System for facilitating instrument delivery to a catheter assembly - Patent Application 20070122997

Abstract

To provide a blood vessel access device, and a related system and method.SOLUTION: A catheter adapter includes a distal end, a proximal end, a lumen extending between the distal end and the proximal end, and a side port. A central axis of a fluid path extending through the side port may be disposed at an angle with respect to a longitudinal axis of the catheter adapter. The catheter adapter includes a wedge disposed in the lumen of the catheter adapter. A septum is disposed in the lumen of the catheter adapter. The septum is provided with a guide part which directs movements of an instrument when the instrument is delivered to the distal end through the catheter adapter from the side port. The guide part is provided with the septum provided with a smooth curve extending into the wedge.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3C

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] background Catheters are commonly used for a variety of infusion therapies. For example, catheters may be used to infuse fluids, such as normal saline, various medications, and total parenteral nutrition, into a patient. Catheters may also be used to withdraw blood from a patient. [Background technology]

[0002] A common type of catheter is the over-the-needle peripheral intravenous catheter ("PIVC"). As the name suggests, an over-the-needle PIVC may be mounted over an introducer needle with a sharp distal tip. The PIVC and introducer needle may be assembled so that the distal tip of the introducer needle extends beyond the distal tip of the PIVC, with the bevel of the needle pointing up, away from the patient's skin. The PIVC and introducer needle are generally inserted at a shallow angle through the skin into the patient's vasculature.

[0003] To confirm proper placement of the introducer needle and / or PIVC within the vessel, clinicians typically check for a "flashback" of blood within the flashback chamber of the PIVC assembly. Once needle placement is confirmed, clinicians may temporarily occlude flow within the vessel and remove the introducer needle, leaving the PIVC in place for future blood withdrawals or fluid infusions. The PIVC assembly may also be coupled with an extension set, which may allow for coupling of an infusion or blood withdrawal device at a location remote from the PIVC insertion site.

[0004] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any shortcomings or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is provided only to illustrate one example technology area in which some implementations described herein may be practiced. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] overview The present disclosure relates generally to vascular access devices and associated systems and methods. In some embodiments, a catheter assembly may include a distal end, a proximal end, a lumen extending between the distal end and the proximal end, and a side port. In some embodiments, a central axis of a fluid pathway extending through the side port may be disposed at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the angle may be less than 45°. In some embodiments, the angle may be approximately 25°. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In some embodiments, the catheter assembly may include a catheter that may extend distally from the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter may include a PIVC. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the catheter may be glued into the distal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter assembly may include a wedge disposed within the lumen of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the wedge may secure the catheter in the catheter assembly.

[0007] In some embodiments, the catheter assembly may include an insert proximate the wedge. In some embodiments, the insert and / or the wedge may be configured to guide an instrument moving from the side port through the catheter adapter to the distal end. In some embodiments, the insert may be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the wedge may be constructed of a metal or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the interior surface of the wedge and / or the insert may include a lubricant.

[0008] In some embodiments, the insert may include a groove extending along the entire length of the insert. In some embodiments, the groove may be aligned with the side port fluid pathway to allow fluid to flow from the side port fluid pathway through the insert to the distal end. In some embodiments, the wedge may include a mouth, which may include a frusto-conical shape. In some embodiments, the wedge may include a stem proximate the mouth.

[0009] In some embodiments, the distal end of the insert may include a tapered portion that may contact the interior surface of the mouth. In some embodiments, the portion of the groove disposed proximate to the stem and aligned with the central axis of the stem may include an inner diameter that is equal to or less than the inner diameter of the stem.

[0010] In some embodiments, the catheter assembly may include a septum disposed within the lumen of the catheter adapter, hi some embodiments, the septum may include a guide portion that directs movement of an instrument as it is advanced from the side port through the catheter adapter to the distal end.

[0011] In some embodiments, the wedge may include another groove proximate to the tunnel, hi some embodiments, the another groove may be aligned with the side port fluid pathway such that fluid can flow from the side port fluid pathway through the groove and distally into the tunnel.

[0012] In some embodiments, the wedge may be positioned within the lumen of the catheter adapter, hi some embodiments, the wedge may be positioned within the distal end of the catheter adapter such that an instrument advanced from the side port through the catheter adapter to the distal end contacts the interior surface of the body of the catheter adapter before contacting the wedge.

[0013] In some embodiments, the wedge may be disposed within the distal end of the catheter adapter such that an instrument advanced from the side port through the catheter adapter to the distal end contacts the interior surface of the body of the catheter adapter before contacting the wedge. In some embodiments, the wedge may be configured such that an instrument advanced from the side port through the catheter adapter to the distal end contacts the interior surface of the stem without contacting the interior surface of the ostium.

