a catheter through the indwelling PIV to a position where the distal end of the catheter extends beyond the distal end of the indwelling PIV. Such a device allows the distal end of the catheter to be positioned in a vein that receives blood flow that may otherwise be obstructed or limited by the presence of an indwelling PIV. On the other hand, in order to be able to position the catheter beyond the PIV to a desired location, such a device may have a relatively long length. Further, the length of such a device may be further increased when the device is designed for use with an extended-dwell PIV or a midline PIV, and / or a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC).

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for a compact fluid transfer device having controllable dimensions and / or catheter length. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM

[0007] Described herein are devices and methods for fluid transfer to and from a patient via a placed peripheral venous catheter using a relatively compact device. In some embodiments, the device includes a housing, a catheter, and an actuator. The housing has a first port and a second port connectable to an indwelling vascular access device. The catheter has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The catheter is at least partially disposed within the housing such that the first port of the housing receives the proximal end portion of the catheter. The actuator is at least partially disposed within the housing and selectively engages a portion of the catheter within the housing. The actuator is designed to move the distal end portion of the catheter a linear distance upon rotation of an angular distance relative to the housing, the distal end portion of the catheter moving from a first position to a second position, the first position being a position where the distal end portion of the catheter is disposed within the housing, and the second position being a position where the catheter is extended through the second port such that the distal end portion of the catheter is located distal to the indwelling vascular access device when the second port is connected to the intravascular access device. The linear distance is greater than the angular distance. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration, according to one embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration, according to one embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration, according to one embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a fluid transfer device according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] 12 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the fluid transfer device of FIG. 11 in a first configuration. [Figure 13] 12 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the fluid transfer device of FIG. 11 in a second configuration. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first position according to one embodiment. [Figure 19] 2A-2C are schematic diagrams of a fluid transfer device in transition from a first position (FIG. 18) to a second position (FIG. 20), according to one embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second position according to one embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a side view of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration according to one embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a side view of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration according to one embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a partially exploded side view of the fluid transfer device of FIGS. 21 and 22. [Figure 24]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration, according to one embodiment. [Diagram 25] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration, according to one embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device according to one embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device according to one embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first position according to one embodiment. [Figure 29] 27A-27C are schematic diagrams of a fluid transfer device in transition from a first position (FIG. 28) to a second position (FIG. 30), according to one embodiment. [Diagram 30] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second position according to one embodiment. [Diagram 31] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a first position according to one embodiment. [Diagram 32] 33 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in transition from a first position (FIG. 31) to a second position (FIG. 33), according to one embodiment. [Diagram 33] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fluid transfer device in a second position according to one embodiment. [Diagram 34] FIG. 2 is a top view of a fluid transfer device in a first configuration according to one embodiment. [Diagram 35] FIG. 2 is a top view of a fluid transfer device in a second configuration according to one embodiment. [Diagram 36] FIG. 35 is a partially exploded perspective view of the fluid transfer device of FIG. 34. [Figure 37] FIG. 35 is a bottom view of the actuator 1650 of the fluid transfer device of FIG. [Figure 38] FIG. 35 is a top view of the actuator 1650 of the fluid transfer device of FIG. [Figure 39] FIG. 35 is a top view of the housing 1610 of the fluid transfer device of FIG. [Diagram 40] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a fluid transfer device according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] The embodiments described herein can be used in any suitable medical procedure and / or surgical intervention. For example, in some embodiments, a device such as those described herein can be used as an access device or the like during a surgical intervention. In another embodiment, a device such as those described herein can be used to transfer fluid between a patient and any external connection, fluid source, fluid reservoir, or the like. As one example, any of the embodiments described herein can be used for transferring fluid to or from a patient, for example, via an indwelling peripheral intravenous line (PIV) (or other suitable access device or port). In such an embodiment, the device can be coupled to an indwelling or placed PIV and can be manipulated to advance a catheter through the PIV and position a distal end portion of the catheter at a location beyond the distal end of the PIV (e.g., within a target vein). In some embodiments, the device can have a relatively compact form factor, but is designed such that the compact form factor does not limit and / or reduce catheter length, "reach," or "throw," as described in more detail herein.

[0010] In some embodiments, the device includes a housing, a catheter, and an actuator. The housing has a first port and a second port that is connectable to an indwelling vascular access device. The catheter has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion and is disposed at least partially within the housing such that the first port of the housing receives the proximal end portion of the catheter. The actuator is disposed partially within the housing for selectively engaging a portion of the catheter within the housing. The actuator is designed to move the distal end portion of the catheter a linear distance upon rotation of an angular distance relative to the housing, where the distal end portion of the catheter moves from a first position where the distal end portion of the catheter is disposed within the housing through the second port to a second position where the catheter is extended. In the second position, the distal end portion of the catheter is distal to the indwelling vascular access device when the second port is connected to the intravascular access device. The linear distance is greater than the angular distance.

[0011] In some embodiments, the device includes a housing, a catheter, and an actuator. The housing has a first port and a second port connectable to an indwelling vascular access device. The catheter has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion and is at least partially disposed within the housing such that the first port of the housing receives the proximal end portion. The actuator defines an inner channel and is partially disposed within the housing such that the actuator and the housing collectively define an outer channel. The actuator is rotatable relative to the housing to move the catheter between the first position and the second position. The catheter in the first position extends within the housing from the first port through the outer channel and the inner channel to the second port. The catheter in the second position extends within the housing from the first port, through the inner channel, and through the second port.

[0012] In some embodiments, the device includes a catheter, a housing, and an actuator. The catheter has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion and defines a lumen extending through the proximal end portion and the distal end portion. The housing is configured to accommodate at least a portion of the catheter. The housing has a first port configured to receive the proximal end portion of the catheter and a second port configured to couple the housing to an indwelling vascular access device (e.g., an extended indwelling PIV and / or the like). The actuator is movably coupled to the housing. A portion of the actuator is disposed within the housing and in contact with a portion of the catheter. The actuator is configured to rotate an angular distance to move the distal end portion of the catheter a linear distance, the linear distance being greater than the angular distance. The distal end portion of the catheter is disposed within the housing when in the first position and extends through the second port such that the distal end portion of the catheter is distal to the indwelling vascular access device when in the second position.

[0013] In some embodiments, the device includes a catheter, a housing, and an actuator. The catheter has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion and defines a lumen extending through the proximal end portion and the distal end portion. The housing is configured to accommodate a spooling mechanism and at least a portion of the catheter. The housing has a first port configured to receive the proximal end portion of the catheter and a second port configured to couple the housing to an indwelling peripheral venous line. The actuator is coupled to the housing such that a portion of the actuator is disposed within the housing and in contact with the catheter. The actuator is configured to move relative to the housing to rotate the spooling mechanism. As a result of the rotation, the catheter is configured to move between a first position in which the distal end portion of the catheter is disposed within the housing and a second position in which the distal end portion of the catheter extends through the second port and is distal to the second port.

[0014] In some embodiments, the fluid transfer device includes a housing having a first port and a second port, a catheter having a proximal end portion fixedly coupled to the first port, and an actuator selectively engaged with the catheter. In some embodiments, a method of using the fluid transfer device includes coupling the second port of the fluid transfer device to an indwelling vascular access device. The actuator rotates an angular distance about a central axis defined by the housing. In response to the rotation of the actuator, the distal end portion of the catheter advances a linear distance from the first position to the second position. The distal end portion of the catheter is within the housing when the catheter is in the first position and advances linearly in a direction perpendicular to the central axis through the second port and the indwelling vascular access device as the catheter moves to the second position. When the catheter is in the second position, the distal end portion of the catheter is distal to the indwelling vascular access device.

[0015] Although at least some of the devices are described herein as being used with and / or coupled to a PIV to transfer fluids to and from a patient, it should be understood that such use is exemplary and not limiting. For example, as described in further detail herein, in other examples, any of the devices described herein can be used with PIVs and / or other vascular access devices (e.g., extended indwelling PIVs, midline PIVs, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), and / or the like) having increased lengths relative to the lengths of standard or "short" PIVs, due to their relatively compact configuration.

[0016] Although described herein as being used, for example, to aspirate bodily fluids (e.g., blood) from a patient, it should be understood that the embodiments and / or devices are not so limited. For example, in some examples, the embodiments and / or devices can be used to aspirate bodily fluids, including, but not limited to, blood, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, bile, lymph, saliva, synovial fluid, serous fluid, pleural fluid, amniotic fluid, mucus, vitreous fluid, air, and the like, or any combination thereof. In other examples, the embodiments and / or devices can be used to deliver one or more fluids from a fluid source to a patient. In still other examples, the embodiments and / or devices can be used for any suitable procedure involving catheterization of a target region within the body, and the like. That is, the embodiments and / or devices are not limited to the transfer of fluids to or from a patient, but can be used, for example, to provide access to a target region within a patient's body for any suitable purpose. Furthermore, it should be understood that reference to a "patient" need not be limited to a human patient. For example, any of the devices described herein can be used in any suitable procedure performed on an animal (e.g., by a veterinarian and / or the like).

[0017] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "a member" means a single member or combination of members, and the term "a material" is intended to mean one or more materials, or combinations thereof.

[0018] As used herein, the terms "catheter" and "cannula" are used interchangeably to refer to an element configured to define a passageway for accessing a portion of a (e.g., human and / or animal) body. In some examples, the passageway defined by the catheter and / or cannula can be used to move bodily fluids or physical objects (e.g., stents, puncture plugs, hyaluronic acid gel, etc.) from a first location to a second location. Although a cannula can be configured to receive a trocar, guidewire, or introducer to deliver the cannula to a volume within a patient's body, a cannula as referred to herein need not include or receive a trocar, guidewire, or introducer.

[0019] As used herein, the terms "proximal" and "distal" refer to directions closer and further away, respectively, from a user who brings the device into contact with a patient. Thus, for example, the end of the device that first touches the patient's body would be the distal end, and the opposite end of the device (e.g., the end of the device that is manipulated by the user) would be the proximal end of the device.

[0020] As used herein, the terms "about" and "approximately", when used in connection with values ​​and / or ranges, generally mean values ​​and / or ranges close to the stated value and / or range. In some examples, the terms "about" and "approximately" may mean within ±10% of the stated value. The terms "about" and "approximately" may be used interchangeably. For example, about 0.5 can include 0.45 and 0.55, about 10 can include 9-11, about 1000 can include 900-1100, etc. Similarly, the term "substantially" used in connection with physical and / or geometric features, structures, properties, relationships, etc., is intended to mean that the features, structures, properties, relationships, etc. so defined are nominal. As one example, a first quantity described as "substantially equal" to a second quantity is intended to mean that while it may be desirable for them to be identical, there may be some variation. Such variations may result from manufacturing tolerances, limitations, approximations, and / or other practical considerations.

[0021] The embodiments and / or portions thereof described herein may be formed or constructed of one or more biocompatible materials. In some embodiments, the biocompatible material may be selected based on one or more properties of the constituent materials, such as, for example, stiffness, toughness, durometer, bioreactivity, etc. Examples of suitable biocompatible materials include metals, glasses, ceramics, or polymers. Examples of suitable metals include pharmaceutical grade stainless steel, gold, titanium, nickel, iron, platinum, tin, chromium, copper, and / or alloys thereof. Polymeric materials may be biodegradable or non-biodegradable. Examples of suitable biodegradable polymers include polylactides, polyglycolides, polylactide-co-glycolides, polyanhydrides, polyorthoesters, polyetheresters, polycaprolactones, polyesteramides, poly(butyric acid), poly(valeric acid), polyurethanes, biodegradable polyamides (nylons), and / or blends and copolymers thereof. Examples of non-biodegradable polymers include non-degradable polyamides (nylons), polyesters, polycarbonates, polyacrylates, polymers of ethylene-vinyl acetate and other acyl-substituted cellulose acetates, non-degradable polyurethanes, polystyrenes, polyvinyl chlorides, polyvinyl fluorides, poly(vinylimidazoles), chlorosulfonated polyolefins, polyethylene oxides, and / or blends and copolymers thereof.

[0022] 1 and 2 are schematic diagrams of a fluid transfer device 100 in a first and second configuration, respectively, according to one embodiment. In some embodiments, the fluid transfer device 100 (also referred to herein as the "device") can be configured to couple and / or otherwise engage an access device and / or the like, and can be manipulated to position a portion of the access device and / or catheter at a desired location within the body. For example, as described in more detail herein, the device 100 can be coupled to an indwelling peripheral intravenous catheter (PIV) to transfer bodily fluids from a portion of a patient and / or to transfer fluids (e.g., withdrawing blood or injecting a drug or substance) to a portion of a patient.

[0023] The device 100 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. As shown in FIG. 1, the device 100 includes at least a housing 110, a catheter (or cannula) 130, and an actuator 150. The housing 110 can be of any suitable configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the housing 110 can be an elongated member (e.g., cylindrical) having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the housing 110 can have a square, rectangular, and / or any other polygonal cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the housing 110 can be a cube, having rounded or non-rounded sides, vertices, and the like. In yet other embodiments, the housing 110 can have any suitable irregular shape, cross-section, and / or the like. In some embodiments, the shape of the housing 110, and / or one or more features and / or surface finishes of at least an exterior surface of the housing 110, can be arranged to improve the ergonomics of the device 100, which in some instances allows a user to operate the device 100 with one hand (i.e., single-handed use). As described in more detail herein, the arrangement of the device 100 is such that the housing 110 has a relatively compact length, etc., without limiting and / or reducing the length of the catheter 130. In some embodiments, the housing 110 can have a length and / or dimensions that are less than the length of the catheter 130 that is at least partially disposed therein, for example.

[0024] The housing 110 has a first port 111 and a second port 112. The first port 111 (e.g., a proximal port) is configured to receive a proximal end portion 131 of the catheter 130, and the second port (e.g., a distal port) is configured to movably receive a distal end portion 132 of the catheter 130. The ports 111 and 112 can be of any suitable configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the first port 111 can be a clamp, a grommet, an O-ring, a compression member, a Luer Lok™, and / or any other suitable coupler. In some embodiments, as described in more detail herein, the first port 111 can receive the proximal end portion 131 of the catheter 130 and can position a portion of the catheter 130 into the housing 110 while maintaining a fixed portion of the catheter 130 (e.g., the proximal end portion 131) outside the housing 110. In some embodiments, the second port 112 can be a locking mechanism and / or coupler configured to couple the housing 110 to a PIV (e.g., an indwelling PIV or a placement PIV) and / or any suitable adapter (e.g., an IV extension set, etc.) coupled to a PIV. For example, in some embodiments, the second port 112 can be, for example, a Luer Lok™, “Clip-Lock-Snap” connection, and / or the like configured to be physically and fluidly coupled to a PIV. Additionally, as described in more detail herein, the second port 112 is configured to movably receive a distal end portion 132 of the catheter 130 such that the distal end portion 132 of the catheter 130 can be advanced through the second port 112 and the PIV (not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ) to be at least partially positioned within a patient's vein (e.g., a vein in which the PIV is placed).

[0025] Although the second port 112 is described as being configured to couple to a PIV, it should be understood that the second port 112 may be configured to couple to any suitable connector, adapter, access device, and / or any other suitable device. Further, as previously mentioned, the PIV may be a standard or short PIV, an extended indwelling PIV, a midline PIV, a PICC line, and / or the like.

[0026] The catheter 130 includes a proximal end portion 131 and a distal end portion 132 and defines a lumen (not shown) extending therethrough. Although described as defining a lumen, in some embodiments, the catheter 130 may include and / or define multiple lumens, channels, flow paths, etc. Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the proximal end portion 131 of the catheter 130 may include and / or be coupled to a coupler and / or lock configured to couple (e.g., physically and fluidly) the catheter 130 to any suitable device and / or reservoir (e.g., a syringe, a fluid reservoir, a sample reservoir, an exhaust container, a fluid source, etc.). As described in further detail herein, the distal end portion 132 of the catheter 130 is configured to be inserted into a portion of a patient's body.

[0027] At least a portion of the catheter 130 is movably disposed within the housing 110. In some embodiments, the catheter 130 can be moved (e.g., via movement of the actuator 150) between a first position and a second position to transition the device 100 between the first and second configurations, respectively. More specifically, as described in further detail herein, when the catheter 130 is in the first position (FIG. 1), a distal end portion 132 of the catheter 130 is disposed within the housing 110, and when the catheter 130 is in the second position (FIG. 2), at least a portion of the catheter 130 (e.g., the distal end portion 132) extends through the second port 112 and the PIV (not shown) to position the distal end of the catheter 130 at a location distal to the PIV.