[0014] In some embodiments, the interior surface of the mouth may be angled at about 60° to about 90° relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, an instrument advanced from the side port through the catheter adapter to the distal end may contact the interior surface of a first side of the mouth closer to the side port without or before contacting the side of the mouth opposite the first side.

[0015] In some embodiments, the catheter assembly may include an instrument. In some embodiments, the instrument may include additional catheters or tubing for fluid injection or blood withdrawal, a guidewire, a probe with a sensor, or an optical tubing for disinfection. In some embodiments, the instrument may include a tubing and the guidewire may extend through the tubing.

[0016] In some embodiments, the catheter assembly may include a platform that protrudes from the bottom of the catheter adapter and is configured to contact the patient's skin. In some embodiments, the platform may be angled at about 6° relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0017] In some embodiments, the bottom of the catheter adapter may include a fixation platform configured to contact the patient's skin. In some embodiments, the fixation platform may include a groove, at least a portion of which may be aligned with the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the groove may extend through the fixation platform.

[0018] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed. It is to be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the arrangement and instrumentality shown in the drawings. It is also to be understood that embodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be utilized, and structural changes not recited in the claims may be made without departing from the scope of the various embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0019] Brief description of some of the figures The illustrative embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a prior art catheter assembly. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of an exemplary catheter assembly, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle assembly removed from the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary wedge of the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary wedge of the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3A] 3A is a top perspective view of an exemplary insert of the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the insert of FIG. 3A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is another cross-sectional view of the insert of FIG. 3A showing an exemplary device, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a septum of the example catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a top perspective view of another example wedge, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the wedge of FIG. 5A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5C] 5C is a cross-sectional view of the wedge of FIG. 5A positioned within the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A showing an exemplary catheter adhered within an exemplary catheter adapter, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of another example wedge secured within the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of another example wedge secured within the distal end of the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another example wedge secured within the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another example wedge secured within the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another example insert secured within the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of another example insert secured within the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary platform of an exemplary catheter adapter of the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary catheter adapter of the catheter assembly of FIG. 2A, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] Description of the embodiment 1, there is illustrated a portion of a prior art catheter assembly 2. The prior art catheter assembly 2 includes or corresponds to one or more catheter assemblies of a BD NEXIVA™ Closed IV Catheter System, a BD NEXIVA™ DIFFUSICS™ Closed IV Catheter System, or a BD PEGASUS™ Safety Closed IV Catheter System.

[0022] The catheter adapter 4 of the prior art catheter assembly 2 includes a septum 6. The septum 6 is at least partially disposed within a septum housing 8, which may include a canister. In some embodiments, the septum housing 8 prevents the septum 6 from becoming dislodged or unstable, thereby preventing fluid leakage from the catheter adapter 4. An introducer needle may penetrate the septum 6, but the septum 6 seals the proximal end 7 of the catheter adapter 4 against fluids that may instead enter the lumen of the catheter adapter 4 through a side port 9. The side port 9 and / or the fluid pathway extending through the side port 9 may be disposed at 45° relative to the longitudinal axis of the catheter adapter 4.

[0023] 2A-2B, in some embodiments, a catheter assembly 10 may include a catheter adapter 12, a catheter 14 extending distally from the catheter adapter 12, and an extension tube 16 extending from the catheter adapter 12. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 12 may include a side port 18 extending from a body 19 of the catheter adapter 12. In some embodiments, the extension tube 16 may extend from the side port 18. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 12 may include a proximal end 20, a distal end 22, and a lumen extending therebetween. In some embodiments, the catheter 14 may comprise a peripheral intravenous catheter ("PIVC"). In some embodiments, the catheter assembly 10 may include one or more features of prior art catheter assemblies 2, such as, for example, a septum 6.

[0024] In some embodiments, the catheter assembly 10 may include a connector 24, which may be coupled to the extension tube 16. In some embodiments, the connector 24 may be configured to couple the catheter assembly 10 to a fluid infusion and / or blood collection device. In some embodiments, the extension tube 16 may include a clamp 17, which may selectively close the extension tube 16 to prevent blood or another fluid from flowing therethrough.

[0025] In some embodiments, the catheter assembly 10 may be removably coupled to a needle assembly, which may include a needle hub 26 and an introducer needle 28. In some embodiments, in response to the introducer needle 28 being inserted into a patient's vein, a flashback of blood may flow through the sharp distal tip of the introducer needle 28 and may be visible to a medical practitioner between the introducer needle 28 and the catheter 14 and / or at another location within the catheter assembly 10.

[0026] In some embodiments, in response to confirming that the catheter 14 is positioned within the patient's blood vessel via blood flashback, the needle assembly may be detached from the catheter assembly 10. In some embodiments, when the needle assembly is coupled to the catheter assembly 10, the introducer needle 28 of the needle assembly may extend through a septum disposed within the lumen of the catheter adapter 12.