[0028] The catheter 130 can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials, as described above. In some embodiments, the catheter 130 can be formed from a material or combination of materials and / or can have a size, shape, diameter, thickness, etc. to provide any suitable stiffness, flexibility, hardness, and / or durometer. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the catheter 130 can be formed from a braided material, etc., which can change, modify, and / or change the flexibility of the catheter 130 in response to bending forces, etc. In some embodiments, forming the catheter 130 from a braided material, etc., can reduce the likelihood of kinking, pinching, bending, and / or deforming in other undesirable ways. Additionally, forming at least a portion of the catheter 130 from a braided material can provide compression and / or deformation in response to compressive forces (e.g., axial forces, etc.) applied in the direction of a longitudinal centerline defined by the catheter 130. In this manner, the catheter 130 can absorb a portion of the forces associated with, for example, impacting an obstacle, etc.

[0029] The catheter 130 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the catheter 130 can have a length, diameter, and / or configuration based at least in part on one or more characteristics and / or aspects of the access device to which the device 100 is configured to couple. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the catheter 130 can have an outer diameter (e.g., between 8 gauge and 33 gauge, and / or other suitable dimensions or range of dimensions) that is substantially equal to or slightly smaller than an inner diameter defined by a portion of the second port 112 and / or an inner diameter defined by a portion of the access device to which the second port 112 is coupled (e.g., PIV, extended indwelling PIV, midline, PICC line, etc.). In this manner, the inner surface of the second port 112 and / or the PIV can guide the catheter 130 as it moves through the second port 112 and / or the PIV, as described in more detail herein. In some embodiments, such an arrangement can limit and / or substantially prevent bending, deformation, and / or kinking of portions of catheter 130 during use.

[0030] In some embodiments, the catheter 130 can have a length sufficient to position the distal surface of the catheter 130 at a desired location within and / or relative to the access device when the catheter 130 is in the second position. In some embodiments, the length of the catheter 130 can have a length sufficient to define a predetermined, desired, and / or at least a threshold distance between the distal surface of the catheter 130 and the distal surface of the PIV when the catheter 130 is in the second position. In some embodiments, positioning the distal surface of the catheter 130 at a predetermined, desired, and / or at least a threshold distance from the distal surface of the PIV can, for example, position the distal surface of the catheter 130 at a desired location within the vein, as described in more detail herein. In some embodiments, the catheter 130 can include markings or indicia that can be used to determine the distance between the distal surface of the catheter 130 and the distal surface of the PIV when the catheter 130 is in the second position. Additionally, catheter 130 has sufficient length such that when fully extended (e.g., in the second position), catheter 130 can be positioned at a desired location relative to the distal face of an access device having a relatively long length. Thus, when device 100 is coupled to an access device having a relatively short length, the distal face of catheter 130 can be positioned at a desired location relative to the distal face of the shorter access device without being fully extended.

[0031] In some embodiments, for example, the predetermined separation, desired distance, and / or threshold (e.g., minimum) distance between the distal face of the catheter 130 and the distal face of the access device (e.g., PIV) can be between about 0.0 millimeters (mm) and about 50.0 mm (from about 0.0 inches (in) to about 2 inches). In another embodiment, the predetermined distance, desired distance, and / or threshold distance can be between about 15.0 mm and about 30.0 mm (from about 0.59 inches to about 1.18 inches). In yet another embodiment, the distal end portion 132 of the catheter 130 can be advanced, for example, via the hub of the access device while remaining proximal to the distal face of the access device (e.g., the distal end portion 132 of the catheter 130 does not extend through the access device). For example, in some embodiments, the predetermined distance and / or desired distance between the distal face of the catheter 130 and the distal face of the access device can be proximal to the distal face of the access device when the distal face of the catheter 130 is between about 80.0 mm and about 0.0 mm (between about 3.15 inches and about 0.0 inches) (e.g., -80.0 mm to about 0.0 mm).

[0032] In some embodiments, the length of the catheter 130 can be based at least in part on the desired and / or intended use. For example, in some embodiments, the device 100 can be configured for use in interventional cardiology such that the catheter 130 can have a length of, for example, 320.0 centimeters (cm) (about 12.60 inches) or more. In another embodiment, the device 100 can be configured for use in fluid transfer via a PIV (e.g., standard PIV or short PIV, extended dwell PIV, midline, etc.) and can have a length between about 1.77 cm and about 25.4 cm (between about 0.5 inches (in) and about 10.0 inches).

[0033] In some embodiments, the length of the catheter 130 can be greater than the length of the housing 110. Additionally, the length of the portion of the catheter 130 disposed within the housing 110 can be greater than the length of the housing 110 and / or at least the length of a line extending between the first port 111 and the second port 112 of the housing 110. For example, in some embodiments, the portion of the catheter 130 disposed within the housing 110 can be formed and / or arranged in a U-shaped configuration (forming a U-bend or a 180° turn within the housing). In another embodiment, the portion of the catheter 130 disposed within the housing can be formed and / or arranged in any suitable manner and / or with any suitable rotational angle from no rotation (0°) to a full rotation (360°), or any suitable rotational angle greater than a full rotation (e.g., can form any number of loops or any suitable portion thereof). In another embodiment, the portion of the catheter 130 disposed within the housing 110 may be arranged in a helical arrangement, a coil arrangement, and / or any other circuitous, tortuous, or substantially non-linear arrangement.

[0034] Thus, the arrangement of the catheter 130 disposed within the housing 110 can provide an increase in the "reach" of the catheter 130 for a given length of the housing 110. In some embodiments, such an arrangement allows the device 100 to be used with access devices having relatively long lengths, such as, for example, extended indwelling PIV, midline PIV, PICC lines, and / or the like. In other embodiments, the arrangement of the catheter 130 disposed within the housing 110 can reduce the length of the housing 110 without a similar or corresponding decrease in the length or reach of the catheter 130. Additionally, the arrangement of the catheter 130 within the housing 110 can shorten the unsupported portion of the catheter 130 as compared to the unsupported portion of a catheter having a straight or linear configuration, which can reduce the likelihood of undesirable bowing, kinking, bending, deflection, and / or deformation when the catheter 130 is advanced to the second position.

[0035] The actuator 150 of the device 100 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. The actuator 150 is coupled to the housing 110 and the catheter 130. More specifically, the actuator 150 can be a rotary actuator or mechanism including a first portion disposed outside the housing 110 and a second portion disposed within the housing 110. In this manner, a user can move the actuator 150 relative to the housing 110 by engaging the first portion and rotating the actuator 150 as indicated by arrows AA in FIGS. 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the housing 110 can define a range of motion for the actuator 150. For example, in some embodiments, the actuator 150 can include structures, features, components, and / or the like that selectively engage a portion of the actuator 150 that can limit, constrain, guide, and / or otherwise guide the amount or direction of movement of the portion of the actuator 150. That is, the actuator 150 can be rotated through a desired range of motion and / or a desired angular displacement based at least in part on the dimensions and / or location of portions of the actuator 150 and the dimensions and / or location of portions of the actuator housing 110. As described in further detail herein, the actuator 150 can be actuated to advance (e.g., rotate) the catheter 130 between a first position (FIG. 1) and a second position (FIG. 2).

[0036] Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a second portion of the actuator 150 is coupled to and / or in contact with the catheter 130. For example, in some embodiments, the second portion of the actuator 150 can be and / or include a relatively rigid member, mechanism, sleeve, and / or the like, and can define a lumen or channel configured to movably receive a portion of the catheter 130. In some embodiments, the lumen or channel of the second portion can have a U-shaped arrangement, a bent arrangement, a helical arrangement, a coiled arrangement, a circuitous or serpentine arrangement, and / or the like. In some embodiments, the second portion, and / or the lumen or channel defined by the second portion, can have any suitable radius of curvature and any suitable surface configured to engage, guide, and / or control at least a portion of the catheter 130.

[0037] In another embodiment, the second portion of the actuator 150 can be a wheel, disk, gear, sprocket, and / or the like configured to contact a portion of the catheter 130 and / or a member coupled to the catheter 130. In such an embodiment, the arrangement of the second portion and the catheter 130 is such that an outer surface of the catheter 130 can contact the second portion of the actuator 150, and frictional forces resulting from such contact at least partially resist movement of the catheter 130 relative to the second portion of the actuator 150. In this manner, as the actuator 150 rotates relative to the housing 110, the second portion of the actuator 150 advances the catheter 130 tangent (or substantially tangent) to a point (or area) of contact between the second portion of the actuator 150 and the catheter 130.

[0038] The arrangement of the device 100 can be such that rotational movement of the actuator 150 about a predetermined axis within the housing 110 advances a portion of the catheter 130 engaged with the actuator 150 (e.g., a second portion of the actuator 150), thereby moving the catheter 130 between a first position and a second position. As previously described, the proximal end portion 131 of the catheter 130 is coupled to and / or otherwise extends through the first port 111 while simultaneously configuring the distal end portion 132 of the catheter 130 to move relative to the housing 110 (e.g., through the second port 112). Thus, as shown in FIG. 2, rotating the actuator 150 in a counterclockwise direction (e.g., in the AA direction) advances a portion of the catheter 130 about the axis of the actuator 150 (e.g., about a second portion of the actuator 150, not shown). In response, the distal end portion 132 of the catheter 130 moves from a first position (FIG. 1) to a second position (FIG. 2).

[0039] In some embodiments, the arrangement of the catheter 130 can be such that the proximal end portion 131 of the catheter 130 is fixedly coupled to the first port 111 and / or otherwise maintains the proximal end portion 131 of the catheter 130 in a fixed position relative to the first port. In this manner, rotating the actuator 150 via rotation and / or angular displacement can advance, coil (or unwind), spool (or unwind), and / or otherwise move a portion of the catheter 130 disposed within the housing 110. In other words, the proximal end portion 131 can be maintained in a substantially fixed position relative to the housing 110 as the catheter 130 is moved between the first and second positions. In another embodiment, the proximal end portion of the catheter 130 can be movably coupled to and / or movably received in the first port 111. In this manner, rotating the actuator via rotation and / or angular displacement can advance, coil (or unwind), spool (or unwind), and / or otherwise move all or substantially all of the catheter 130 relative to the housing 110. In this manner, regardless of whether the proximal end portion 131 of the catheter 130 is fixedly or movably coupled to the first port 111 of the housing 110, the arrangement of the device 100 can be such that the housing 110 has a relatively compact, limited, and / or reduced length, while at the same time the catheter 130 has a sufficient length to extend a desired distance (e.g., at least partially into or through a standard or short PIV, an extended indwelling PIV, a midline PIV, a PICC line, and / or any other suitable access device).

[0040] 3 and 4 show a fluid transfer device 200 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 200 (also referred to herein as a "device") includes a housing 210, a catheter 230, and an actuator 250. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the housing 210 is an elongated member, a tube, a housing, a guide, or the like. In some embodiments, the housing 210 can be substantially straight and / or linear with a relatively small internal cross-sectional profile. As described above with respect to the housing 110, the housing 210 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 includes a first port 211 (e.g., a proximal port) and a second port 212 (e.g., a distal port). The ports 211 and 212 can be any suitable coupling mechanism, lock, port, opening, cap, or the like. The ports 211 and 212 can be of the same configuration or different configurations. That is, the first port 211 can be similar to the second port 212 or different from the second port 212. Additionally, the second port 212 is configured to be coupled to an access device, such as, for example, a PIV, an extended indwelling PIV, a midline, a PICC line, or the like.

[0041] Catheter 230 may be any suitable lumen-defining device. For example, in some embodiments, catheter 230 may be similar to or substantially identical to catheter 130 described above in connection with Figures 1 and 2. Accordingly, some and / or aspects of catheter 230 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the catheter 230 is configured to be at least partially and / or temporarily disposed within the housing 210. More specifically, the catheter 230 includes a proximal end portion 231 that is coupled, received, and / or otherwise disposed at or near the first port 211, and a distal end portion 232 that is coupled, received, and / or otherwise disposed at or near the second port 212. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the proximal end portion 231 of the catheter 230 is movably coupled to and / or otherwise received by the first port 211. For example, the first port 211 can be configured such that at least the proximal end portion 231 of the catheter 230 can be moved through the first port 211. In some embodiments, the proximal end portion 231 of the catheter 230 can be coupled to a secondary catheter, or the like. The secondary catheter is configured to fluidly connect the catheter 230 to a fluid source, a fluid reservoir, and / or any other suitable device. In another embodiment, the proximal end portion 231 of the catheter 230 can be movably extended at least partially through the first port 211. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the distal end portion 232 of the catheter 230 is configured to be movably coupled to and / or otherwise received by the second port 212 of the housing 210. In this manner, at least a portion of the catheter 230 disposed between the proximal end portion 231 and the distal end portion 232 is disposed within the housing 210.

[0043] The actuator 250 can be any suitable member, mechanism, device, etc. For example, in some embodiments, the actuator 250 can be substantially similar in form and / or function to the actuator 150 described above with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the actuator 250 includes a first portion 251 and a second portion 252. The actuator 250 can be coupled to the housing 210 at or near the second port 212 of the housing 210 (e.g., at or near a distal end portion of the housing 210). In another embodiment, the actuator 250 can be coupled to the housing 210 at any suitable location along the length of the housing 210. Also, the actuator 250 can be coupled to the housing 210 in any suitable manner that allows for rotation of the actuator 250 relative to the housing 210. Additionally, the actuator 250 can be coupled to the housing 210 such that the second portion 252 is at least partially disposed within the housing 210 while simultaneously contacting and / or otherwise engaging the catheter 230.

[0044] As discussed above with respect to actuator 150, actuator 250 is configured such that rotational movement of actuator 250 causes second portion 252 of actuator 250 to engage catheter 230, thereby moving catheter 230 in a linear direction between a first position (e.g., a proximal position as shown in FIG. 3) and a second position (e.g., a distal position as shown in FIG. 4). More specifically, in use, device 200 can be in a first configuration and / or state in which at least a distal end portion of catheter 230 is disposed within housing 210 (FIG. 3), and a user can manipulate device 200 by engaging first portion 251 of actuator 250 to place device 200 in a second configuration and / or state. For example, a user can apply a force to first portion 251 of actuator 250 to rotate the actuator, e.g., in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow BB in FIG. 4. In this manner, the second portion 252 of the actuator 250 rotates relative to the housing 210 to engage and move the catheter 230 in the distal direction indicated by arrow CC in Figure 4. Thus, as described above with respect to the device 100, when the second port 212 of the housing 210 is coupled to an access device or the like (not shown in Figures 3 and 4), the catheter 230 can be advanced to a desired position relative to the access device.

[0045] In some embodiments, the ratio of the angular displacement of the actuator 250 to the linear displacement of the catheter 230 can be adjusted and / or selected to move the catheter 230 with a desired set of characteristics. For example, the device 200 can be pre-tuned so that a known number of rotations or fractions of rotations (e.g., ½ rotation, 1 rotation, 10 rotations, etc.) can result in a known amount of advancement of the distal end portion 232 of the catheter 230. In some embodiments, the device 200 can be configured with a mechanical advantage, gearing, to provide a “length multiplication” and / or “displacement multiplication” effect such that a relatively small amount of rotation of the actuator 250 results in a relatively large amount of translation of the distal end portion 232 of the catheter 230. When accessing a vein or the like through an access device coupled to the second port 212, the linear displacement of at least the distal end portion 232 of the catheter 230 can be sufficient to position the distal face of the catheter 230 in a desired position relative to the distal face of the access device, regardless of the type and / or length of the access device. For example, in some instances, it may be desirable to position the distal face of the catheter 230 distal to the distal face of the access device. In such instances, the arrangement of the device 200 can be such that the housing 210 has a compact, limited, and / or reduced length, while at the same time the catheter 230 has a sufficient length to extend beyond the distal end of the access device (e.g., PIV, etc.).

[0046] In some embodiments, the arrangement of the actuator 250 and catheter 230 may also be adjusted and / or selected based at least in part on the amount of force applied to the actuator 250 to rotate the actuator 250 and / or the amount of force associated with the advancement of the catheter 230. For example, in some embodiments, the arrangement of the actuator 250 and catheter 230 may be such that the distal end portion 232 of the catheter 230 is advanced in response to a relatively small amount of force applied to the actuator 250 (e.g., via mechanical advantage, gearing, etc.). In some embodiments, the amount of frictional force between the second portion 252 of the actuator 250 and the catheter 230 may be increased or decreased to allow a desired amount of slippage between the second portion 252 and the catheter 230, such as in response to the catheter hitting an obstacle. In some examples, reducing the amount of force associated with advancing the catheter 230 can reduce and / or limit damage to the catheter 230 and / or other structures (e.g., a vein wall or portions of an access device) that might otherwise occur, such as when the distal face of the catheter 230 strikes an obstacle.

[0047] 5 and 6 show a fluid transfer device 300 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 300 (also referred to herein as "device") can be substantially similar to the devices 100 and / or 200 in at least some aspects of its structure and / or function. The device 300 includes a housing 310 and a catheter 330. The housing 310 includes a first port 311 configured to receive a proximal end portion 331 of the catheter 330 and a second port 312 configured to receive a distal end portion 332 of the catheter 330, as described above with respect to the devices 100 and / or 200. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the housing 310 can be an elongated member, tube, introducer, sheath, etc. that includes and / or forms a loop, i.e., a complete 360° turn, between the first port 311 and the second port 312. For example, in some embodiments, the housing 310 can be a relatively rigid member (e.g., formed from a relatively hard plastic and / or the like) that is formed or molded into a looped shape or configuration. In another embodiment, the housing 310 can be formed from a relatively flexible material, etc., that allows the housing 310 to bend, form, curve, and / or otherwise change configuration. In such embodiments, a user can manipulate the device 300 to place the housing 310 into any suitable shape and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the housing 310 can be formed and / or placed into a shape or configuration that, for example, reduces the overall length and / or overall dimensions of the device 300.

[0048] As described above with respect to devices 100 and / or 200, the catheter 330 of device 300 is at least partially disposed within the housing 310 and is configured to be capable of transitioning and / or moving between at least a first position (e.g., a proximal position) and a second position (e.g., a distal position). As shown, the catheter 330 includes a proximal end portion 331 that is coupled, received, and / or otherwise disposed at or near the first port 311 and a distal end portion 332 that is coupled, received, and / or otherwise disposed at or near the second port 312. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the proximal end portion 331 of the catheter 330 is movably coupled and / or otherwise received in the first port 311, as described above with respect to the catheter 330. The distal end portion 332 of the catheter 330 is configured to movably coupled and / or otherwise received in the second port 312 of the housing 310. As such, at least a portion of the catheter 330 disposed between the proximal end portion 331 and the distal end portion 332 is disposed within the housing 310. In some embodiments, the coiled or looped configuration of the housing 310 can allow the length of the catheter 330 to be greater than the length or distance between the first port 311 and the second port 312. Thus, the catheter 330 can have any desired length or "reach" without substantially increasing the overall length of the device 300. Although the housing 310 is shown as forming a single loop, circle, coil, turn, etc., it should be understood that the housing can include any number of loops or turns, thereby allowing for any suitable catheter length.

[0049] 5 and 6, a user can, for example, articulate a proximal end portion 331 of the catheter 330 to move or transition the catheter 330 between a first position and a second position. For example, the device 300 can be in a first configuration and / or state in which the catheter 330 is in a first position (FIG. 5), and a user can apply a force to the proximal end portion 331 of the catheter 330 to move the catheter 330 in a distal direction toward a second position, as indicated by arrow DD in FIG. 6. Similarly, a user can articulate a portion of the catheter 330 to move the catheter 330 from the second position to or toward the first position (e.g., after use).

[0050] Although device 300 is shown and described as actuating in response to a force applied to a portion of catheter 330, in alternative embodiments, devices having a similar shape and / or configuration may include any suitable actuator configured to move and / or transition catheter 330. For example, in some embodiments, the device may include a slider or the like that may slide and / or otherwise move to move the catheter between the first and second positions. In alternative embodiments, the device may include an actuator similar to actuator 250 described above with respect to Figures 3 and 4.

[0051] For example, Figures 7 and 8 respectively show first and second configurations of a fluid transfer device 400 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 400 (also referred to herein as a "device") can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 400 can be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more portions (and / or combinations of portions) of the devices 100, 200, and / or 300 described above. For example, the device 400 can be a combination of certain portions and / or aspects of the devices 200 and 300, as described in further detail herein. Thus, portions of the device 400 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0052] The device 400 includes at least a housing 410, a catheter 430, and an actuator 450. The housing 410 can be of any suitable configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the housing 410 can be an elongated member having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. As described above with respect to the devices 100, 200, and / or 300, the housing 410 includes a first port 411 configured to receive a proximal end portion 431 of the catheter 430 and a second port 412 configured to receive a distal end portion 432 of the catheter 430. In some embodiments, the housing 410 can be similar and / or substantially identical to the housing 310 described above. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the housing 410 can be formed, shaped, and / or otherwise arranged into a bent, curved, looped, coiled, and / or helical shape or configuration. Accordingly, the housing 410 and / or aspects thereof will not be described in further detail herein.

[0053] The catheter 430 of the device 400 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 430 can be substantially similar to any of the catheters 130, 230, and / or 330 described above. For example, as described above with respect to the catheter 130, the catheter 430 can be formed from a material or combination of materials, and at least a portion of the catheter 430 can have a size, shape, diameter, thickness, and / or durometer configured to allow it to move from a first position to a second position (e.g., a position relative to the housing 410) without undesirable bending, deformation, kinking, etc. Further, in some embodiments, as described in detail above with respect to the catheter 130, the size, shape, diameter, length, and / or configuration of the catheter 430 may be based at least in part on one or more characteristics and / or aspects of an access device to which the device 400 is configured to be coupled. Accordingly, such similar portions and / or aspects of the catheter 430 will not be described in further detail herein.

[0054] At least a portion of the catheter 430 is movably disposed within the housing 410. In some embodiments, the catheter 430 is movable between a first position (FIG. 7) in which a distal end portion 432 of the catheter 430 is disposed within the housing 410, and a second position in which at least a portion of the catheter 430 extends through the second port 412 and at least a portion of the access device (not shown) to which the second port 412 is coupled. In some embodiments, the catheter 430 can have a length sufficient to position a distal surface of the catheter 430 in a desired position relative to a distal surface of the PIV when the catheter 430 is in the second position. In some embodiments, the arrangement of the housing 410 and the catheter 430 can be substantially similar to the arrangement of the housing 310 and the catheter 330 described above with respect to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0055] However, the device 400 can differ from the device 300 by including an actuator 450 that can be used to move or transition the catheter 430 between a first position and a second position. The actuator 450 can be any suitable member, mechanism, device, etc. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the actuator 450 includes a first portion 451 and a second portion 452. The actuator 450 can be coupled to the housing 410 at or near the location of the second port 412 of the housing 410 (e.g., at or near the location of the distal end portion of the housing 410). In another embodiment, the actuator 450 can be coupled to the housing 410 at any suitable location along the length of the housing 410. The actuator 450 can be coupled to the housing 410 in any suitable manner that allows the actuator 450 to rotate with respect to the housing 410. Further, the actuator 450 can be coupled to the housing 410 such that the second portion 452 is at least partially disposed within the housing 410 and can contact and / or otherwise engage the catheter 430. In this way, the actuator 450 can be substantially similar to the actuator 250 described above with respect to FIGS. 3 and 4, at least in form and / or function.

[0056] In use, the device 400 can be in a first configuration and / or state in which at least a distal end portion of the catheter 430 is disposed within the housing 410 (FIG. 7), and a user can manipulate the device 400 by engaging the first portion 451 of the actuator 450 to place the device 400 in a second configuration and / or state (FIG. 8). For example, a user can apply a force to the first portion 451 of the actuator 450 to rotate the actuator, for example, in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow EE in FIG. 8. In this manner, the second portion 452 of the actuator 450 rotates relative to the housing 410 and engages the catheter 430 to move the catheter 430 in a distal direction as indicated by arrow FF in FIG. 8. Thus, as described in detail above with respect to the device 100, when the second port 412 of the housing 410 is coupled to an access device or the like (not shown), the catheter 430 can be advanced to a desired position relative to the access device.

[0057] 9 and 10 are schematic diagrams of a first and second configuration of a fluid transfer device 500, according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 500 (also referred to herein as a "device") may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 500 may be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more parts (and / or combinations of parts) of the devices 100, 200, 300, and / or 400 described above. Thus, portions of the device 500 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0058] The device 500 includes at least a housing 510, a catheter 530, and an actuator 550. The housing 510 can be of any suitable configuration. In some embodiments, the shape of the housing 510 and / or one or more features of the housing 510 and / or the surface finish of at least one exterior surface of the housing 510 can be arranged to enhance the ergonomics of the device 500. In some examples, this allows a user to operate the device 500 with one hand (i.e., one-handed use). In some embodiments, portions and / or aspects of the housing 510 can be substantially similar to portions and / or aspects of the housings 110, 210, 310, and / or 410. As such, those portions and / or aspects of the housing 510 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0059] The housing 510 has a first port 511 and a second port 512. The ports 511 and 512 can be of any suitable configuration as described above with respect to the first port 111 and the second port 112, respectively. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the first port 511 extends, for example, from a proximal end or proximal side of the housing 510, and the second port 512 extends, for example, from a distal end or distal side (e.g., opposite the proximal end or proximal side) of the housing 510. The first port 511 is configured to fixedly or movably receive and / or couple a proximal end portion 531 of the catheter 530. The second port 512 is configured to movably receive a distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530. Additionally, as described above, the second port 512 can be a locking mechanism and / or coupler configured to couple the device 500 to an access device, such as, for example, a PIV 505 (e.g., an indwelling PIV), or the like.

[0060] The catheter 530 of the device 500 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 530 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to any of the catheters 130, 230, 330, and / or 430 described above. As such, those similar portions and / or aspects of the catheter 530 may not be described in further detail herein. For example, as described above with respect to the catheter 130, in the embodiment shown in Figures 9 and 10, the catheter 530 can be formed from any suitable material as described herein. Similarly, the catheter 530 can have any suitable diameter configured to allow at least a portion of the catheter 530 to move through the second port 512 without undesirably bending, deforming, kinking, etc. Also, as described above with respect to the catheter 130, it can have any suitable length, which can be based at least in part on one or more characteristics of the access device (e.g., PIV 505) to which the device 500 is coupled.

[0061] 9 and 10, the catheter 530 defines a lumen extending through a proximal end portion 531 and a distal end portion 532. The proximal end portion 531 of the catheter 530 includes and / or is coupled to a coupler 533 (e.g., Luer Lok™, etc.) configured to physically and fluidly couple the catheter 530 to any suitable device and / or reservoir (e.g., a syringe, a fluid reservoir, a sample reservoir, an exhaust container, a fluid source, etc.). As described in more detail herein, in some examples, the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 is configured to be inserted into and / or through at least a portion of the indwelling PIV 505 and into a portion of the patient's body.

[0062] At least a portion of the catheter 530 is movably disposed within the housing 510. In some embodiments, the catheter 530, or a portion thereof, can be moved (e.g., via rotational movement of the actuator 550) between a first position in which a distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 is disposed within the housing 510 (FIG. 9) and / or the second port 512, and a second position in which at least a portion of the catheter 530 extends through the second port 512 and at least a portion of the PIV 505 (FIG. 10). In some embodiments, the catheter 530 can have a length sufficient to position a distal surface of the catheter 530 relative to a distal surface of the PIV 505 when the catheter 530 is in the second position. In other words, the length of the catheter 530 can be sufficient to define a predetermined, desired, and / or threshold distance between a distal surface of the catheter 530 and a distal surface of the PIV 505 when the catheter 530 is in the second position. In some examples, as described in detail above with respect to catheter 130, the distal surface of catheter 530 can be positioned at a predetermined, desired, and / or threshold distance from the distal surface of PIV 505, for example, to position the distal surface of catheter 530 at a desired location within the vein.

[0063] In some embodiments, the length of the catheter 530 can be greater than the length of the housing 510 and / or greater than the length of at least a line or axis defined between the first port 511 and the second port 512 of the housing 510. In some embodiments, the length of the catheter 530 can be many times greater than the length of the housing 510. For example, as described above with respect to the catheter 130, the catheter 530 can be disposed within the housing 510 in a convoluted or coiled arrangement that includes one or more complete coils (e.g., 360° rotations) of the catheter 530 around at least a portion of the actuator 550 disposed within the housing 510. Although not shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, in some embodiments, as described in more detail herein, one or more portions, sections, ends, etc. of the catheter 530 can be coupled to a portion of the actuator 550, such that at least a portion of the catheter 530 can be convoluted, spooled, coiled, etc. around a portion of the actuator 550. In some embodiments, the housing 510 can include, form, and / or define a circular portion about a shaft associated with the actuator 550, within which at least a portion of the catheter 530 can be convoluted or coiled about the shaft of the circular portion to form one or more 360° rotations (e.g., one full rotation, at least one full rotation and any suitable portion of a full rotation, or multiple full rotations).

[0064] The portion of the catheter 530 disposed within the housing 510 can have any suitable length. For example, as discussed above with respect to the device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the length of the catheter 530 can be several times the length of the housing 510 without increasing the length of the housing 510. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a convoluted or coiled configuration of the catheter 530 can result in a taut or supported configuration of the catheter 530, which can reduce the portion of the catheter 530 that is unsupported within the housing 510. Such an arrangement can, for example, reduce the likelihood of undesirable kinking, bending, bowing, deflection, deformation, etc. of a portion of the catheter 530 as the catheter 530 is moved between the first and second positions. In other words, reducing the unsupported length of the catheter 530 can increase the "pushability" of the catheter 530 (e.g., the ability to advance without undesirable conformational changes) from the first position to the second position. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, in some embodiments, the housing 510 can include one or more internal structures 514, such as one or more walls, partitions, protrusions, ridges, ribs, channels, rollers, etc., configured to support and / or guide the catheter 530. Although the internal structures 514 are specifically shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, any other portion of the housing and / or device can include support structures that can function as fences, posts, ribs, bumpers, etc., configured to support the catheter as it is "pushed" and / or otherwise moved (e.g., advanced, retracted, etc.). In some embodiments, the support structures can be positioned in the direction of an axial force applied along the catheter. In some embodiments, the support structures can be positioned, for example, tangential to the force exerted and / or the movement or rotation of the catheter (or a portion thereof).

[0065] The actuator 550 of the device 500 can have any suitable shape, dimensions, and / or configuration. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the actuator 550 is movably coupled to the housing 510. The actuator 550 includes a first portion 551 (e.g., a linkage portion) disposed outside the housing 510 and a second portion 552 (e.g., a shaft portion) disposed within the housing 510 and configured to engage and / or otherwise contact a portion of the catheter 530. The first portion 551 of the actuator 550 can be arranged as a rotary switch, a rotary button, a tab, a knob, a dial, or the like. The second portion 552 of the actuator 550 can be, for example, a relatively high-rigidity sleeve, tube, rod, shaft, drum, spool, and / or the like. The second portion 552 can be substantially cylindrical and / or can have a circular cross-sectional shape and can have any suitable radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the second portion 552 of the actuator 550 can include and / or define channels, passages, and / or the like that can wind up a portion of the catheter 530.

[0066] In some embodiments, the catheter 530 is spooled around the second portion 552 (e.g., shaft portion) in or along a path at least partially formed or defined by the second portion 552 of the actuator 550. In some embodiments, a portion of the catheter 530 is disposed in a passageway and / or lumen operably coupled to the second portion 552 of the actuator 550 such that rotational motion of the actuator 550 results in rotational motion of at least a portion of the catheter 530 in a convoluted or coiled form about the second portion 552. Such an arrangement then results in spooling (or unwinding), coiling (or unwinding), winding (or unwinding), etc. of at least a portion of the catheter 530, thereby moving and / or transitioning the catheter 530 between the first position (FIG. 9) and the second position (FIG. 10). In some embodiments, the catheter 530 can have two portions (or the device can include two catheters), which allows for the catheter 530 to be coupled to the second portion 552 of the actuator 550. For example, in some embodiments, the proximal end portion 531 of the catheter 530 can be a first section or first catheter that is fixedly coupled to a first port 511 of the housing 510, coupled to a port of the actuator 550, or the like (not shown). Similarly, an intermediate portion of the catheter 530 (or an end of a second catheter) can be coupled to a port of the actuator 550 and in fluid communication with the proximal end portion 531 of the catheter 530. In such embodiments, coupling the intermediate portion of the catheter 530 to the actuator 550 can cause a portion of the catheter 530 to be wrapped or wrapped around the second portion 552 of the actuator 550. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 9, the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 can extend from the second portion 552 of the actuator 550 to the second port 512.

[0067] In some embodiments, the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 can be at least partially disposed and / or otherwise aligned within the second port 512 such that rotation of the actuator 550 and the portion of the catheter 530 that is wrapped and / or wrapped around the second portion 552 of the actuator 550 can result in substantially linear movement of the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 relative to, within, and / or through the second port 512. Additionally, one or more internal structures 514 of the housing 510 can support and / or guide at least a portion of the catheter 530 as the catheter 530 is moved and / or transitioned between the first and second positions. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the second portion 552 can be such that the portion of the catheter 530 can move and / or transition between the first and second positions without kinking, bending, binding, and / or other undesirable deformation.

[0068] 9 and 10, in some embodiments, the exterior surface of the housing 510 and / or a surface defining at least a portion thereof can include and / or form a set of ribs, ridges, bumps, notches, etc., configured to contact a surface of the actuator 550. In such embodiments, as the actuator 550 rotates relative to the housing 510, the surface of the actuator 550 can move along the ribs, etc. In this manner, the movement can result in a tactile and / or audible output that can provide a user with an indication, etc., associated with the amount of relative rotation of the actuator 550 and / or the corresponding amount of relative movement (e.g., linear movement) of the catheter 530. In some embodiments, the arrangement of the ribs, etc. and the actuator 550 can function, for example, as a friction system, etc., that can hold the actuator 550 (and thus the catheter 530) in a substantially fixed rotational and / or angular position in the absence of an external force (e.g., a user-applied torque or rotational force) applied to the actuator 550.