[0027] 2C , in some embodiments, the side port fluid pathway 34, or the fluid pathway extending through the side port 18, may be disposed at an angle θ relative to the main body fluid pathway 36, or the fluid pathway of the main body 19. More specifically, in some embodiments, the central axis 38 of the side port fluid pathway 34 may be disposed at an angle θ relative to the central axis of the main body fluid pathway 36, which may be aligned with the longitudinal axis 40 of the catheter adapter 12. In some embodiments, the angle θ may be less than 45°. In some embodiments, the angle θ may be between about 15° and about 35°. In some embodiments, the angle θ may be between about 25°. In some embodiments, the angle θ may be between about 10° and about 25°.

[0028] In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may be delivered to the patient's vasculature via the side port fluid pathway 34 and the main body fluid pathway 36. In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may include additional catheters for fluid injection or blood withdrawal, guidewires, sensored probes, or optical tubes for sterilization. In these embodiments, the instrument 42 may be advanced distally through the catheter 14 from the side port fluid pathway 34 to the main body fluid pathway 36, and the angle θ may facilitate the advancement of the instrument 42. In some embodiments, the clinician may advance the instrument 42 distally from the side port fluid pathway 34 to the main body fluid pathway 36 and through the catheter 14 while the catheter 14 is indwelling within the patient's vasculature. Thus, minimal displacement or disruption of the catheter assembly 10 may be desired.

[0029] As shown in the prior art catheter assembly 2 of FIG. 1 , if the angle θ were 45°, this could increase the difficulty or force required to “turn the corner” or move the instrument 42 from the side port 18 through the catheter 14 to the distal end. This force could lead to displacement or destruction of the catheter assembly 10. Furthermore, if the angle θ were 45°, this could result in the instrument 42 making a large bend, which may be undesirable. Furthermore, if the angle θ were 45°, this could result in the instrument 42 contacting the mouth 44 of the wedge 46 as it enters the main body fluid path 36, which could stop the instrument 42 or make it difficult to advance distally. In some embodiments, the angle θ may be 45°, and other features may be used to facilitate a smooth transition of the instrument 42 around the bend from the side port fluid path 34 to the main body fluid path 36 through the catheter 14. For example, in some embodiments, the angle θ may be 45°, and the angle of the mouth 44 may be varied.

[0030] In some embodiments, the wedge 46 may be used to secure the catheter 14 within the catheter adapter 12. In some embodiments, the wedge 46 may be funnel-shaped having a mouth 44 and a stem 48. In some embodiments, the mouth 44 and the stem 48 may be annular. In some embodiments, the mouth may be flared or may include a frusto-conical shape. In some embodiments, the stem 48 may include a constant inner diameter along at least a portion of the length of the stem 48. In some embodiments, the stem 48 may be generally tubular. In some embodiments, the stem 48 may be inserted into the proximal end of the catheter 14. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the mouth 44 may increase proximally and may be larger than the inner diameter of the stem 48. In some embodiments, the mouth 44 may be press-fit into the catheter adapter 12.

[0031] In some embodiments, the angle θ may be less than 45°, directing the instrument 42 directly into the stem 48 as it is advanced from the side port 18 through the catheter 14 to the distal end, thereby bypassing or preventing contact between the instrument 42 and most or all of the mouth 44. In some embodiments, the interior surface of the mouth 44 may be perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the central axis 38, such that when the instrument 42 contacts the mouth 44, it may stop or have difficulty progressing to the distal end. On the other hand, in some embodiments, the interior surface of the stem 48 may be more parallel to the central axis 38, such that if the instrument 42 first contacts the stem 48 portion of the wedge 46 as opposed to the mouth 44, the instrument 42 may be redirected down the body fluid path 36 with much less resistance. In some embodiments, the transition radius 50 between the mouth 44 and the stem 48 may be approximately 0.035 inches (approximately 0.0889 centimeters). In some embodiments, the transition radius 50 may be between about 0.002 inches and about 0.015 inches (about 0.00508 centimeters and about 0.0381 centimeters).

[0032] Referring now to FIG. 2D , in some embodiments, the transition radius 50 between the mouth 44 and the stem 48 may be larger than, for example, FIG. 2C , which may allow the device 42 to bend at a larger radius than before and reduce the force required to advance the device 42 through the catheter 14 around the bend. In some embodiments, the wedge 46 may be constructed of metal. In these embodiments, forces may be reduced because metal does not deform and does not create a catch point during initial contact with the device 42. Metal also tends to have a lower coefficient of friction with other materials than plastic, which may reduce insertion force. In some embodiments, the wedge 46 may be constructed of other suitable materials. In some embodiments, the interior surface of the wedge 46 may be curved along all or part of the length of the wedge 46.