[0069] The arrangement of device 500 is such that movement of actuator 550 (e.g., first portion 551 and second portion 552 collectively) about an axis defined within housing 510 and / or otherwise relative movement of actuator 550 with respect to housing 510 advances a portion of catheter 530 along and / or through a path defined within housing 510. For example, when device 500 is in a first configuration (or first state) (FIG. 9), rotation of actuator 550 in a clockwise direction moves catheter 530 from a first position and a second position (FIG. 10). In some embodiments, the proximal end portion 531 of the catheter 530, which is connected between the first port 511 and the second portion 552 of the actuator 550, and the intermediate portion of the catheter 530 (and / or any other suitable portion) which is connected to and at least partially wrapped or wound around the second portion 552 of the actuator 550, advances a portion of the catheter 530, for example, along and / or through a path (not shown) defined within the housing 510, by rotating the actuator 550, thereby moving the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 relative to the second port 512 and / or an access device (e.g., a PIV 505) connected thereto.

[0070] As previously discussed, the arrangement of the device 500 results in moving the actuator 550 an angular amount or distance (e.g., a rotational amount) to move the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 a linear amount or distance. In other words, a linear displacement (e.g., translation) of the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 is achieved by an angular displacement (e.g., rotation) of the actuator 550. In some embodiments, the ratio of angular displacement to linear displacement can be predetermined. For example, the device 500 can be pre-set so that a known number of rotations or fractions of a rotation (e.g., ½ rotation, 1 rotation, 10 rotations, etc.) results in a known amount of advancement of the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530. In some embodiments, the device 500 can be configured with mechanical advantage, gearing, to provide a “length multiplication” and / or “displacement multiplication” effect, such that a relatively small amount of rotation of the actuator 550 results in a relatively large amount of translation of the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530. When accessing a vein or the like via the PIV 505, linear displacement of at least the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 can be sufficient to position a distal face of the catheter 530 in a desired position relative to a distal face of the PIV 505, regardless of the type and / or length of the PIV 505. For example, in some instances it may be desirable to position the distal face of the catheter 530 distally relative to the distal face of the PIV 505. In such instances, the arrangement of the device 500 can be such that the housing 510 has a compact, limited, and / or reduced length while at the same time the catheter 530 has a sufficient length to extend beyond the distal end of the PIV 505.

[0071] While the actuator 550 and catheter 530 arrangement has been described above as being used to, for example, multiply the amount of distal end portion displacement for a given angular displacement of the actuator, in some embodiments the arrangement may also reduce the amount of force associated with advancing the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530. For example, in some embodiments, a mechanical advantage, gearing, or the like may be such that the distal end portion 532 of the catheter 530 is advanced in response to application of a reduced amount of force to the actuator 550. In some embodiments, a reduction in the amount of force associated with advancing the catheter 530 may reduce and / or limit damage to the catheter 530 and / or other structures (e.g., the vein wall or portions of the PIV 505) that may otherwise result from impacting the distal face of the catheter 530 against an obstacle or the like.

[0072] In FIGS. 9 and 10, the housing 510 is shown as including one or more internal structures 514 configured to support, guide, and / or direct at least a portion of the catheter 530 as it moves between the first and second positions. However, in alternative embodiments, the device may include a housing having any suitable internal structure capable of supporting, guiding, and / or directing at least a portion of the catheter. For example, FIGS. 11-13 show a fluid transfer device 600 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 600 (also referred to herein as the "device") may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 600 may be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more portions (and / or combinations of portions) of the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, and / or 500 described above. Thus, portions of the device 600 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0073] The device 600 includes a housing 610, a catheter 630, and an actuator 650. The housing 610 includes and / or houses at least a portion of the catheter 630 that is arranged in at least a partially spiral, looped, and / or coiled configuration. The housing 610 includes a first port 611 configured to fixedly receive the proximal end portion 631 of the catheter 630 and a second port 612 configured to movably receive the distal end portion 632 of the catheter 630. The ports 611 and 612 can be of any suitable configuration, such as any of the configurations described above.

[0074] As described above with respect to the housing 510, the housing 610 can include one or more internal structures 614 configured to support, guide, and / or direct at least a portion of the catheter 630 disposed within the housing 610. More specifically, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 11-13, the internal structure 614 can be, for example, a cylindrical wall, a drum, a protrusion, a ridge, and / or the like. The internal structure 614 can be configured to provide a structure and / or axis around which at least a portion of the catheter 630 is wound, looped, and / or wrapped. Thereby, at least a portion of the catheter 630 can be supported as the catheter 630 moves between the first position and the second position, as described in more detail herein.

[0075] Catheter 630 of device 600 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, catheter 630 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to any of catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, and / or 530 described above. Accordingly, such similar portions and / or aspects of catheter 630 may not be described in further detail herein. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11-13, catheter 630 can be formed from any suitable material and can have any suitable length, diameter, and / or configuration as described above with respect to catheter 130.

[0076] As discussed above, the catheter 630, or a portion thereof, can be moved (e.g., via rotational movement of the actuator 650) between a first position (FIGS. 11 and 12) in which a distal end portion 632 of the catheter 630 is disposed within the housing 610 and / or the second port 612, and a second position (FIG. 13) in which at least a portion of the catheter 630 extends through the second port 612 and at least a portion of the access device coupled to the second port 612. In some embodiments, as discussed in detail above with respect to the catheter 130, the catheter 630 can have a length sufficient to position a distal face of the catheter 630 a predetermined distance, a desired distance, and / or at least a threshold distance beyond the distal face of the access device when the catheter 630 is in the second position.

[0077] The actuator 650 of the device 600 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, as shown in FIGS. 11-13, the actuator 650 includes a first portion 651 and a second portion 652. The actuator 650 can be coupled to the housing 610 at or near the second port 612 of the housing 610 (e.g., at or near a distal end portion of the housing 610). In another embodiment, the actuator 650 can be coupled to the housing 610 at any suitable location along the length of the housing 610. The actuator 650 can be coupled to the housing 610 in any suitable manner that allows the actuator 650 to rotate relative to the housing 610. Additionally, the actuator 650 can be coupled to the housing 610 such that the second portion 652 is at least partially disposed within the housing 610 and engages and / or otherwise contacts a portion of the catheter 630. As such, the actuator 650 can be substantially similar, at least in form and / or function, to the actuator 250 described above with respect to FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0078] In use, the device 600 can be in a first configuration and / or a first state in which a distal end portion of the catheter 630 is disposed within the housing 610 and / or the second port 612 (FIGS. 11 and 12), and a user can manipulate the device 600 by engaging the first portion 651 of the actuator 650 to place the device 600 in a second configuration and / or a second state (FIG. 13). For example, a user can apply a force to the first portion 651 of the actuator 650 to rotate the actuator 650 in a clockwise direction as shown by arrow GG in FIG. 13. In this manner, the second portion 652 of the actuator 650 rotates relative to the housing 610 and engages the catheter 630 to move the catheter 630 in a distal direction from the first position towards the second position as shown by arrow HH in FIG. Thus, upon coupling the second port 612 of the housing 610 to an access device or the like (not shown), the catheter 630 can be advanced to a desired position relative to the access device, as described in detail above with respect to the device 100. Additionally, in some examples, the catheter 630 can be configured to transfer fluid (e.g., bodily fluid, medicinal fluid, saline, etc.) via the catheter 630 between a patient and a fluid source or fluid reservoir connected to the proximal end portion 631 of the catheter 630, such as via a coupler 633. In some examples, once a desired volume of fluid has been transferred through the catheter 630, the user can rotate the actuator 650, for example in a counterclockwise direction, to retract and / or move the catheter 630 from the second position to the first position.

[0079] 14 and 15 are schematic diagrams of a first and second configuration of a fluid transfer device 700 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 700 (also referred to herein as a "device") may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 700 may be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more portions (and / or combinations of portions) of the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and / or 600 described above. More specifically, the device 700 may be substantially similar, at least in form and / or function, to the device 500 described above in connection with FIGS. 9 and 10. Thus, portions of the device 700 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0080] The device 700 includes at least a housing 710, a catheter 730, and an actuator 750. The housing 710 can be of any suitable configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the housing 710 can have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the housing 710 can be substantially similar in form and / or function to the housing 510 described above. For example, the housing 710 includes a first port 711 and a second port 712. The ports 711 and 712 can be of any suitable configuration, such as those described above in connection with the first port 511 and the second port 512, respectively. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the first port 711 is configured to fixedly receive and / or couple a proximal end portion 731 of the catheter 730. The second port 712 is configured to movably receive a distal end portion 732 of the catheter 730. Additionally, as discussed above, the second port 712 can be a locking mechanism and / or coupler configured to couple, for example, the device 700 to an access device such as a PIV 705 (eg, an indwelling PIV).

[0081] However, the housing 710 may differ from the housing 510 with respect to the arrangement and / or placement of the first port 711. For example, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the first port 711 may be located at a center or central portion of the housing 710. However, in alternative embodiments, the first port 711 may be located at other suitable locations along the housing 710. Additionally, as described in further detail herein, the housing 710 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the actuator 750 such that the housing 710 and a portion of the actuator 750 collectively define a channel 715 configured to receive at least a portion of the catheter 730. Although the channel 715 is shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 as being substantially circular and disposed adjacent an outer wall of the housing 710, it should be understood that the channel 715 may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration.

[0082] The catheter 730 of the device 700 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 730 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to any of the catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, and / or 630 described above. Accordingly, such similar portions and / or aspects of the catheter 730 may not be described in further detail herein. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 14 and 15, the catheter 730 can be formed from any suitable material and can have any suitable length, diameter, and / or configuration as described above in connection with the catheter 130.

[0083] At least a portion of the catheter 730 is movably disposed within the housing 710. In some embodiments, the catheter 730, or a portion thereof, can be moved (e.g., via rotational movement of the actuator 750) between a first position (FIG. 14) in which a distal end portion 732 of the catheter 730 is disposed within the housing 710 and / or the second port 712, and a second position (FIG. 15) in which at least a portion of the catheter 730 extends through the second port 712 and at least a portion of an access device coupled to the second port 712. As described in detail above, in some embodiments, the catheter 730 can have a length sufficient to position a distal face of the catheter 730 a predetermined distance, a desired distance, and / or at least a threshold distance beyond a distal face of the access device when the catheter 730 is in the second position. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the catheter 730 can be disposed within the housing 710 and can engage at least a portion of the actuator 750 in a manner similar to the catheter 530 described in detail above. Accordingly, the arrangement of the catheter 730 will not be described in further detail herein.

[0084] The actuator 750 of the device 700 may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the actuator 750 is movably coupled to the housing 710 and has a spool structure 754. The spool structure 754 is at least partially disposed within the housing 710 and configured such that a portion of the housing 710 defines the channel 715, as described above. Additionally, the spool structure 754 is coupled to at least a portion of the catheter 730 (e.g., the proximal end portion 731 of the catheter 730). Although not shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, in some embodiments, the spool structure 754 may include a portion disposed outside the housing 710 and configured to be engaged by a user to rotate the spool structure 754 (and / or the actuator 750) relative to the housing 710. Thus, the actuator 750 may be substantially similar, at least in form and / or function, to the actuator 550 described in detail above in connection with FIGS. 9 and 10. Thus, the actuator 750 will not be described in further detail herein.

[0085] In some embodiments, the catheter 730 is disposed within the channel 715 and wound around a spool structure 754 of the actuator 750. In this manner, rotational motion of the actuator 750 results in rotational motion of at least a portion of the catheter 730, which is convoluted or coiled around the spool structure 754. Such an arrangement, in turn, results in spooling (or unwinding), coiling (or unwinding), winding (or unwinding), etc., of at least a portion of the catheter 730, thereby moving and / or transitioning the catheter 730 between a first position and a second position. In some embodiments, the distal end portion 732 of the catheter 730 is at least partially disposed within and / or otherwise aligned with the second port 712, such that rotation of the actuator 750 and a portion of the catheter 730 enables substantially linear movement of the distal end portion 732 of the catheter 730 relative to the second port 712, substantially linear movement of the distal end portion 732 of the catheter 730 within the second port, and / or substantially linear movement of the distal end portion 732 of the catheter 730 through the second port.

[0086] In use, the device 700 can be in a first configuration or state (FIG. 14), and a user can engage and / or manipulate the device 700 by rotating the actuator 750, thereby transitioning the device from the first configuration or state to a second configuration or state (FIG. 15). More specifically, a user can rotate the actuator 750 (and thus the spool structure 754) in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow II in FIG. 15. Rotation of the actuator 750 moves the catheter 730 from the first position to the second position. With the proximal end portion 731 of the catheter 730 fixedly coupled to the first port 711 and the distal end portion 732 of the catheter 730 configured to move relative to the housing 710, rotation of the actuator 750, for example, advances a portion of the catheter 730 along and / or through the channel 715, which in turn moves the distal end portion 732 of the catheter 730 relative to the second port 712 and / or an access device coupled thereto, as shown by arrows JJ in Figure 15. In this manner, the device 700 can be substantially similar, at least in form and / or function, to the device 500 described in detail above.

[0087] Although the device 700 shown in Figures 14 and 15 has been described as being actuated and / or used by rotating an actuator 750, and more specifically, a spool structure 754, in another embodiment, the device may include any number of actuators and / or actuator portions that may function collectively to move and / or transition the catheter 730 between a first and a second position. For example, Figures 16 and 17 each show a first and second configuration of a fluid transfer device 800 according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the device 800 may be substantially similar in structure and / or function to the device 700, except for including one or more additional actuators and / or actuator portions.

[0088] Fluid transfer device 800 (also referred to herein as "device") can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of device 800 can be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more portions (and / or combinations of portions) of devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, and / or 700 described above. For example, device 800 can be a combination of certain portions and / or aspects of devices 200 and 700, as described in more detail herein. Thus, portions of device 800 may not be described in more detail herein.

[0089] The device 800 includes at least a housing 810, a catheter 830, and an actuator 850. The housing 810 can be of any suitable configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the housing 810 can have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the housing 810 can be substantially similar in form and / or function to the housing 710 described above. For example, the housing 810 includes a first port 811 configured to fixedly couple to a proximal end portion 831 of the catheter 830, and a second port 812 configured to receive a distal end portion 832 of the catheter 830, as described above in connection with the device 700. Thus, the housing 810 and / or aspects thereof will not be described in further detail herein.

[0090] The catheter 830 of the device 800 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 830 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to any of the catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, and / or 730 described above. Accordingly, such similar portions and / or aspects of the catheter 830 may not be described in further detail herein. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 16 and 17, the catheter 630 can be formed from any suitable material and can have any suitable length, diameter, and / or configuration as described above with respect to the catheter 130.

[0091] At least a portion of the catheter 830 is movably disposed within the housing 810. In some embodiments, the catheter 830, or a portion thereof, can be moved (e.g., via rotational movement of the actuator 850) between a first position (FIG. 16) in which a distal end portion 832 of the catheter 830 is disposed within the housing 810 and / or the second port 812, and a second position (FIG. 17) in which at least a portion of the catheter 830 extends through the second port 812 and at least a portion of an access device coupled to the second port 812. In some embodiments, as described in detail above, the catheter 830 can have a length sufficient to position a distal face of the catheter 830 a predetermined distance, a desired distance, and / or at least a threshold distance beyond a distal face of the access device when the catheter 830 is in the second position. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the catheter 830 can be disposed within the housing 810 and can engage at least a portion of the actuator 850 in a manner similar to the catheter 730 described in detail above. Accordingly, the arrangement of the catheter 830 will not be described in further detail herein.

[0092] The actuator 850 of the device 800 can have any suitable shape, dimensions, and / or configuration. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the actuator 850 is movably coupled to the housing 810 and has a spool structure 854 that is movably coupled to the housing 810. The spool structure 854 is at least partially disposed within the housing 810 and is configured to define a channel 815 with a portion of the housing 810. Further, the spool structure 854 is coupled to at least a portion of the catheter 830 (e.g., the proximal end portion 831 of the catheter 830). In this way, the spool structure 854 can be substantially similar to the spool structure 754 described above with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0093] However, the actuator 850 can differ from the actuator 750 by including a second actuator 850A. The second actuator 850A includes a first portion 851 and a second portion 852. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the second actuator 850A can be used to move or transition the catheter 830 between a first position and a second position. The second actuator 850A can be coupled to the housing 810 at or near the location of the second port 812 of the housing 810 (e.g., at or near the location of the distal end portion of the housing 810). The second actuator 850A can be coupled to the housing 810 in any suitable manner that allows the second actuator 850A to rotate relative to the housing 810. Further, the second portion 852 of the second actuator 850A is at least partially disposed within the housing 810 and is capable of contacting and / or otherwise engaging the catheter 830. In this way, the second actuator 850A can be substantially similar to the actuator 250 described above in connection with FIGS. 3 and 4, at least in form and / or function.

[0094] In use, the second actuator 850A can be rotated relative to the housing 810 to advance the catheter 830 from a first position to a second position. Rotation of the first portion 851 of the actuator 850 in a clockwise direction (indicated by arrow KK in FIG. 17 ) advances a portion of the catheter 830 engaged with the second portion 852 of the actuator 850 (e.g., depending on frictional forces therebetween). Advancement of the portion of the catheter 830, in turn, provides a traction force on the portion of the catheter 830 disposed within the portion of the channel 815 defined by the spool structure 854 and the housing 810. In this manner, the spool structure 854 is likewise rotated in a clockwise direction, thereby gradually releasing the portion of the catheter 830 disposed within the portion of the channel 815. Thus, actuation and / or rotation of the second actuator 850A advances at least the distal end portion 832 of the catheter 830 in or along a linear path through the second port 812 of the housing 810, as indicated by arrow LL in FIG. 17 .

[0095] In FIGS. 16 and 17, the catheter 830 is shown as being at least partially wound around the spool structure 854 (e.g., around the outside of the spool structure 854). However, in another embodiment, the device may include an actuator having a spool structure configured to engage the catheter in any suitable manner. For example, FIGS. 18-20 show a device 900 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 900 (also referred to herein as the "device") may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 900 may be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more portions (and / or combinations of portions) of the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, and / or 800 described above. Thus, portions of the device 900 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0096] Device 900 includes at least a housing 910, a catheter 930, and an actuator 950. The housing 910 can be of any suitable configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the housing 910 can have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the housing 910 can be substantially similar in form and / or function to the aforementioned housings 710 and / or 810. For example, the housing 910 includes a first port 911 configured to connect and / or otherwise receive the proximal end portion 931 of the catheter 930, and a second port 912 configured to receive the distal end portion 932 of the catheter 930. In some embodiments, the first port 911 can be configured to fixedly connect to the proximal end portion 931 of the catheter 930 as described above in relation to devices 700 and / or 800. Thus, the housing 910 and / or its aspects are not described in further detail herein.

[0097] The catheter 930 of device 900 can be of any suitable shape, dimension, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 930 can be substantially similar in form and / or function to any of the aforementioned catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, and / or 830. Thus, such similar parts and / or aspects of the catheter 930 need not be described in further detail herein. For example, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 18-20, the catheter 930 can be formed from any suitable material and can have any suitable length, diameter, and / or configuration as described above in relation to the catheter 130.

[0098] At least a portion of the catheter 930 is movably disposed within the housing 910. In some embodiments, the catheter 930, or a portion thereof, can be moved (e.g., via rotational movement of the actuator 950) between a first position ( FIG. 18 ) in which a distal end portion 932 of the catheter 930 is disposed within the housing 910 and / or the second port 912, and a second position ( FIG. 20 ) in which at least a portion of the catheter 930 extends through the second port 912 and at least a portion of an access device (not shown) coupled to the second port 912. In some embodiments, the catheter 930 can have a length sufficient to position a distal face of the catheter 930 a predetermined distance, a desired distance, and / or at least a threshold distance beyond a distal face of the access device when the catheter 930 is in the second position, as described in detail above. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the catheter 930 is disposed within the housing 910 and can be engaged with at least a portion of the actuator 950, as described in more detail herein.

[0099] The actuator 950 of the device 900 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 18-20, the actuator 950 has a spool structure 954 movably coupled to a housing 910. The spool structure 954 can couple, receive, and / or otherwise engage at least a portion of the catheter 930 (e.g., a proximal end portion 931 of the catheter 930) to move the catheter 930 between a first position and a second position, as described in further detail herein. As shown, for example, in FIG. 18, the spool structure 954 is at least partially disposed within the housing 910 such that the spool structure 954 and the housing 910 collectively define an outer channel 915. More specifically, the spool structure 954 can be sized and positioned within the housing 910 such that an exterior or outer portion and / or surface of the spool structure 954 is spaced apart from an interior or inner portion and / or surface (e.g., an inner periphery) of the housing 910. This space then forms and / or defines an outer channel 915 configured to receive at least a portion of a catheter 930, as described in further detail herein.

[0100] The spool structure 954 includes a set of engagement structures 957 configured to selectively engage a portion of the catheter 910 within the housing 930. More specifically, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 18-20, the set of engagement structures 957 includes a pair of engagement structures 957 that can have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 18-20, the engagement structures 957 can have substantially the same size and / or shape, such as, for example, teardrop shaped. The engagement structures 957 can be arranged in a mirrored arrangement relative to one another to define an inner channel 958 or pathway between the pair of engagement structures 957 configured to movably receive a portion of the catheter 930. The inner channel 958 can be, for example, a serpentine, circutous, tortuous, and / or otherwise curved or non-linear channel or pathway that corresponds at least in part to a size and / or shape of a portion of the engagement structures 957.

[0101] The catheter 930 is disposed within the housing 910 such that a portion of the catheter 930 is disposed within at least one of the outer channel 915 and / or the inner channel 958 and configured to advance therethrough (e.g., via the housing 910) in response to actuation of the actuator 950. For example, FIG. 18 illustrates the device 900 in a first configuration and / or state in which the catheter 930 is in a first position. As illustrated, when the catheter 930 is in the first position, a portion of the catheter 930 can extend from the first port 911, through at least a portion of the outer channel 915, through the inner channel 958, and at least partially into the second port 912. As illustrated in FIGS. 18-20, rotation of the spool structure 954 rotates the engagement structure 957 (and the inner channel 958) relative to the first port 911 and the second port 912 of the housing 910.

[0102] 18 , when the device 900 is in the first configuration and / or first state, the catheter 930 is arranged such that a proximal end portion 931 of the catheter 930 extends from the first port 911 and is disposed within and / or passes through a first portion of the outer channel 915, an intermediate portion of the catheter 930 is disposed within and passes through the inner channel 958, and a third portion of the catheter 930 is disposed within and passes through a second portion of the outer channel 915 such that a distal end portion 932 of the catheter 930 is at least partially disposed within the second port 912 of the housing 910. In this manner, while the inner channel 958 is at least partially aligned with at least one of the first port 911 and / or the second port 912, the catheter 930 passes around one of the engagement structures 957 prior to introduction and / or placement within the inner channel 958. In this position and / or orientation, the path that catheter 930 extends between the first port 911 and the second port 912 is, for example, the longest or substantially the longest path between the first port 911 and the second port 912. Thus, when device 900 is in the first configuration and / or first state (e.g., when catheter 930 is in the first position), a maximum or substantially maximum portion of catheter 930 is disposed within housing 910.

[0103] As shown in Fig. 19, the device 900 can be transitioned from the first configuration and / or first state by rotating the actuator 950 in a counterclockwise direction as indicated by arrow MM in Fig. 19. Rotation of the actuator 950 results in rotation of the engagement structure 957, which changes a portion of the outer channel 915 disposed between the first port 911 and a first end portion of the inner channel 958 and a portion of the outer channel 915 disposed between the second port 912 and a second end portion of the inner channel 958 opposite the first end portion. More specifically, the portion of the outer channel 915 is reduced, which can be operated to advance the catheter 930 from its first position toward its second position through a serpentine, circuitous, tortuous, and / or otherwise curved or non-linear path collectively formed and / or defined by the outer channel 915 and the inner channel 958.

[0104] 20, the actuator 950 can be actuated (e.g., rotated) a predetermined and / or desired amount to place the device 900 in a second configuration and / or state in which the catheter 930 is in a second position. More specifically, in some embodiments, rotation of the actuator 950 can place the device 900 in the second configuration and / or state when an end of the inner channel 958 is at least partially aligned with the first port 911 or the second port 912. In this position and / or orientation, the inner channel 958 can, for example, define a shortest path through the housing 910 between the first port 911 and the second port 912. As illustrated, when the device 900 is in the second configuration and / or state, the catheter 930 extends along a path such that a minimum or substantially minimum portion of the catheter is disposed within the housing 910. As discussed in detail above in connection with previous embodiments, the arrangement of device 900 allows for a length or "reach" of catheter 930 that can be longer than, for example, the housing 910 and / or the length of the housing 910 between the first port 911 and the second port 912. Thus, when the second port 912 of the housing 910 is coupled to an access device or the like (not shown), the catheter 930 can be advanced to a desired location relative to the access device, regardless of the type and / or length of the access device, as discussed in detail above in connection with device 100.

[0105] 21-23 show a fluid transfer device 1000 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 1000 (also referred to herein as "device") may be similar and / or substantially identical to the device 900 described above in relation to Figures 18-20. Thus, although parts and / or aspects of the device 1000 are identified below, such parts and / or aspects may not be described in further detail.

[0106] As shown, the apparatus 1000 includes a housing 1010, a catheter 1030, and an actuator 1050. The housing 1010 can be substantially similar to the housing 910 described in detail above. For example, the housing 1010 includes a first port 1011 that can be fixedly coupled to the proximal end portion 1031 of the catheter 1030 and a second port 1012 that can movably receive the distal end portion 1032 of the catheter 1030. The catheter 1030 can be substantially similar to the catheter 930 described in detail above. For example, as shown in FIG. 23, the catheter 1030 is at least partially disposed within the housing 1010, configured to be engaged by at least a portion of the actuator 1050, and / or configured to be disposed within a space, one or more channels, one or more lumens, one or more volumes, etc., collectively defined by the housing 1010, the actuator 1050, and / or the housing 1010 and the actuator 1050, as further described in detail herein.

[0107] In some embodiments, the catheter 1030 can be formed of a single material and can have a predetermined length, diameter, and / or configuration as described above in connection with the catheter 130. In other embodiments, the catheter 1030 can be formed of heterogeneous materials and / or can have different sizes, shapes, diameters, thicknesses, etc. to provide any suitable stiffness, flexibility, hardness, and / or durometer. For example, the proximal end portion 1031 of the catheter 1030 can be formed of a relatively flexible material that can deform in response to sudden changes in pressure to reduce the likelihood of the catheter 1030 collapsing at a location downstream from the proximal end portion. The distal end portion 1032 of the catheter can be formed of a relatively stiff material, or at least a material having a stiffness and / or rigidity greater than the stiffness and / or rigidity of the proximal end portion 1031. The distal end portion 1032 of the catheter can have a smaller diameter than the diameter of the proximal end portion 1031 to facilitate advancing the catheter 1030 to and from a desired location relative to the PIV. In some embodiments, the proximal end portion 1031 and the distal end portion 1032 of the catheter 1030 can be separate components having different lengths, diameters, stiffness, flexibility, materials, and / or configurations, which can be mechanically and fluidly connected using an adapter 1034 disposed within the first port 1011, as shown in FIGS.

[0108] The actuator 1050 may be substantially similar to the actuator 950 described in detail above. For example, the actuator 1050 includes a spool structure 1054 having a pair of engagement structures 1057 arranged in a mirror orientation relative to one another such that an inner channel 1058 or pathway is defined therebetween. In some embodiments, the actuator 1050 may include a tube, guide, sheath, and / or the like disposed within the inner channel 1058 and configured to support and guide the catheter 1030, limiting and / or substantially preventing undesired deformation and / or deflection of a portion of the catheter 1030 as the device is transitioned between a first configuration and a second configuration. In some embodiments, one or more surfaces of the actuator 1050 and / or the spool structure 1054 may selectively contact and / or otherwise support the catheter 1030 as the portion of the catheter is moved through the housing.

[0109] As discussed above in connection with device 900, device 1000 is configured to transition from a first configuration and / or first state ( FIG. 21 ) in response to rotation of actuator 1050, as indicated by arrow NN. When device 1000 is in the first configuration and / or first state, catheter 1030 is configured to be in a first position such that a maximum or substantially maximum portion or length of catheter 1030 is disposed within housing 1010 between first port 1011 and second port 1012.

[0110] In some examples, a user can rotate the actuator 1050 to place the device 1000 in a second configuration and / or second state (FIG. 22). When the device 1000 is in the second configuration and / or second state, the catheter 1030 is configured to be in a second position such that a minimum or substantially minimum portion or length of the catheter 1030 is disposed within the housing 1010 between the first port 1011 and the second port 1012. Additionally, as described in detail above, when the catheter 1030 is in the second position, the distal end portion 1032 of the catheter 1030 can be disposed in a desired position (e.g., a distal position) relative to the second port 1012 and / or an access device coupled to the second port 1012.

[0111] Although the engagement structures 957 and / or 1057 are illustrated and described as being substantially the same size, shape, and / or configuration and arranged in a mirror orientation with respect to each other, in another embodiment, the spool structure can include a set of engagement structures, where each engagement structure can have any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, FIGS. 24 and 25 show a fluid transfer device 1100 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 1100 (also referred to herein as a "device") can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 1100 can be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more portions (and / or combinations of portions) of the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, and / or 1000 (or any suitable combination thereof) described above. Thus, portions of the device 1100 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0112] The device 1100 includes at least a housing 1110, a catheter 1130, and an actuator 1150. The housing 1110 can be of any suitable configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the housing 1110 can have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the housing 1110 can be substantially similar in form and / or function to the housings 910 and / or 1010 described above. For example, the housing 1110 includes a first port 1111 configured to couple to and / or otherwise receive the proximal end portion 1131 of the catheter 1130, and a second port 1112 configured to receive the distal end portion 1132 of the catheter 1130. In some embodiments, the first port 1111 can be configured to fixedly couple to the proximal end portion 1131 of the catheter 1130, as described above in connection with the device 900. Accordingly, the housing 1110 and / or embodiments thereof will not be described in further detail herein.

[0113] The catheter 1130 of the device 1100 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 1130 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to any of the catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, 830, 930, and / or 1030 described above. Accordingly, such similar portions and / or aspects of the catheter 1130 may not be described in further detail herein. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 24 and 25, the catheter 1130 can be formed from any suitable material and can have any suitable length, diameter, and / or configuration as described above in connection with the catheter 130.

[0114] At least a portion of the catheter 1130 is movably disposed within the housing 1110. In some embodiments, the catheter 1130, or a portion thereof, can be moved (e.g., via rotational movement of the actuator 1150) between a first position ( FIG. 24 ) in which a distal end portion 1132 of the catheter 1130 is disposed within the housing 1110 and / or the second port 1112, and a second position ( FIG. 25 ) in which at least a portion of the catheter 1130 extends through the second port 1112 and at least a portion of an access device (not shown) coupled to the second port 1112. In some embodiments, the catheter 1130 can have a length sufficient to position a distal face of the catheter 1130 a predetermined distance, a desired distance, and / or at least a threshold distance beyond a distal face of the access device when the catheter 1130 is in the second position, as described in detail above.

[0115] The actuator 1150 of the device 1100 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the actuator 1150 can be substantially similar in at least shape and / or function to the actuator 950 described in detail above. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, the actuator 1150 has a spool structure 1154 movably coupled to the housing 1110. The spool structure 1154 includes a first engagement structure 1157A and a second engagement structure 1157B configured to selectively engage a portion of the catheter 1130 within the housing 1110. As described above in connection with the actuator 950, the spool structure 1154 can be at least partially disposed within the housing 1110 such that the spool structure 1154 and the housing 1110 collectively define the outer channel 1115. The spool structure 1154 can be configured to guide, direct, and / or engage at least a portion of the catheter 1130 disposed within the housing 1110, as described in further detail herein. Additionally, the catheter 1130 can be spooled, wound, and / or wrapped around the spool structure 1154 in a manner substantially similar to the manner in which the catheter 930 was spooled, wound, and / or wrapped around the spool structure 954. Thus, counterclockwise rotation of the actuator 1150 (shown as arrow OO in FIG. 24) is operable to move the catheter 1130 from the first position (FIG. 24) to the second position (FIG. 25).

[0116] 24 and 25, the engagement structures 957 and 1057 are described as being substantially the same shape, size, and / or configuration, while the engagement structures 1157A and 1157B are different shapes, sizes, and / or configurations. For example, the spool structure 1154 is arranged such that the first engagement structure 1157A is larger than the second engagement structure 1157B. The engagement structures 1157 can be arranged in a mirror arrangement relative to one another such that the spool structure 1154 defines an internal channel 1158 or pathway between the engagement structures 1157A and 1157B that is configured to movably receive a portion of the catheter 1130.