[0033] In some embodiments, a larger transition radius 50 may be achieved through a smooth transition between the mouth 44 and the stem 48, as shown, for example, in FIG. 2D. In some embodiments, the transition radius 50 may be about 0.075 inches (about 0.1905 centimeters). In some embodiments, the transition radius 50 may be between about 0.015 inches and about 0.100 inches (about 0.0381 centimeters and about 0.254 centimeters).

[0034] 3A-3C, in some embodiments, an insert 52 may be disposed within a lumen 54 of the catheter adapter 12, which may include the body fluid pathway 36. In some embodiments, the insert 52 may facilitate traversal of the bend between the longitudinal axis 32 and the central axis 38 of the side port 18 by the instrument 42. In some embodiments, the insert 52 may be disposed proximate to the wedge 46. In some embodiments, the insert 52 may turn before it passes the proximal edge of the mouth 44, as shown, for example, in FIG. 3C.

[0035] In some embodiments, the insert 52 may include a groove 56, which may extend along the entire length of the insert 52. In some embodiments, the insert 52 may be oriented within the lumen 54 such that the groove 56 is aligned with the side port fluid pathway 34 to allow fluid to flow distally from the side port fluid pathway 34 through the insert 52.

[0036] In some embodiments, the distal end 58 of the insert 52 may include a tapered portion 59, which may contact the interior surface of the mouth 44. In some embodiments, the angle of the tapered portion 59 may correspond to the angle of the interior surface of the mouth 44 such that the distal end 58 of the insert 52 fits within the mouth 44. In some embodiments, the upper portion 60 of the groove 56 may include a generally cylindrical shape and / or may be concentric with the center of the stem 48.

[0037] In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical shape of the upper portion 60 may have an inner diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the stem 48 so that as the instrument 42 is advanced distally, the instrument 42 "drops" the insert 52 into the wedge 46 without any derailment points. In some embodiments, the insert 52 may extend to the proximal end of the stem 48 so that the generally cylindrical shape of the upper portion 60 guides the instrument 42 directly into the stem 48.

[0038] In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may enter the main body fluid pathway 36 from the side port fluid pathway 34, and the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may contact the upper portion 60 of the groove 56 without first contacting the interior surface of the body 19 that forms the lumen 54. In some embodiments, after contacting the upper portion 60 of the groove 56, the instrument 42 may then slide distally along the generally cylindrical shape until the instrument 42 enters the stem 48.

[0039] In some embodiments, the insert 52 may prevent the instrument 42 from extending too far beyond the longitudinal axis 40 of the catheter adapter 12 when the instrument 42 is advanced from the side port 18, such that the instrument 42 must move distally through the stem 48 and return to the longitudinal axis 40. In these and other embodiments, the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may be positioned near or adjacent to the longitudinal axis 40 when the distal end 62 contacts the upper portion 60 of the groove 56.

[0040] In some embodiments, the insert 52 may allow the instrument 42 to begin bending proximal to the mouth 44 of the wedge 46, which may increase the overall bend radius of the instrument 42 and reduce the force required to induce a bend in the instrument 42. In some embodiments, the insert 52 may be used with an angle θ of 45° or less (see, e.g., FIGS. 2C-2D ). In some embodiments, the angle θ may be approximately 25°, which may facilitate distal movement of the instrument 42 through the catheter assembly 10.

[0041] In some embodiments, the insert 52 may be asymmetrical, allowing for a much larger bend radius of the appliance 42 and thus reducing the peak force required to force the appliance 42 around the bend. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the insert 52 may be transparent. In some embodiments, the wedge 46 may include fewer or more 360° circles than those illustrated in FIG. 3A to allow for better flashback visibility. In some embodiments, one or more grooves may be added to the interior and / or exterior surfaces of the insert 52 to improve flashback. In some embodiments, the insert 52 may be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as, for example, plastic or metal.

[0042] Referring now to FIG. 4 , in some embodiments, the exterior surface of the septum 64 may include a guide portion 66 that directs the movement of the instrument 52 as it is advanced from the side port 18 through the catheter 14 to the distal end. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the guide portion 66 may include a smooth curve. In some embodiments, the guide portion 66 may be smooth. In some embodiments, the septum 64 may include one or more features of the insertion portion 52. In some embodiments, the septum 64 may be positioned proximate the wedge 46. In some embodiments, the guide portion 66 may redirect the instrument 42 before it passes the proximal edge of the ostium 44, as shown, for example, in FIG. 4 .

[0043] In some embodiments, the septum 64 may be oriented within the lumen 54 such that the guide portion 66 is aligned with the side port fluid pathway 34 such that fluid may flow from the side port fluid pathway 34 along the guide portion 66 to the distal end.