[0117] In some embodiments, the dimensions and / or shape of the engagement structures 1157A and 1157B, and thus the position of the inner channel 1158, can be based at least in part on the location or position of at least one of the first port 1111 or the second port 1112 of the housing 1110. For example, as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, the size of at least the second engagement portion 1158 can be based at least in part on and / or can substantially correspond to the distance between the first port 1111 and the second port 1112. In some embodiments, the dimensions and / or shape of the engagement structures 1157A and / or 1157B can be such that each end of the inner channel 1158 is substantially aligned with at least one of the first port 1111 or the second port 1112 when the device 1100 is in each of the first configuration and / or first state and the second configuration and / or second state, as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25, respectively. In some embodiments, the dimensions or shape of the engagement structures 1157A and 1157B can be increased or decreased, respectively, to, for example, increase or decrease the length or "reach" of the catheter 1130. For example, the path defined at least in part by the inner channel 1158 between the first port 1111 and the second port 1112 of the housing 1110 can be shorter than the path defined at least in part by the inner channel 958 between the first port 911 and the second port 912. Thus, one means of adjusting the catheter length and / or reach can be to increase and / or decrease the dimensions and / or shape of the engagement structures.

[0118] 26 illustrates a fluid transfer device 1200 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 1200 (also referred to herein as a "device") may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 1200 may be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more parts (and / or combinations of parts) of the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, and / or 1100 (or any suitable combination thereof) described above. More specifically, the device 1200 may be substantially similar in form and / or function at least to the devices 900, 1000, and / or 1100 described in detail above. Thus, portions of the device 1200 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0119] However, device 1200 may differ from device 900 in that, for example, they are two devices coupled together so that a single catheter passes through them. As shown, device 1200 includes at least a housing 1210, a catheter 1230, a first actuator 1250A, and a second actuator 1250B. Housing 1210 may be of any suitable configuration. In some embodiments, housing 1210 and / or portions thereof may be substantially similar in at least shape and / or function to housings 910, 1010, and / or 1110 described above. Housing 1210 may differ from housings 910, 1010, and / or 1110 in that, for example, the two housings are coupled together. For example, housing 1210 may include a first portion configured to receive first actuator 1250A and a second portion configured to receive second actuator 1250B. The first portion of the housing 1210 includes and / or is coupled to a first port 1211 that can be fixedly coupled to a proximal end portion 1231 of the catheter 1230. The second portion of the housing 1210 includes and / or is coupled to a second port 1212 that can movably receive a distal end portion 1232 of the catheter 1230. Thus, a portion of the catheter 1230 is configured to be disposed within the first and second portions of the housing 1210 (e.g., along a path within the housing 1210 defined between the first port 1211 and the second port 1212).

[0120] The catheter 1230 of the device 1200 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 1230 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to any of the catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, 830, 930, 1030, and / or 1130 described above. As shown in FIG. 26, the catheter 1230 is at least partially disposed within the housing 1210 and configured to engage or be engaged by at least a portion of one or more actuators. For example, in some embodiments, the form and / or arrangement of the catheter 1230 within the housing 1210 can be substantially similar to the form and / or arrangement for the catheter 930 described in detail above.

[0121] The first actuator 1250A is disposed within a first portion of the housing 1210 and includes a pair of engagement structures 1257A. More specifically, as described in detail above with respect to the actuator 950, the first actuator 1250A includes a pair of engagement structures 1257A disposed in a mirror orientation relative to one another, with a first inner channel 1258A or pathway defined between the pair of engagement structures. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 26, the engagement structures 1257A can have, for example, a hemispherical shape. In another embodiment, the engagement structures can be any suitable shape and / or dimensions, such as, for example, a teardrop shape and / or any other suitable shape. The second actuator 1250B is disposed together within a second portion of the housing 1210 and includes a pair of engagement structures 1257B. The engagement structures 1257B can be substantially similar in shape, size, and / or configuration to the engagement structures 1257A. Thus, the engagement structures 1257B define a second inner channel 1258B therebetween.

[0122] As discussed above in connection with devices 900, 1000, and / or 1100, device 1200 is configured to transition from a first configuration and / or state to a second configuration and / or state in response to rotation of actuator 1250, as indicated by arrow PP. When device 1200 is in the first configuration and / or state, catheter 1230 is configured to be in a first position such that a maximum or substantially maximum portion or length of catheter 1230 is disposed within housing 1210 between first port 1211 and second port 1212 (e.g., within one or more lumens (e.g., outer channels or portions thereof) defined by housing 1210 and / or inner channels 1258A and 1258B). When the device 1200 is in the second configuration and / or second state, the catheter 1230 can be configured to be in a second position such that a minimum or substantially minimum portion or length of the catheter 1230 is disposed within the housing 1210 between the first port 1211 and the second port 1212. Although not shown, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 26, the device 1200 can be configured such that when the device 1200 is in the second configuration and / or second state, the catheter 1230 extends along a substantially linear path defined at least in part by the inner channels 1258A and 1258B between the first port 1211 and the second port 1212. Furthermore, as described in detail above, when the catheter 1230 is in the second position, the distal end portion 1232 of the catheter 1230 can be disposed in a desired location (e.g., a distal location) relative to the second port 1212 and / or an access device coupled to the second port 1212. In some embodiments, the arrangement and / or configuration of device 1200 allows catheter 1230 to have an increased length, for example, as compared to the catheter length of devices 900, 1000, and / or 1100.

[0123] 27 illustrates a fluid transfer device 1300 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 1300 (also referred to herein as "device") may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 1300 may be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more parts (and / or combinations of parts) of the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, and / or 1200 described above. More specifically, the device 1300 may be substantially similar, at least in form and / or function, to the devices 900, 1000, 1100, and / or 1200 (or any suitable combination thereof) described in detail above. Thus, portions of the device 1300 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0124] As shown, the device 1300 includes at least a housing 1310, a catheter 1330, and an actuator 1350. The housing 1310 may be of any suitable configuration. In some embodiments, the housing 1310 and / or portions thereof may be substantially similar in form and / or function to the housings 910, 1010, and / or 1110 described above. For example, the housing 1310 includes a first port 1311 configured to fixedly receive a proximal end portion 1331 of the catheter 1330 and a second port 1312 configured to receive a distal end portion 1332 of the catheter 1330. Thus, portions and / or aspects of the housing 1310 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0125] The catheter 1330 of the device 1300 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 1330 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to any of the catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, 830, 930, 1030, 1130, and / or 1230 described above. As shown in FIG. 27, the catheter 1330 is at least partially disposed within the housing 1310 and configured to engage or be engaged by at least a portion of the actuator 1350. For example, in some embodiments, the configuration and / or arrangement of the catheter 1330 within the housing 1310 can be substantially similar to the configuration and / or arrangement for the catheter 930 described in detail above.

[0126] The actuator 1350 of the device 1300 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the actuator 1350 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to the actuators 950, 1050, 1150, and / or 1250 described in detail above. However, the actuator 1350 can differ from the actuators 950, 1050, 1150, and / or 1250 by including a first spool structure 1354A and a second spool structure 1354B. Each of the spool structures 1354A and 1354B includes a pair of engagement structures 1357A and 1357B, respectively. The engagement structures 1357A and 1357B can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. Additionally, the engagement structures 1357A collectively define at least a portion of a first inner channel 1358A, and the engagement structures 1357B collectively define at least a portion of a second inner channel 1358B, as described above in connection with devices 900, 100, 1100, and / or 1200.

[0127] 27, the spool structures 1354A and 1354B are configured to be disposed in a concentric arrangement within the housing 1310. For example, as described above in connection with the device 900, the first spool structure 1354A is disposed within the housing 1310 such that an outer surface of the first spool structure 1354A and an inner surface of the housing 1310 collectively define an outer channel 1315. The second spool structure 1354B is disposed at least partially within the first spool structure 1354A (e.g., between a pair of engagement structures 1357A). Furthermore, the arrangement of the second spool structure 1354B within the first spool structure 1354A is such that at least a portion of the first inner channel 1358A is collectively defined by an inner surface of the engagement structure 1357A of the first spool structure 1354A and an outer surface of the engagement structure 1357B of the second spool structure 1354B.

[0128] As described above in connection with actuator 950, spool structures 1354A and 1354B may be at least partially disposed within housing 1310 and configured to guide, direct, and / or engage at least a portion of catheter 1330 disposed within housing 1310. For example, catheter 1330 may be wound, reeled, and / or wrapped around spool structures 1354A and 1354B such that when catheter 1330 is in a first configuration and / or first position, a portion of catheter 1330 extends from a first port 1311 of housing 1310, through at least a first portion of outer channel 1315, through first inner channel 1358A and second inner channel 1358B, through at least a second portion of outer channel 1315, and into second port 1312. In this manner, wrapping, reeling, and / or winding of the catheter 1330 around the spool structure 1354 can be performed in a manner similar to that described above in connection with the catheter 930 and the spool structure 954 (e.g., excluding the second inner channel 1358B).

[0129] As discussed above in connection with devices 900, 1000, 1100, and / or 1200, device 1300 is configured to transition from a first configuration and / or state to a second configuration and / or state in response to rotation of actuator 1350. For example, in some embodiments, a user can rotate the actuator in a counterclockwise direction to rotate first spool structure 1354A in a counterclockwise direction, as indicated by arrow QQ in FIG 27. The arrangement of spool structures 1354A and 1354B and / or the arrangement of catheter 1330 passing through inner channels 1358A and 1358B can be such that counterclockwise rotation of first spool structure 1354A results in clockwise rotation of second spool structure 1354B, as indicated by arrow RR in FIG 27. When the device 1300 is in a first configuration and / or first state, the catheter 1330 is configured to be in a first position to dispose a maximum or substantially maximum portion or length of the catheter 1330 within the housing 1310 between the first port 1311 and the second port 1312 (e.g., within one or more lumens or channels defined by the housing 1310 and / or the inner channels 1358A, 1358B). When the device 1300 is in a second configuration and / or second state, the catheter 1330 is configured to be in a second position to dispose a minimum or substantially minimum portion or length of the catheter 1330 within the housing 1310 between the first port 1311 and the second port 1312. 27, the device 1300 can be configured such that when the device 1300 is in the second configuration and / or second state, the catheter 1330 extends along a substantially linear path defined at least in part by the inner channels 1358A and 1358B between the first port 1311 and the second port 1312. Additionally, as described in detail above, when the catheter 1330 is in the second position, the distal end portion 1332 of the catheter 1330 can be positioned at a desired location (e.g., a distal location) relative to the second port 1312 and / or an access device coupled to the second port 1312.In some embodiments, the arrangement and / or configuration of device 1300 can enable catheter 1330 to have an increased length, for example, at least relative to the catheter lengths of devices 900, 1000, and / or 1100.

[0130] Although in FIG. 27 a portion of the catheter 1330 is shown as being convoluted, looped, and / or coiled around and / or through the spool structure 1354A and 1354B of the actuator 1350, in other embodiments the device may include a catheter configured to be at least partially disposed within a housing of the device in any suitable configuration. For example, FIGS. 28-30 show a device 1400 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 1400 (also referred to herein as the "device") may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 1400 may be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more portions (and / or combinations of portions) of the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, and / or 1300 described above. Thus, portions of the device 1400 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0131] The device 1400 includes at least a housing 1410, a catheter 1430, and an actuator 1450. The housing 1410 can be of any suitable configuration. As discussed above in connection with the previous embodiment, the housing 1410 includes a first port 1411 configured to be fixedly coupled to a proximal end portion 1431 of the catheter 1430, and a second port 1412 configured to receive a distal end portion 1432 of the catheter 1430. However, the housing 1410 can differ by having a cavity structure 1416 and an extension structure 1418. As shown in FIGS. 28-30, the cavity structure 1416 can be located at or near the proximal end portion of the housing 1410, can be coupled to the first port 1411 (e.g., a proximal port), and / or the cavity structure 1416 can otherwise include the first port 1411. The extension structure 1418 may be coupled to the cavity structure 1416 and disposed at or near a distal end portion of the housing 1410. The extension structure 1418 may be coupled to and / or may otherwise include the second port 1412 (e.g., a distal port).

[0132] As shown in FIGS. 28-30, the cavity structure 1416 can be substantially conical or the like, having a bottom end or surface (e.g., a larger end or surface) that forms the proximal surface of the housing 1410, and an apex end (e.g., a smaller end) that is coupled to the extension structure 1418. Thus, in this embodiment, the housing 1410 can have a substantially funnel-like shape. The cavity structure 1416 is configured to hold at least a portion of the catheter 1430. More specifically, prior to placing the catheter 1430 in the second position, as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the cavity structure 1416 can hold and / or house at least a portion of the catheter 1430 in a spooled, coiled, convoluted, and / or looped arrangement and / or arrangement. The extension 1418 can be configured to hold and / or receive at least the distal end portion 1432 of the catheter 1430, for example, in a linear, straight, and / or substantially non-coiled configuration and / or arrangement.

[0133] The catheter 1430 of the device 1400 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 1430 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to any of the catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, 830, 930, 1030, 1130, 1230, and / or 1330 described above. Accordingly, such similar portions and / or aspects of the catheter 1430 may not be described in further detail herein. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28-30, the catheter 1430 can be formed from any suitable material and can have any suitable length, diameter, and / or configuration as described above in connection with the catheter 130.

[0134] At least a portion of the catheter 1430 is movably disposed within the housing 1410. In some embodiments, the catheter 1430, or a portion thereof, can be moved (e.g., via rotational movement of the actuator 1450) between a first position ( FIG. 28 ) in which a portion of the catheter 1430 is spooled and / or wound within the cavity structure 1416 and a distal end portion 1432 of the catheter 1430 is disposed within the extension structure 1418 and / or the second port 1412, and a second position ( FIG. 30 ) in which at least a portion of the catheter 1430 extends through the second port 1412 and at least a portion of an access device (not shown) coupled to the second port 1412. In some embodiments, as described in detail above, when the catheter 1430 is in the second position, the catheter 1430 can have a length sufficient to position a distal face of the catheter 1430 a predetermined distance, a desired distance, and / or at least a threshold distance beyond a distal face of the access device.

[0135] The actuator 1450 of the device 1400 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, as shown in FIGS. 28-30, the actuator 1450 includes a first portion 1451 and a second portion 1452. The actuator 1450 can be coupled to the extension structure 1418 of the housing 1410 at or near the second port 1412. In another embodiment, the actuator 1450 can be coupled to the housing 1410 at any suitable location along the length of the housing 1410. The actuator 1450 can be coupled to the housing 1410 in any suitable manner that allows the actuator 1450 to rotate relative to the housing 1410. Additionally, the actuator 1450 can be coupled to the housing 1410 such that the second portion 1452 is at least partially disposed within the housing 1410 and can contact and / or otherwise engage the catheter 1430. In this manner, the actuator 1450 can be substantially similar, at least in form and / or function, to the actuator 250 described above in connection with Figures 3 and 4.

[0136] In use, the device 1400 can be in a first configuration and / or state ( FIG. 28 ) with a portion of the catheter 1430 (e.g., the proximal end portion 1431) wrapped and / or coiled within the cavity structure 1416 and a distal end portion 1432 of the catheter 1430 disposed within the extension structure 1418 and / or the second port 1412, and a user can manipulate the device 1400 by engaging the first portion 1451 of the actuator 1450 to transition the device 1400 to a second configuration and / or state ( FIG. 30 ). For example, a user can apply a force to the first portion 1451 of the actuator 1450 to rotate the actuator 1450, for example, in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow SS in FIG. In this manner, the second portion 1452 of the actuator 1450 can rotate relative to the housing 1410 to engage the catheter 1430 and move the catheter 1430 in a distal direction from a first position toward a second position as indicated by arrow TT in FIG. 29. The movement and / or transition of the catheter 1430 from the first position toward the second position is such that the catheter 1430 can unwind and / or unwind within the cavity structure 1416 and advance (e.g., in a linear direction) through the extension structure 1418. In some instances, the funnel shape of the housing 1410 can allow the catheter 1430 to contact and / or be otherwise guided or guided by an inner surface of the housing 1410 (e.g., an inner surface of the cavity structure 1416). As shown in FIG. 30, in some embodiments, when the catheter 1430 is in the second position, the catheter 1430 can be fully extended (e.g., substantially straight or linear). In some embodiments, when the second port 1412 of the housing 1410 is connected to an access device or the like (not shown), the catheter 1430 can be advanced to a desired position relative to the access device, as described in detail above in connection with the device 100.

[0137] Although not shown in FIGS. 28-30, in some embodiments, the housing 1410 and / or the cavity structure 1416 further includes one or more internal structures within the cavity structure 1416 that are configured to guide and / or direct the winding (or unwinding), winding (or unwinding), winding (or unwinding), etc. of the catheter 1430. For example, FIGS. 31-33 show a fluid transfer device 1500 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 1500 (also referred to herein as a "device") can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 1500 can be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more portions (and / or combinations of portions) of the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, and / or 1400 described above. More particularly, the device 1500 may be substantially similar in at least form and / or function to the device 1400 described above in connection with Figures 28-30. Accordingly, portions of the device 1500 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0138] The device 1500 includes at least a housing 1510, a catheter 1530, and an actuator 1550. The housing 1510 can be at least substantially similar in form and / or function to the housing 1410 described above in connection with FIGS. 28-30. For example, the housing 1510 includes a cavity structure 1516 disposed at or near a proximal end portion of the housing 1510, and an extension structure 1518 coupled to the cavity structure 1516 and disposed at or near a distal end portion of the housing 1510. The cavity structure 1516 can be coupled to and / or otherwise include a first port 1511 (e.g., a proximal port), and the extension structure 1518 can be coupled to and / or otherwise include a second port 1512 (e.g., a distal port). As described in detail above in connection with the housing 1410, the first port 1511 is configured to be fixedly connected to the proximal end portion 1531 of the catheter 1530, and the second port 1512 is configured to receive the distal end portion 1532 of the catheter 1530.