[0044] In some embodiments, the distal end of septum 64 may include a tapered portion 70, which may contact the interior surface of mouth 44. In some embodiments, the angle of tapered portion 70 may correspond to the angle of the interior surface of mouth 44 such that the distal end of septum 64 fits within mouth 44.

[0045] In some embodiments, the distal end of the septum 64 may be positioned closer to the longitudinal axis 40 than the interior surface of the stem 48 so that when the instrument 42 is advanced distally, the instrument 42 "drops" the guide portion 66 proximal to the distal end into the wedge 46 without a derailment point. In some embodiments, the septum 64 may extend to the proximal end of the stem 48 such that the septum 64 guides the instrument 42 directly into the stem 48.

[0046] In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may enter the main body fluid pathway 36 from the side port fluid pathway 34, and the distal end 62 (see, e.g., FIG. 3C ) of the instrument 42 may contact the guide portion 66 without first contacting the interior surface of the body 19 that forms the lumen 54. In some embodiments, after contacting the guide portion 66, the instrument 42 may then slide distally along the guide portion 66 until the instrument 42 enters the stem 48.

[0047] In some embodiments, the guide portion 66 may prevent the instrument 42 from extending too far beyond the longitudinal axis 40 of the catheter adapter 12 when the instrument 42 is advanced from the side port 18, such that the instrument 42 must move distally through the stem 48 and return to the longitudinal axis 40. In these and other embodiments, the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may be positioned near or adjacent to the longitudinal axis 40 when the distal end 62 contacts the guide portion 66.

[0048] In some embodiments, guide portion 66 may allow instrument 42 to begin bending proximal to mouth 44 of wedge 46, which may increase the overall bend radius of instrument 42 and reduce the force required to induce a bend in instrument 42. In some embodiments, guide portion 66 may be used with angle θ of 45° or less (see, e.g., FIGS. 2C-2D). In some embodiments, angle θ may be approximately 25°, which may facilitate distal movement of instrument 42 through catheter assembly 10.

[0049] In some embodiments, the septum 64 may be constructed of a resilient material such as, for example, silicone rubber or polyisoprene. In some embodiments, the septum 64 may be constructed of another type of material. In some embodiments, the septum 64 may include one, two, three, or more pieces.

[0050] 5A-5C, a wedge 72 is illustrated, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the wedge 72 may include one or more features of the insert 52 described with respect to FIGS. 3A-3C. In some embodiments, the wedge 72 may facilitate the instrument 42 traversing the bend between the longitudinal axis 32 and the central axis 38 of the side port 18. In some embodiments, the wedge 72 may connect the catheter 14 to the catheter adapter 12.

[0051] In some embodiments, wedge 72 may include a groove 74 that may extend along the proximal end of wedge 72. In some embodiments, wedge 72 may be oriented within lumen 54 such that groove 74 is aligned with side port fluid pathway 34, and fluid may flow from side port fluid pathway 34 distally through groove 74 and into tunnel 76 of wedge 72. In some embodiments, tunnel 76 may be generally cylindrical.

[0052] In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may enter the body fluid pathway 36 from the side port fluid pathway 34, and the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may contact the groove 74, as shown in FIG. 5C , for example. In some embodiments, after contacting the groove 74, the instrument 42 may then slide distally along the groove 74 until the instrument 42 enters and / or advances through the tunnel 76. In some embodiments, the wedge 72 may prevent the instrument 42 from extending too far beyond the longitudinal axis 40 of the catheter adapter 12 as the instrument 42 is advanced from the side port 18.

[0053] In some embodiments, wedge 72 may be used with angle θ of 45° or less (see, e.g., FIGS. 2C-2D). In some embodiments, angle θ may be approximately 25°, which may facilitate distal movement of device 42 through catheter assembly 10. In some embodiments, wedge 72 may be asymmetric, which may allow for a much larger bend radius of device 42, thus reducing the peak force required to force device 42 around a bend.

[0054] In some embodiments, at least a portion of wedge 72 may be transparent. In some embodiments, groove 74 may include fewer or more 360° circles than illustrated in FIG. 5A to allow for better flashback visibility. In some embodiments, one or more grooves may be added to the interior and / or exterior surfaces of wedge 72 to improve flashback visibility. In some embodiments, wedge 72 may be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as, for example, plastic or metal.

[0055] 6, in some embodiments, the catheter adapter 12 may not include a wedge. Instead, in some embodiments, the proximal end of the catheter 14 may be glued into the distal end 22 of the catheter adapter 12. In some embodiments, without a wedge, the diameter of the body fluid path 36 may be increased to facilitate an increased bend radius of the device 42. In some embodiments, a portion of the interior surface of the body 19 of the catheter adapter 12 proximate the bend in the device 42 may be removed to facilitate an increased bend radius. In some embodiments, the interior surface of the body 19 may be asymmetric.