[0139] However, the housing 1510 can differ from the housing 1410 by including an internal structure 1517 disposed within the cavity structure 1516. As shown, the internal structure 1517 can be, for example, a conical internal structure adjacent to and / or extending from a proximal end or surface of the housing 1510. The internal structure 1517 is configured to support and / or guide at least a portion of the catheter 1530 disposed within the cavity structure 1516 as the catheter 1530 is moved between a first position ( FIG. 31 ) and a second position ( FIG. 33 ). For example, in some embodiments, as described in further detail herein, the internal structure 1517 and an inner surface of the cavity structure 1516 can collectively define a relatively small space and / or volume that can receive at least a portion of the catheter 1530. Additionally, the inner surface of the internal structure 1517 and / or the cavity structure 1516 can selectively contact, support, and / or guide the catheter 1530 as the catheter 1530 advances through the housing 1510. In some embodiments, all or substantially all of the catheter 1530 disposed within the housing 1510 can be supported by a portion of the housing 1510 and / or the actuator 1550. Although not shown in FIGS. 31-33 , the arrangement of the internal structure 1517 can include an opening, a coupler, and / or any other suitable feature configured to allow the first port 1511 to be fixedly coupled to the proximal end portion 1531 of the catheter 1530.

[0140] The catheter 1530 of the device 1500 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 1530 can be substantially similar in shape and / or function to any of the catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, 830, 930, 1030, 1130, 1230, 1330, and / or 1430 described above. Accordingly, such similar portions and / or aspects of the catheter 1530 may not be described in further detail herein. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 31-33, the catheter 1530 can be formed from any suitable material and can have any suitable length, diameter, and / or configuration as described above in connection with the catheter 130.

[0141] At least a portion of the catheter 1530 is movably disposed within the housing 1510. In some embodiments, the catheter 1530, or a portion thereof, is movable (e.g., via rotational movement of the actuator 1550) between a first position and a second position. For example, as shown in FIG. 31 , when the catheter 1530 is in the first position, a portion of the catheter 1530 is wrapped and / or wound around the internal structure 1517 within the cavity structure 1516, and a distal end portion 1532 of the catheter 1530 is disposed within the extension structure 1518 and / or the second port 1512. As shown in FIG. 33 , when the catheter 1530 is in the second position, at least a portion of the catheter 1530 extends through the second port 1512 and at least a portion of an access device (not shown) coupled to the second port 1512. In some embodiments, as described in detail above, the catheter 1530 can have a length sufficient to position the distal surface of the catheter 1530 a predetermined distance, a desired distance, and / or at least a threshold distance beyond the distal surface of the access device when the catheter 1530 is in the second position.

[0142] The actuator 1550 of the device 1500 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, as shown in FIGS. 31-33, the actuator 1550 includes a first portion 1551 and a second portion 1552. The actuator 1550 can be coupled to the extension structure 1518 of the housing 1510 at or near the second port 1512. In another embodiment, the actuator 1550 can be coupled to the housing 1510 at any suitable location along the length of the housing 1510. The actuator 1550 can be coupled to the housing 1510 in any suitable manner that allows the actuator 1550 to rotate relative to the housing 1510. Additionally, coupling of the actuator 1550 to the housing 1510 allows the second portion 1552 to be at least partially disposed within the housing 1510 and to contact and / or otherwise engage the catheter 1530. In this manner, the actuator 1550 can be substantially similar, at least in form and / or function, to the actuator 250 described above in connection with Figures 3 and 4.

[0143] In use, the device 1500 can be in a first configuration and / or state ( FIG. 31 ) with a portion of the catheter 1530 (e.g., proximal end portion 1531) wrapped and / or wound around the internal structure 1517 within the cavity structure 1516 and a distal end portion 1532 of the catheter 1530 disposed within the extension structure 1518 and / or second port 1512, and a user can manipulate the device 1500 by engaging the first portion 1551 of the actuator 1550 to transition the device 1500 to or toward the second configuration and / or state ( FIG. 33 ). For example, a user can apply a force to the first portion 1551 of the actuator 1550 to rotate the actuator 1550, for example, in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrow UU in FIG. In this manner, the second portion 1552 of the actuator 1550 rotates relative to the housing 1510 to engage the catheter 1530 and move the catheter 1530 distally from the first position toward the second position. The movement and / or transition of the catheter 1530 allows the catheter 1530 to unwind and / or advance (e.g., in a linear direction) within the cavity structure 1516 and through the extension structure 1518. In some examples, the conical shape of the internal structure 1517 and the conical shape of the inner surface of the cavity structure 1516 allow the catheter 1530 to contact and / or otherwise guide or guide the catheter 1530 as it moves from the first position toward the second position. As shown in FIG. 33, in some embodiments, the catheter 1530 can be fully extended (e.g., substantially straight or linear) when the catheter 1530 is in the second position. In some embodiments, when the second port 1512 of the housing 1510 is connected to an access device or the like (not shown), the catheter 1530 can be advanced to a desired location relative to the access device, as described in detail above in connection with the device 150.

[0144] 34-39 show a fluid transfer device 1600 according to another embodiment. The fluid transfer device 1600 (also referred to herein as a "device") may be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, at least a portion of the device 1600 may be similar and / or substantially identical to one or more parts (and / or combinations of parts) of the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, and / or 1500 described above. More specifically, the device 1600 may be substantially similar, at least in form and / or function, to the devices 900, 1000, and / or 1100 (or any suitable combination thereof) described in detail above. Thus, portions of the device 1600 may not be described in further detail herein.

[0145] The device 1600 includes at least a housing 1610, a catheter 1630, and an actuator 1650. The housing 1610 may be substantially similar to the housings 910, 1010, and 1110 described in detail above. For example, the housing 1610 includes a first port 1611 that may be configured to couple to and / or otherwise receive a proximal end portion 1631 of the catheter 1630, and a second port 1612 configured to receive a distal end portion 1632 of the catheter 1630. In some embodiments, the first port 1611 may be configured to fixedly couple to the proximal end portion 1631 of the catheter 1630, as described above in connection with the devices 700, 800, 900, 1000, and 1100. The housing 1610 may be of any suitable shape, size, or configuration. In some embodiments, the housing 1610, or a portion thereof, may have a circular cross-sectional shape defined with respect to a top view plane. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 34-36, each of the first port 1611 and the second port 1612 can extend from a peripheral edge or surface of the housing 1610 (e.g., a peripheral surface along the periphery of the housing). The first port 1611 and the second port 1612 can be disposed along the periphery of the housing such that an axis defined by a lumen of the first port 1611 is substantially parallel to an axis defined by a lumen of the second port 1612. In some embodiments, the first port 1611 of the housing 1610 can be surrounded by a cover 1619 configured to receive at least a portion of the catheter 1630 to protect at least a portion of the catheter 1630 from undesired bending, flexing, and / or kinking. In some embodiments, the cover 1619 includes and / or forms a stop 1620 that is configured to limit, restrict, and / or otherwise at least partially define a range of motion (e.g., a rotational range of motion) associated with movement of the actuator 1650.

[0146] The catheter 1630 of the device 1600 can have any suitable shape, dimensions, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 1630 can be substantially similar in at least shape and / or function to any of the foregoing catheters 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, 830, 930, 1030, 1130, 1230, 1330, 1430, and / or 1530. Thus, such similar parts and / or aspects of the catheter 1630 may not be described in further detail herein. For example, in some embodiments, the catheter 1630 can be formed of a single material and can have a predetermined length, diameter, and / or configuration as described above in connection with the catheter 130. In another embodiment, the catheter 1630 can be formed of dissimilar materials and / or can have different dimensions, shapes, diameters, thicknesses, etc., to provide any suitable rigidity, flexibility, hardness, and / or durometer. For example, the proximal end portion 1631 of the catheter 1630 can be formed of a flexible material that can deform in response to a sudden change in bending force or pressure. In some examples, the proximal end portion 1631 of the catheter 1630 deforms in response to a negative pressure having an intensity exceeding a threshold amount or intensity of the negative pressure, such that, as a result, the possibility of a part of the catheter 1630 collapsing at a position downstream of the proximal end portion 1631 (e.g., the distal end portion 1632 and / or any other suitable part) can be reduced. The distal end portion 1632 of the catheter 1630 can be formed of a relatively high-rigidity material, or a material having a rigidity or stiffness greater than at least the stiffness or rigidity of the proximal end portion 1631 of the catheter 1630. In some embodiments, the distal end portion 1632 has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the proximal end portion 1631 and can facilitate advancing at least a part of the catheter 1630 toward and / or from a desired position relative to the PIV.In some embodiments, the proximal end portion 1631 and the distal end portion 1632 of the catheter 1630 can be separate components having different lengths, diameters, and / or configurations, which can be mechanically and fluidly connected, for example, at or within the first port 1611, the cover 1619, and / or any other suitable portion of the housing 1610. For example, in some embodiments, a secondary or outer catheter can be disposed outside the housing 1610, and the secondary or outer catheter can include a distal end portion disposed at least partially within the first port 1611 and / or the cover 1619 and coupled to the proximal end portion of the catheter 1630 using any suitable coupler, adapter, connector, and / or the like.

[0147] As discussed above in connection with the device 100, in some examples, the proximal end portion 1631 of the catheter 1630 can include a clamp 1633 that can be configured to physically and / or fluidly couple to a fluid source and / or fluid reservoir (e.g., a sample bottle). In this manner, a volume of fluid (e.g., bodily fluid, medication, saline, etc.) can be transferred between the catheter 1630 (and thus the patient) and the fluid source or fluid reservoir via the coupler 1633. In some embodiments, the coupler 1633 can be a clamp, a grommet, an O-ring, a compression member, Luer Lok™, and / or any other suitable coupler. For example, FIGS. 34-36 show that the connector 1633 can be a female Luer Lok™ with an integrated clamp.

[0148] The actuator 1650 of the device 1600 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the actuator 1650 can be substantially similar to the actuators 950 and / or 1050 described in detail above. For example, as shown in FIGS. 34-37, the actuator 1650 has a spool structure 1654 disposed at least partially within a housing 1610 and movably coupled to the housing 1610. As shown in FIGS. 34, 36, and 37, the spool structure 1654 includes a pair of engagement structures 1657 disposed in a mirror orientation relative to one another, the pair of engagement structures 1657 having (1) an inner channel or pathway 1658 between interior, inner, and / or adjacent portions thereof, and (2) an outer channel 1615 defined between an exterior or outer portion and / or surface of the spool structure 1654 and an interior or inner portion and / or surface (e.g., an inner periphery) of the housing 1610.

[0149] As shown, the actuator 1650 includes an interlocking feature 1659 disposed on an exterior of the actuator 1650 (e.g., exterior of the housing 1610). In some embodiments, a user can engage, contact, and / or apply force to the interlocking feature 1659 to move the actuator 1650 relative to the housing 1610 (e.g., in a rotational motion about an axis 1699 shown in FIGS. 34 and 35). As discussed above in connection with devices 900, 1000, and / or 1100, movement of the actuator 1650 results in and / or otherwise causes at least a portion of the convoluted or coiled catheter 1630 within the housing 1610 to advance through one or more portions of the housing 1610. Additionally, as shown, the interlocking feature 1659 is disposed near a periphery or edge of the actuator 1650. To prevent winding (or unwinding) of the catheter 1630 beyond a predetermined position, the cover 1619 can include a stop feature 1620 positioned in the path of the interlocking feature 1659 along the circumference of the actuator 1650 (or housing 1610), thereby limiting or at least partially restricting the movement of the interlocking feature 1659 and thus the actuator 1650 relative to the housing 1610.

[0150] The catheter 1630 is disposed within the housing 1610 such that a portion of the catheter 1630 is disposed within at least one of the outer channel 1615 and / or the inner channel 1658 such that the catheter 1630 is advanced therethrough (e.g., through the housing 1610) in response to actuation of the actuator 1650. For example, FIGS. 34, 36, and 39 show the device 1600 in a first configuration and / or a first state in which the catheter 1630 is in a first position. When the catheter 1630 is in the first position, a portion of the catheter 1630 can extend from the first port 1611, through a first portion 1615A of the outer channel 1615, through the inner channel 1658, through a second portion 1615B of the outer channel 1615, and into the second port 1612. 39, when the device 1600 is in the first configuration and / or first state, the catheter 1630 can pass through a first portion 1615A of the outer channel 1615 to a position near the second port 1612. Rather than extending from the first portion 1615A of the outer channel 1615 into the second port 1612, the catheter 1630 extends through the inner channel 1658 from a position near the second port 1612 to a position near the first port 1611. In this manner, the catheter 1630 is substantially wrapped around one of the engagement structures 1657. Additionally, the catheter 1630 extends from a position at or near the first port 1611 through a second portion 1615B of the outer channel 1615 (e.g., at least partially defined by the other engagement structure 1657) to a position at, near, or at least partially within the second port 1612. In this position and / or orientation, the path that the catheter 1630 takes along the outer channel 1615 and the inner channel 1658 between the first port 1611 and the second port 1612 is, for example, the longest or substantially longest path between the first port 1611 and the second port 1612 of the housing 1610, and when the device 1600 is in a first configuration and / or first state (e.g., when the actuator 1650 and / or the catheter 1630 are in a first position), the greatest or substantially greatest portion of the catheter 1630 is positioned within the housing 1610.

[0151] The device 1600 can transition from the first configuration and / or state to the second configuration and / or state by manipulating the interlocking features 1659 of the actuator 1650 to move or rotate the actuator 1650 in a clockwise direction as indicated by arrows VV in FIG. 34 about a central axis 1699 defined by the housing 1610. Movement of the actuator 1650 results in rotation of the spool structure 1654 and the engagement structure 1657, which changes a portion of the outer channel 1615 disposed between the first port 1611 and a first end of the inner channel 1658 (at or near the location of the second port 1612) and a portion of the outer channel 1615 disposed between the second port 1612 and a second end of the inner channel 1658 opposite the first end (at or near the location of the first port 1611), as shown in FIG. More specifically, a portion of the outer channel 1615 is reduced, thereby operable to advance the catheter 1630 from its first position toward its second position through a serpentine, circutous, tortuous, and / or otherwise curved or non-linear path collectively formed and / or defined by the outer channel 1615 and the inner channel 1658. Stated another way, rotation of the actuator 1650 relative to the housing 1610 results in rotation of the engagement structure 1657 relative to the first port 1611 and the second port 1612. Additionally, rotation of the engagement structure 1657 moves and / or changes the orientation of the inner channel 1658 relative to the first port 1611 and the second port 1612.

[0152] The interlocking feature 1659 can be manipulated to move the actuator 1650 a predetermined and / or desired amount to place the device 1600 in a second configuration and / or state in which the catheter 1630 is in a second position. In some embodiments, the actuator 1650 can be rotated approximately 180 degrees to transition the device 1600 from the first configuration to the second configuration. In this position and / or orientation, the outer channel 1615 and the inner channel 1658 can define a shortest path through the housing 1610 between the first port 1611 and the second port 1612, for example. For example, in some embodiments, when the device 1600 is in the second configuration and / or second state, the arrangement of the engagement structure 1657 is such that the catheter 1630 can extend between the first port 1611 and the second port 1612 via the inner channel 1658 without substantially extending through the outer channel 1615 (e.g., without passing through either the first or second portion of the outer channel 1615).

[0153] As discussed in detail above in connection with previous embodiments, the arrangement of device 1600 allows the length or "reach" of catheter 1630 to be longer than, for example, the length of housing 1610 and / or the length of housing 1610 between first port 1611 and second port 1612 (e.g., via inner channel 1658). Thus, when second port 1612 of housing 1610 is coupled to an access device or the like (not shown), catheter 1630 can be advanced to a desired location relative to the access device without device 1600 having excessive length, regardless of the type and / or length of the access device, as discussed in detail above in connection with device 100.

[0154] The arrangement of the device 1600 is such that manipulating the interlocking features 1659 to move or rotate the actuator 1650 a certain angular amount or distance (e.g., a rotational amount) moves the distal end portion 1632 of the catheter 1630 a certain linear amount or distance. In other words, a linear displacement (e.g., translation) of the distal end portion 1632 of the catheter 1630 is achieved with an angular displacement (e.g., rotation) of the actuator 1650. In some embodiments, the actuator 1650, spool structure 1654, and / or engagement structure 1659 are configured to achieve a “length multiplication” and / or “displacement multiplication” effect and / or to provide a mechanical advantage such that a relatively small amount of rotation of the interlocking features 1659 of the actuator 1650 results in a relatively large amount of translation of the distal end portion 1632 of the catheter 1630 (or at least a translation amount greater than the amount of rotation).