[0056] In some embodiments, the interior surface of the body 19 may include a curve 78, which may be smooth. In some embodiments, the curve 78 may extend to the side port fluid pathway 34 and may be flush with the interior surface of the side port 18 so that there are no derailment points at the transition between the side port 18 and the body 19. In some embodiments, the angle θ may be 45° or less (see, e.g., FIGS. 2C-2D). In some embodiments, the angle θ may be approximately 25°, which may facilitate distal movement of the instrument 42 through the catheter assembly 10.

[0057] 7, in some embodiments, the diameter 80 of the mouth 44 of the wedge 46 may be reduced so as to be slightly larger than the diameter 82 of the stem 48. In some embodiments, the diameter 80 may be located at the proximal end of the mouth 44, as shown in FIG. 7. In some embodiments, the diameter 80 may be large enough to allow the walls of the catheter 14 to be positioned between the wedge 46 and the interior surface of the body 19 to provide a pressing interface between the mouth 44 and the interior surface of the body 19. In some embodiments, the diameter 80 may be between about 0.005 inches and about 0.020 inches (about 0.0127 centimeters and about 0.0508 centimeters).

[0058] In some embodiments, the diameter 80 of the mouth 44 may limit the distance that the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 extends across the longitudinal axis 40 when the instrument 42 is advanced distally. In some embodiments, features shown in one or more figures of this disclosure may be combined. For example, the diameter 80 of the mouth 44 may be used in combination with the curve 78 described with respect to FIG. 6.

[0059] 8, in some embodiments, the wedge 46 may be disposed within the distal end 22 of the catheter adapter 12 and spaced from the side port fluid pathway 34. In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may enter the body fluid pathway 36 from the side port fluid pathway 34, and the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may contact the interior surface of the body 19 without first contacting the mouth 44 of the wedge 46, as shown in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, the interior surface of the body 19 may be smooth, facilitating the distal sliding of the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 without stopping or making it difficult to advance distally.

[0060] 9 , in some embodiments, the mouth 44 of the wedge 46 may be shallow and / or the mouth 44 may be positioned close to or adjacent to the side port fluid pathway 34. In these and other embodiments, the instrument 42 may enter the body fluid pathway 36 from the side port fluid pathway 34, and the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may contact the side of the mouth 44 near the side port 18 without first contacting the interior surface of the body 19. In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may then slide distally across the wedge 46 until the instrument 42 enters the stem 48.

[0061] In some embodiments, the interior surface of the mouth 44 may be angled at between 60° and 90° relative to the longitudinal axis 40. In some embodiments, the maximum outer diameter of the wedge 46 may be approximately equal to the inner diameter of the body 19 proximate or adjacent to the side port fluid pathway 34.

[0062] In some embodiments, a guidewire 84 may be placed within the device 42, which may facilitate advancing the device 42 from the side port 18 around the bend and into general alignment with the longitudinal axis 40.

[0063] 10 , in some embodiments, the proximal portion of the wedge 46 may include an increased diameter with a gradual, smooth slope, which may guide the instrument as it is advanced distally from the side port 18. In some embodiments, the gradual, smooth slope may facilitate bending of the instrument 42 and alignment of the instrument 42 with the longitudinal axis 40 with less friction. In some embodiments, the increased diameter may facilitate a larger bending radius of the instrument, which may reduce the force required to advance the instrument 42 through the catheter 14 around a bend.

[0064] In some embodiments, all or a portion of the interior surfaces of one or more of the following may include lubricious material 86: wedge 46, wedge 72, septum 64, and insert 52. In some embodiments, lubricious material 86 may reduce friction to facilitate movement of instrument 42 distally.

[0065] 11, another insert 88 is illustrated, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, insert 88 may include or correspond to insert 52 of FIGS. 3A-3C. More specifically, in some embodiments, insert 88 may include one or more features of insert 52. In some embodiments, insert 52 may include one or more features of insert 88.

[0066] In some embodiments, the insert 88 may be positioned within the lumen 54 of the catheter adapter 12 to facilitate the instrument 42 traversing the bend between the longitudinal axis 32 and the central axis 38 of the side port 18. In some embodiments, the insert 88 may be positioned proximate the wedge 46. In some embodiments, the insert 88 may redirect the instrument 42 before passing over the proximal edge of the mouth 44, as shown, for example, in FIG.

[0067] In some embodiments, the insert 88 may be oriented within the lumen 54 such that the opening 89 is aligned with the side port fluid pathway 34. In some embodiments, fluid entering the body 19 of the catheter adapter 12 from the side port fluid pathway 34 may flow through the opening 89. In some embodiments, after the fluid flows through the opening 89, the fluid may flow distally through the insert 88 and proximally through the insert 88. More specifically, in some embodiments, the insert 88 may include a cleaning feature 90, which may be positioned proximal to the opening 89. In some embodiments, the cleaning feature 90 may direct a portion of the fluid entering the body 19 proximally through another opening 91 and into a portion of the lumen 54 between the insert 88 and the distal face of the septum 64. Thus, in some embodiments, the cleaning feature 90 may facilitate cleaning of the portion of the lumen 54 between the insert 88 and the distal face of the septum 64. In some embodiments, the irrigation feature 90 may be triangular in shape and may split the fluid entering the body 19 from the side port fluid pathway 34, forcing some of the fluid to be placed proximally and some to be placed distally. In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may extend through the opening 89.

[0068] In some embodiments, the distal end 58 of the insert 88 may include a tapered portion 92, which may contact the interior surface of the mouth 44. In some embodiments, the angle of the tapered portion 92 may correspond to the angle of the interior surface of the mouth 44 so that the distal end 58 of the insert 88 fits snugly within the mouth 44.

[0069] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the insert 88 proximal to the stem 48 may have a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the stem 48 so that when the instrument 42 is advanced distally, the instrument 42 "drops" the insert 88 into the wedge 46 without a derailment point. In some embodiments, the diameter of the inner surface of the insert 88 proximal to the stem 48 may be equal to the inner diameter of the stem 48. In some embodiments, the insert 88 may extend to the proximal end of the stem 48 such that the insert 88 guides the instrument 42 directly into the stem 48.

[0070] In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may enter the main body fluid pathway 36 from the side port fluid pathway 34, and the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may contact the interior surface of the insert 88 without first contacting the interior surface of the body 19 that defines the lumen 54. In some embodiments, after contacting the interior surface of the insert 88, the instrument 42 may then slide distally along the interior surface of the insert 88 until the instrument 42 enters the stem 48.

[0071] In some embodiments, the insert 88 may prevent the instrument 42 from extending too far beyond the longitudinal axis 40 of the catheter adapter 12 when the instrument 42 is advanced from the side port 18, such that the instrument 42 must move distally through the stem 48 and back to the longitudinal axis 40. In these and other embodiments, the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may be positioned near or adjacent to the longitudinal axis 40 when the distal end 62 contacts the interior surface of the insert 88.

[0072] In some embodiments, the insert 88 may allow the appliance 42 to begin bending closer to the mouth 44 of the wedge 46, which may increase the overall bend radius of the appliance 42 and reduce the force required to create the bend in the appliance 42. In some embodiments, the insert 88 may be asymmetrical, which may allow for a much larger bend radius of the appliance 42, thus reducing the peak force required to force the appliance 42 around the bend.

[0073] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the insert 88 may be transparent. In some embodiments, one or more grooves may be added to the interior and / or exterior surfaces of the insert 88 to improve cleanability. In some embodiments, the insert 88 may be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as, for example, plastic or metal.

[0074] 12, according to some embodiments, another insert 93 is illustrated. In some embodiments, insert 93 may include or correspond to insert 52 of FIGS. 3A-3C and / or insert 88 of FIG. 11. More particularly, in some embodiments, insert 93 may include one or more features of insert 52 and / or insert 88.

[0075] In some embodiments, the insert 93 may be positioned within the lumen 54 of the catheter adapter 12 and may facilitate the instrument 42 traversing the bend between the longitudinal axis 40 and the central axis 38 of the side port 18. In some embodiments, the insert 93 may be positioned proximate the wedge 46. In some embodiments, the insert 93 may redirect the instrument 42 before it passes the proximal edge of the mouth 44.

[0076] In some embodiments, the insert 93 may be oriented within the lumen 54 such that the opening 94 is aligned with the side port fluid pathway 34 such that fluid may flow from the side port fluid pathway 34 through the insert 93 to the distal end. In some embodiments, the distal end 58 of the insert 93 may include a tapered portion 96 that may contact the interior surface of the mouth 44. In some embodiments, the angle of the tapered portion 96 may correspond to the angle of the interior surface of the mouth 44 such that the distal end 58 of the insert 93 fits snugly within the mouth 44.

[0077] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the insert 93 proximal to the stem 48 may have a diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the stem 48 so that when the instrument 42 is advanced distally, the instrument 42 "drops" the insert 93 into the wedge 46 without a derailment point. In some embodiments, the diameter of the inner surface of the insert 93 proximal to the stem 48 may be equal to the inner diameter of the stem 48. In some embodiments, the insert 93 may extend to the proximal end of the stem 48 so that the insert 93 guides the instrument 42 directly into the stem 48.