[0155] As previously described, movement of the actuator 1650 moves the distal end portion 1632 of the catheter 1630 a linear amount or distance. Such movement of the actuator applies a force to the portion of the catheter 1630 that is convoluted or coiled within the housing 1610. The arrangement of the device 1600 is such that all or substantially all of the portion of the catheter 1630 disposed within the housing 1610 is supported by surfaces of the housing 1610 and / or the actuator 1650 that define the outer channel 1615 and / or inner channel 1658. This can provide tangential support along the portion of the catheter 1630 disposed within the housing 1610, for example, as the actuator 1650 applies a force that operates to move the catheter 1630 through the housing 1610. As a result, the catheter 1630 can be advanced avoiding undesirable bending, kinking, or deformation that may otherwise be associated with "pushing" or advancing an unsupported length of a catheter (or other relatively flexible tube, member, etc.).

[0156] In some embodiments, in response to movement of the actuator 1650, a supported path or trajectory along which a portion of the catheter 1630 disposed within the housing 1610 (e.g., a portion that is convoluted or coiled within the housing 1610) may advance is defined by an inner surface of the engagement structure 1657 that defines the inner channel 1615, and / or an outer surface of the engagement structure 1657 that defines the outer channel 1658 and a corresponding inner surface of the housing 1610. In this manner, as the actuator 1650 moves, the portion of the catheter 1630 disposed within the housing 1610 may be supported, guided, guided, and / or otherwise moved along this supported trajectory path, thereby limiting and / or substantially preventing undesirable deformation, curling, bending, bowing, and / or deflection of a portion or portions of the catheter 1630 within the housing 1650 that may limit and / or substantially impede a desired linear displacement of the distal end portion 1632 of the catheter 1630.

[0157] 34 has been described as transitioning the device 1600 from a first configuration and / or state to a second configuration and / or state, the actuator 1650 can instead be configured to be moved in a counterclockwise direction to transition the device 1600 from the first configuration and / or state to the second configuration. For example, the arrangement of the spool structure 1654 and / or the arrangement of the catheter 1630 passing through the inner channel 1658 can be reversed relative to an in-plane axis of the device 1600 such that counterclockwise movement of the actuator 1650 changes the position of the portion of the outer channel 1615 disposed between the first port 1611 and a first end of the inner channel 1658 and the portion of the outer channel 1615 disposed between the second port 1612 and a second end of the inner channel 1658 opposite the first end.

[0158] In some examples, as described in detail above, a user may rotate the actuator 1650 in a first direction to transition the device from the first configuration to the second configuration, thereby advancing the catheter 1630 from the first position to the second position. In some examples, the user may then rotate the actuator 1650 in a second direction opposite the first direction after the device has transitioned from the first configuration to the second configuration to retract the catheter 1630 from the second position to the first position, or to position most or a greater length of the catheter 1630 within the housing 1610 between the first port 1611 and the second port 1612. Alternatively, in some examples, the user can first rotate the actuator 1650 to transition the device from the first configuration to the second configuration, thereby advancing the catheter 1630 from the first position to the second position, and then continue to rotate the actuator 1650 in the same direction to retract the catheter 1630 from the second position to a third position (e.g., the catheter 1630 loops in the opposite direction around the actuator 1650) where a portion or length of the catheter 1630 is disposed within the housing 1610 between the first port 1611 and the second port 1612. For example, in some embodiments, the actuator 1650 can be rotated approximately 180° to move the catheter 1630 from the first position to the second position, and then rotated more than 180° (e.g., until the interlocking feature 1659 abuts the stop 1620) to move the catheter from the second position to the third position.

[0159] 40, a flow chart illustrating a method 10 for transferring fluid to or from a patient through an indwelling vascular access device using fluid transfer, according to one embodiment, is presented. The fluid transfer device may be similar and / or substantially identical to any of the fluid transfer devices 100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, and / or 1600 described in detail above. Thus, the fluid transfer device (also referred to herein as a "device") may include a housing, a catheter at least partially disposed within the housing, and an actuator coupled to the housing and selectively engaging the catheter. The housing includes a first port and a second port. The first port may be fixedly coupled to a proximal end portion of the catheter. The method 10 includes, at step 11, coupling the second port of the housing to the indwelling vascular access device. For example, in some embodiments, a user can manipulate the fluid transfer device to physically and fluidly couple a second port of the housing of the fluid transfer device to an indwelling vascular access device, such as an indwelling peripheral intravenous line (PIV), an extended indwelling PIV, a midline PIV, a PICC line, and / or the like. The arrangement of the catheter of the fluid transfer device can be such that a proximal end portion of the catheter is fixedly coupled and / or otherwise maintained in a fixed position relative to the first port. In some embodiments, the second port of the housing can be and / or include a Luer Lok™, “Clip-Lock-Snap” connection, etc., configured to physically and fluidly couple to a PIV, for example.

[0160] In step 12, an actuator of the fluid transfer device is rotated an angular distance about a central axis defined by a housing of the fluid transfer device. For example, in some embodiments, the housing can define a range of movement of the actuator. The housing can include structures, features, components, etc. that can selectively engage a portion of the actuator to limit, restrict, guide, and / or otherwise direct the amount or direction of movement of the portion of the actuator. In this manner, the actuator can be rotated through a desired range of movement and / or a desired angular displacement based at least in part on the dimensions and / or arrangement of the portion of the actuator, the dimensions and / or arrangement of the portion of the housing, etc., similar to the actuators described in detail above in connection with devices 900, 1000, 1100, 1600.

[0161] In step 13, the distal end portion of the catheter is advanced a linear distance from a first position to a second position in response to rotation of the actuator. In the first position, the distal end portion of the catheter is within the housing, and in the second position, the distal end portion of the catheter is distal to the indwelling vascular access device. The distal end portion of the catheter advances linearly in a direction perpendicular to a central axis through the second port and the indwelling vascular access device. In some embodiments, rotation of the actuator by rotation and / or angular displacement can advance, wind (or unwind), wind (or unwind), and / or otherwise move the distal end portion of the catheter disposed within the housing. For example, rotation of the actuator and advancement of the catheter (or at least its distal end portion) relative to the housing can be substantially similar to the rotation, advancement, etc. described in detail above in connection with device 1600. In this manner, the fluid transfer device arrangement can be such that the catheter has a sufficient length to extend a desired distance (e.g., to extend at least partially into or through at least a portion of a standard or short PIV, an extended indwelling PIV, a midline PIV, a PICC line, and / or any other suitable access device). Similarly, the catheter can have a sufficient length to couple the second port of the housing to any suitable adapter, extension set, tubing, port, etc. In some instances, for example, the catheter can have a sufficient length to extend from the housing, through an IV extension set and / or any suitable length of tubing coupled thereto, through a port (e.g., a proximal port and / or a side port) of the PIV, and to a location within the patient's vein distal to the PIV.

[0162] Although the devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, and 1500 have been illustrated and / or described above as being coupled to an access device, such as a PIV, in other embodiments the device can be coupled to any suitable access device, inductor, adapter, secondary device, or intermediate device. For example, in some instances the second port 212 of the housing 210 of the device 200 can be coupled to an extension set or the like, which is coupled to an indwelling PIV as described herein. The extension set can be, for example, a dual port IV extension set, such as a "Y-adapter" or a "T-adapter". As such, the terms "Y-adapter" and "T-adapter" generally refer to the overall shape of a dual port IV extension set. In other embodiments the extension set can be a single port IV extension set. In these embodiments, the devices described herein may include a catheter having a length sufficient to extend from a housing of the device, through an extension set or other intermediate device, through an access device, and to position a distal end of the catheter distal to the access device. Additionally, the access device may be any suitable device having any suitable length, such as, for example, a standard or short PIV, an extended indwelling PIV, a midline PIV, a PICC line, and / or any other device. In another embodiment, any of the devices described herein may be coupled to any suitable access device, etc., and used in any suitable procedure, surgery, etc.

[0163] In some examples, the transfer devices described herein can be assembled during one or more manufacturing processes and packaged in a pre-assembled configuration. For example, in some examples, assembly of the device can occur in a substantially sterile environment, such as, for example, an ethylene oxide environment. In another embodiment, the transfer devices described herein can be packaged in a non-assembled configuration (e.g., a user can open the package and assemble the components to form the device). The components of the device can be packaged together or separately. In some embodiments, the device can be packaged with, for example, a PIV, an extension set, a Y- or T-adapter, and / or any other suitable components.

[0164] Any of the devices described herein can be used in any suitable process, procedure, method, and / or similar method. For example, in some examples, the devices described herein can be used in medical procedures, processes, and / or methods for fluid transfer to or from a patient. Such procedures can include, for example, drawing bodily fluids from a patient through a previously placed or indwelling access device. More specifically, any of the devices described herein can be used to draw blood from a patient through a pre-placed or indwelling peripheral venous line.

[0165] While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example only and not by way of limitation. While the embodiments have been specifically illustrated and described, it will be understood that various changes in form and detail are possible. Where the above schematics and / or embodiments describe certain components arranged in a particular orientation or position, the arrangement of the components may be altered. Although various embodiments have been described as having certain features and / or combinations of components, as previously described, another embodiment may have any combination of features and / or components of any of the embodiments. For example, as previously described, device 400 may be a combination of certain features and / or aspects of devices 200 and 300.

[0166] Although not shown in some of the devices described herein, any housing and / or actuator may include one or more internal supports or the like configured to support the catheter within the housing. Such internal supports can be, for example, guides, tracks, rails, springs, sleeves, protrusions, ribs, channels, sponges, pads, or the like configured to selectively engage a portion of the catheter. In this manner, the internal supports can limit and / or substantially prevent undesirable deformation and / or deflection of a portion of the catheter as the device transitions between the first and second configurations.

[0167] Although described as limiting and / or substantially preventing undesirable deformation and / or flexing of the catheter, in other embodiments, the catheter can be configured to deflect, bow, bend, and / or change conformation without kinking and / or permanently deforming. For example, in some instances, during advancement from a first position to a second position, the distal end face of the catheter may strike an obstacle or the like, which may at least temporarily impede and / or prevent further movement of the distal end portion of the catheter. In such a case, as the user continues to apply force to an actuator operable to move the catheter toward the second position, the unsupported portion of the catheter within the housing may bend, flex, bow, sag, and / or transition from an "unclutched" configuration to a "clutched" configuration. In other words, a portion of the force applied by the actuator to advance the catheter toward the second position, and a portion of the force that may otherwise be acted upon, may result in deflection, bending, flexing, bowing, etc. of a portion of the catheter within the housing. In this manner, it is possible to reduce the forces transmitted to and / or by the distal surface of the catheter (e.g., an obstacle), thereby reducing damage to the catheter, the access device through which the catheter is advanced (e.g., a PIV), the venous structures (e.g., the venous wall), etc.

[0168] In some embodiments, the amount of catheter deflection (e.g., "clutch") and / or the amount of force transmitted through the catheter can be adjusted or regulated by increasing or decreasing the catheter durometer, catheter length, housing length, and / or the amount of support provided, for example, by internal support members (e.g., guides, tracks, rails, springs, pads, posts, etc.). In some embodiments, when bowing, bending, deflecting, and / or clutching, a portion of the catheter may strike and / or contact the interior surface (e.g., sidewall) of the housing. In some embodiments, this arrangement can provide a visual, audible, and / or tactile indication that the distal end face of the catheter has struck an obstacle. In some embodiments, internal support members such as pads (described above) can be used to "tune" and / or change, for example, an audible output or indicator and / or a tactile drop output or indication that the distal end face of the catheter has struck an obstacle.

[0169] Although not previously discussed in connection with a particular embodiment, it should be understood that any of the embodiments described herein can be manipulated to retract the catheter from its second position to its first position. For example, in some instances, after withdrawing a desired volume of bodily fluid through the catheter of the device, the user can move the actuator in a substantially opposite direction by manipulating the device (e.g., rotating counterclockwise, moving proximally, and / or making any other suitable movement). In that way, the catheter can be retracted into the housing. In other words, the user (e.g., after use, etc.) can move the actuator to move and / or transition the catheter proximally to retract a distal end portion of the catheter into the housing.

[0170] Any of the aspects and / or features of the embodiments illustrated and described herein can be modified to affect the performance of the delivery device. For example, the radius of curvature of a portion of the actuator can be increased or decreased to facilitate movement of a catheter coupled to and / or in contact with the portion of the actuator. In another embodiment, the length of the housing can be increased or decreased to accommodate a catheter having an increased or decreased length, respectively. As another example, any component of the delivery device described herein can be formed from any suitable material that can provide the desired hardness, durometer, and / or stiffness of that component.

[0171] Where the methods and / or schematics above indicate that certain events and / or flow patterns occur in a particular order, the order of certain events and / or flow patterns may be changed. Additionally, certain events may be performed simultaneously in parallel processes, where possible, as well as sequentially.

Claims

1. A device comprising a housing, a catheter, and an actuator, the housing has a first port and a second port, the second port being connectable to an indwelling vascular access device; the catheter having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, at least a portion of the catheter being disposed within the housing such that the proximal end portion is received in the first port; the actuator is partially disposed within the housing and selectively engages a portion of the catheter within the housing; the actuator is configured to rotate an angular distance relative to the housing to move a distal end portion of the catheter a linear distance from a first position to a second position; the first position is a position in which a distal end portion of the catheter is disposed within the housing; the second position is a position where the distal end portion of the catheter is distal to the indwelling vascular access device when the catheter extends through a second port and the second port is coupled to the indwelling vascular access device; the linear distance is greater than the angular distance; The actuator includes a first spool structure and a second spool structure at least partially disposed within the first spool structure; A first channel is defined between an outer surface of the first spool structure and an inner surface of the housing, a second channel is defined within the second spool structure, and a third channel is defined between the first spool structure and the second spool structure. An apparatus comprising:

2. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a portion of the housing has a circular cross-sectional shape.

3. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein each of the first and second ports extends from a peripheral surface of the housing.

4. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein an axis defined by a lumen of the first port is substantially parallel to an axis defined by a lumen of the second port.

5. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein a proximal end portion of the catheter is coupled to the first port and maintained in a fixed position as the catheter moves from a first position to a second position.

6. A device comprising a housing, a catheter, and an actuator, the housing has a first port and a second port, the second port being connectable to an indwelling vascular access device; the catheter having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, at least a portion of the catheter being disposed within the housing such that the proximal end portion is received in the first port; the actuator is partially disposed within the housing and defines an interior channel; the actuator and the housing collectively define an outer channel; the actuator is rotatable relative to the housing to move the catheter between a first position and a second position; the catheter in a first position extends within the housing from a first port, through the outer channel and the inner channel, to the second port; the catheter in a second position extends within the housing from a first port, through the inner channel, to the second port; the actuator has a first engagement structure and a second engagement structure disposed within the housing, the first engagement structure being larger than the second engagement structure; the inner channel extends between the first engagement structure and the second engagement structure; The outer channel extends between the actuator and the housing. An apparatus comprising:

7. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the actuator is configured to rotate an angular distance relative to the housing to move the distal end portion of the catheter a linear distance from a first position to a second position, the linear distance being greater than the angular distance.

8. a distal end portion of the catheter is disposed within the housing when the catheter is in a first position; When the catheter is in the second position and the second port is connected to the indwelling vascular access device, the distal end portion of the catheter is distal to the vascular access device.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7 .

9. 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein a distance between the first port and the second port via the inner channel is less than the linear distance.

10. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein a proximal end portion of the catheter is fixedly connected to a first port, the first port being connected to a fluid reservoir via a secondary catheter, the secondary catheter being in fluid communication with the proximal end portion of the catheter.

11. the first engagement structure has an outer surface and an inner surface, the second engagement structure has an outer surface and an inner surface; a first portion of the outer channel is defined between an outer surface of a first engagement structure and an inner surface of the housing; a second portion of the outer channel is defined between an outer surface of a second engagement structure and an inner surface of the housing; The inner channel is defined between an inner surface of the first engagement structure and an inner surface of the second engagement structure.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6 .

12. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein the catheter in a first position extends from a first port, through a first portion of the outer channel, through the inner channel, through a second portion of the outer channel, and to a second port.

13. 13. The device of claim 12, wherein the actuator rotates between a first angular position and a second angular position, the actuator in the first angular position having an orientation relative to the housing such that the catheter extends through the inner channel from a position proximate the second port to a position proximate the first port.

14. 14. The device of claim 13, wherein the actuator in the second angular position has an orientation relative to the housing such that the catheter extends through the inner channel from a position proximate the first port to a position proximate the second port.

Images