[0078] In some embodiments, the instrument 42 may enter the main body fluid pathway 36 from the side port fluid pathway 34, and the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may contact the interior surface of the insert 93 without first contacting the interior surface of the body 19 that defines the lumen 54. In some embodiments, after contacting the interior surface of the insert 93, the instrument 42 may then slide distally along the interior surface of the insert 93 until the instrument 42 enters the stem 48.

[0079] In some embodiments, the insert 93 may prevent the instrument 42 from extending too far beyond the longitudinal axis 40 of the catheter adapter 12 when the instrument 42 is advanced from the side port 18, thereby requiring the instrument 42 to move distally through the stem 48 and return to the longitudinal axis 40. In these and other embodiments, the distal end 62 of the instrument 42 may be positioned near or adjacent to the longitudinal axis 40 when the distal end 62 contacts the interior surface of the insert 93.

[0080] In some embodiments, the insert 93 may allow the appliance 42 to begin bending closer to the mouth 44 of the wedge 46, which may increase the overall bend radius of the appliance 42 and reduce the force required to create the bend in the appliance 42. In some embodiments, the insert 93 may be asymmetrical, which may allow for a much larger bend radius for the appliance 42, thus reducing the peak force required to force the appliance 42 around the bend.

[0081] In some embodiments, at least a portion of insert 93 may be transparent. In some embodiments, one or more grooves may be added to the interior and / or exterior surfaces of insert 93 to improve cleanability. In some embodiments, insert 93 may be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as, for example, plastic or metal.

[0082] Referring now to FIG. 13 , in some embodiments, the bottom of the catheter adapter 12 may include a protruding platform 97, which may elevate the catheter adapter 12 and catheter 14 relative to the patient's skin. In some embodiments, the platform 97 may facilitate positioning the catheter adapter 12 and catheter 14 at an angle of approximately 30° relative to the skin, which may be approximately equal to the angle of insertion of the catheter 14 into the skin. Thus, in some embodiments, the platform 97 may reduce the "S-shape" that may result from inserting the catheter 14 into the skin at an angle and then having the catheter adapter 12 sit flat on the skin. In some embodiments, the angle α of the platform 97 relative to the longitudinal axis 40 of the catheter adapter 12 may be approximately 6°. In some embodiments, the angle α of the platform 97 relative to the longitudinal axis 40 of the catheter adapter 12 may be approximately 3° to 8°. In some embodiments, the angle α of the platform 97 relative to the longitudinal axis 40 of the catheter adapter 12 may be approximately 3° to 30°. In some embodiments, the top of catheter adapter 12 may or may not include a platform similar to platform 97. In some embodiments, platform 97 may be flat.

[0083] 14 , in some embodiments, the catheter adapter 12 may be coupled to a fixation platform 98, which may include one or more wings. In some embodiments, the fixation platform 98 may include a bottom surface that is configured to contact the patient's skin. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the fixation platform 98 may be generally planar or flat and may include a groove 100 that extends along the longitudinal axis of the catheter adapter 12. In some embodiments, the groove 100 may function as a relief feature to relieve pressure on the patient's vasculature and prevent venous blockage. Typically, the portion of a particular catheter assembly that contacts the skin may be rounded or may include another geometric structure that creates a pressure point on the vasculature.

[0084] All examples and conditional language set forth herein are for educational purposes to aid the reader in understanding the invention and the concepts the inventor has contributed to furthering this technology, and should be construed as not being limited to such specifically set forth examples and conditions. Although embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. a catheter adapter having a distal end, a proximal end, a lumen extending between the distal end and the proximal end, and a side port, wherein a central axis of a fluid pathway extending through the side port is disposed at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the catheter adapter; a wedge disposed within the lumen of the catheter adapter; and a septum disposed within the lumen of the catheter adapter adjacent to the wedge, the septum including a guide portion that directs movement of an instrument as it is advanced from the side port through the catheter adapter to the distal end, the guide portion including a smooth curve that extends into the wedge to prevent derailment points between the side port and the wedge; A catheter assembly comprising:

2. A catheter assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the guide portion is configured for use at an angle of 45° or less than 45°.

3. A catheter assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the guide portion is configured for use at an angle of 25°.

4. A catheter assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the wedge is funnel-shaped having a mouth and a stem.

5. A catheter assembly as described in claim 4, wherein the terminal end of the septum includes a tapered portion, the tapered portion contacting the inner surface of the mouth portion.

6. A catheter assembly as described in claim 4, wherein the terminal end of the septum is positioned closer to the longitudinal axis than the inner surface of the stem.

7. A catheter assembly as described in claim 4, wherein the septum extends to the proximal end of the stem so that the septum guides the instrument directly into the stem.

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