Long-term and midline catheters and related methods

Abstract

Long-term catheter assemblies (100) are described, each comprising a housing (102) having an interior (104) containing a catheter assembly (108), which may include a catheter tube (110) and a needle (112). The catheter tube (110) of the catheter assembly (108) can be placed in a patient's vein, with or without a guidewire, and the long-term catheter assembly (100) can then be activated to separate into two or more housing components (193, 194) or by opening a gate (340, 606a, 606b) to allow separation of the catheter assembly (108) from the housing (102). A needle shield (140) may be included to cover the needle tip (114) of the needle (112) from needlestick injuries.

Description

EXTENDED Dwell and Midline Catheters and Related Methods field of invention The disclosed invention generally relates to needle devices and intravenous (IV) infusion devices, including IV catheters. In particular, IV catheter assemblies are disclosed that have one-handed operation for operation. Background of the invention IV catheters are frequently used for a variety of infusion therapies, including infusing fluids into a patient, drawing blood from a patient, or monitoring various parameters of the patient's vascular system. Catheters are usually connected to a catheter adapter that accommodates the attachment of the IV tubing to the catheter. Blood control catheters include an internal blood control valve that is opened by inserting a male Luer or other object into a proximal end of the catheter adapter. Non-limiting examples of blood control valves are described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0046570, filed August 20, 2009, entitled Systems and Methods for Providing a Flushable Catheter Assembly. After placement of the catheter into a patient's vasculature, a source of IV fluid can be connected to the adapter or hub of the catheter, opening the blood control valve. Therefore, fluid from the IV source can begin to flow to the patient through the catheter. As is well known in the art, the common blood pressure is 10 to 20 centimeters of water. Infusion bags are usually placed about 100 cm above the patient's heart to direct flow toward the patient. At approximately that height, the pressure exerted by the fluid in the infusion bag is much greater than the patient's blood pressure and can therefore flow toward the patient. For patients with different access veins, long-dwelling catheters can be used to assist with difficult intravenous access (DIVA). An extended-dwell catheter is a midline catheter that can be considered a peripherally inserted catheter. However, a typical midline catheter is configured to be inserted into a larger vein than those used for I.V. therapy. standard. The recommended insertion site for the midline catheter is the basilic, cephalic, or median vein in the antecubital fossa. For patients with DIVA, a doctor may use visualization equipment to assist in identifying deep veins for catheter access. In that case, an extended dwell catheter will provide a longer length and more flexible catheter for insertion into the patient. With the addition of a guide wire, this can help reduce the chances of the catheter kinking. Brief description of the invention Extended indwelling catheter assemblies are described. Each extended-dwell catheter assembly comprises a housing having an interior having a catheter assembly located therein, which may comprise a needle, a needle hub, a catheter, and a catheter tube. The cj cznn / zznz / E / Yi catheter tube of the catheter assembly can be placed in a patient's vein, with or without a guide wire, and then the extended dwell catheter assembly can be activated to separate the housing in two or more components of the housing to allow separation of the catheter assembly from the housing. A needle guard may be included with the catheter assembly to cover the tip of the needle from needle sticks. An extended indwelling catheter assembly according to aspects of the invention may comprise: a housing comprising a first structure attached to a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening; a catheter assembly located in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a catheter tube attached to a catheter connector and a needle attached to a needle cone, wherein the needle and the catheter connector project outside of the distal opening of the housing and the needle cone projects out of the proximal opening of the housing, and wherein the catheter connector is slideable within the interior space of the housing from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior space; an upper seam located between the first structure and the second structure along a first side and a lower seam located between the first structure and the second structure along a second side; and wherein the first structure and the second structure are separable from each other along the top seam and the bottom seam. The top seam is above, in elevation, the bottom seam. The catheter connector may comprise an interior cavity and wherein a needle guard may be located in the interior cavity of the catheter connector. The needle guard may include one proximal arm and two arms. The two arms can intersect each other in a ready-to-use position and an activated or protected position when viewing the needle guard from the side. A valve and valve opener may be located within the interior of the catheter hub. The second structure may comprise multiple male retainers and wherein each retainer comprises a tip pointing in a distal direction. The second structure may comprise multiple male retainers and where each retainer may comprise a tip pointing in a proximal direction. The first structure and the second structure may have bottom wall structures that engage each other along respective joining edges. The first structure and the second structure may be joined to non-joining wall structures to define a longitudinal housing opening. The distal opening of the housing may be round and may be formed from two partial cutouts, a cutout formed from the first structure and a cutout formed from the second structure. The needle hub may have a flange extension located in an opening of the housing and an edge of the opening may limit distal movement of the needle hub. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí The needle cone may have a flange that defines a plane that is located orthogonal to the needle, and where the flange is located in a channel of the housing. The housing may comprise a base end and wherein the base end may comprise multiple sides. Multiple sides can define a square or rectangular shape when viewed along an end view. The housing may be separated into a first structure and a second structure. The first frame and the second frame can be separated by separating the male retainers from the female receiving slots or female mating slots. The first structure and the second structure can be separated from each other by applying a compression force to a first lever or upper lever and simultaneously applying a proximally directed force while applying a compression force to a lower lever and applying a distally directed force. The first structure and the second structure can be separated from each other, or at least the proximal ends of the first structure and the second structure can be separated from each other, by sliding a catheter hub along a distal direction. within the interior space of the housing to push against one or two activation ramps located within the interior space. The first structure may comprise multiple mating slots sized and shaped to receive multiple male retainers. A first lever and a second lever may be provided with the housing, the first and second levers may project from different surfaces of the housing. The first lever can be attached to a three-sided cutout in the second structure. The second lever may comprise a proximally oriented curved surface. The second structure may comprise multiple slots and the first structure may comprise multiple tabs. Multiple tabs can engage multiple slots. The coupling can be friction fit or interference fit. The coupling may comprise a positive coupling. The first structure may comprise an end cap component comprising a tab and the second structure may comprise a recess, and wherein the tab of the end cap component may engage the recess. The end cover component located at the distal end of the first structure can be understood as a gate that can be closed to hold a catheter connector within the housing and that can be opened to allow the catheter connector to be separated from the housing. Similarly, an end cap component may be located at the distal end of the second structure and may be understood as a gate that can be closed to hold a catheter connector within the housing and that can be opened to allow the catheter connector to be removed. separate from the accommodation. Together, the two gates in the two structures can be opened to form a large access opening to allow the catheter connector to be separated from the housing. the two gates CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí are rotatable or rotating around the living hinges. The recess of the second structure may be located in an end cover component. The end cap component of the first structure may be attached to a wall of the first structure by an elastic hinge. The end cap component of the second structure may be attached to a wall of the second structure by means of a resilient hinge. The housing may have two live hinges including a first live hinge and a second live hinge, the first structure may oscillate about the first live hinge and the second structure may oscillate about the second live hinge. Another aspect of the invention includes an extended-dwelling catheter assembly comprising a housing comprising a first structure attached to a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening; a catheter assembly located in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a catheter tube attached to a catheter hub and a needle attached to a needle hub, wherein the needle and catheter hub project out of the distal opening of the housing and the needle hub projects out of the proximal opening of the housing, and wherein the catheter connector is slidable within the lumen of the housing from a proximal to a distal position within the lumen; and a first lever projects in a first radial direction from the housing and a second lever projects in a second radial direction from the housing, said second radial direction being opposite to the first radial direction. A plurality of male retainers may mate with a plurality of mating sockets to secure the first frame to the second frame. Another aspect of the invention is an extended indwelling catheter assembly comprising a housing comprising a first structure attached to a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening; a catheter assembly located in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a catheter tube attached to a catheter connector and a needle attached to a needle cone, wherein the needle and the catheter connector protrude from the distal opening of the housing and the needle hub protrudes from the proximal opening of the housing, and wherein the catheter connector is slideable within the interior space of the housing from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior space of the end fixed to a wall of the first structure by means of a first living hinge; and a second end cap component secured to a wall of the second structure by a second live hinge. A plurality of tabs may engage a plurality of slots to secure the first structure to the second structure. A barb adapter may be provided having a body, a channel, a first opening and a second opening for use with a catheter hub. The barb adapter can be attached to an outside of the catheter connector. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí A push tab of a probe connector may be located within an interior of a body of a tab adapter. An extended indwelling catheter assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first structure attached to a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening; a catheter assembly located in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a catheter tube attached to a catheter connector and a needle attached to a needle cone, wherein the needle and the catheter tube protrude from the distal opening of the housing and the needle cone protrudes from the proximal opening of the housing, and wherein the catheter connector is slideable within the interior space of the housing from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior space; an upper seam located between the first structure and the second structure along a first side of the housing and a lower seam located between the first structure and the second structure along a second side of the housing; and wherein the first structure and the second structure are separable from each other along the top seam and the bottom seam. The top seam is above, in elevation, the bottom seam. An extended indwelling catheter assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first structure attached to a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening; a catheter assembly located in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a catheter tube attached to a catheter connector and a needle attached to a needle cone, wherein the needle and the catheter tube protrude from the distal opening of the housing and the needle cone protrudes from the proximal opening of the housing, and wherein the catheter connector is slideable within the interior space of the housing from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior space; and a first lever projects in a first radial direction of the housing and a second lever projects in a second radial direction of the housing, said second radial direction being opposite to the first radial direction. An extended indwelling catheter assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first structure attached to a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening; a catheter assembly located in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a catheter tube attached to a connector of the catheter and a needle attached to a cone of the needle, wherein the needle and the catheter tube protrude through the distal opening of the housing and the needle cone protrudes from the proximal opening of the housing, and wherein the catheter connector is slideable within the interior space of the housing from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior space; a first end cap component attached to a wall of the first structure by a first living hinge; and a second end cap component attached to a wall of the second structure by a second living hinge. A further aspect of the invention is an extended dwell catheter assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first structure and a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening; a catheter assembly located in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a tube of CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí catheter attached to a connector of the catheter and a needle attached to a cone of the needle, wherein the needle and the catheter tube project the distal opening of the housing and the cone of The needle projects the proximal opening of the housing in a ready-to-use position. Wherein the catheter connector is slideable within the interior space of the housing from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior space. A gate assembly comprising a first gate and a second gate, wherein the first gate has a key positioned in an opening of the first structure and the second gate has a key positioned in an opening of the second structure. The first gate may be rotatable about a hinge and the second gate may be rotatable about a hinge. The hinge may be a live hinge. Both hinges can be live hinges. The key that is placed in the opening of the first structure may have a gate side wall and a flange. There may be more than one flange extending from a flat surface of the gate side wall to define the gate. The two cotter pins may be located on opposite sides of one end of the nose that has a hole. The opposite sides can be understood as being on different sides of an axis defined by the hole. The opening in the structure into which the key is fitted may be formed by a first wall slab and a second wall slab. Each of the two wall slabs can have borders. The two wall slabs may be connected along one or more of the edges. At least one edge on one wall slab may connect directly to the other edge of the other wall slab. Two of the edges, one on each wall slab for a total of two, can be connected via a boss. One of the first and second wall slabs may be shaped, such as having angles, curves, a contour, etc., and not simply a flat wall. A barb adapter comprising a body having a first opening, a second opening and a channel, and wherein the barb adapter is connectable to the catheter hub. For example, the barb adapter may be located on the outside of the catheter hub. The catheter connection may be located at least partially within the channel of the barb adapter. A push tab on the catheter hub may project into an interior of the tab adapter. The tab adapter may have a proximally oriented shaped surface. The proximally oriented shaped surface may resemble a curved ramp. Optionally, it can resemble a straight ramp. The formed surface may provide a convenient contact point for a user or healthcare professional to push to move the catheter hub from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior of the housing. Projections or gripping features may be provided on the proximally oriented surface. The distally facing surface of the tab adapter may have a curved or contoured surface. The distally oriented shaped surface may resemble a curved ramp. Optionally, it can resemble a straight ramp. Optionally, the surface may include CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí projections or gripping elements. A top surface and two side surfaces of the distally oriented surface may converge into a tip. The tip may be a narrow tip. The tip may have an end tip. The tip may be shaped like an arrow. The end tip can be used to push against a gate assembly. The tip of the end may push against an abutting edge of the gate assembly. The adjacent edge of the gate assembly may have two adjacent edges that have a seam between them. The two adjacent edges may separate at the seam, such as when pushed by the tip of the end. An extension may be provided having a narrow tip for use with the distally facing surface end tip of the lug adapter. The extension and tip of the end of the distally oriented surface may be called the driving end. The tip of the end of the extension may be arrow-shaped. The tip of the end of the extension may be distal to the tip of the end of the distally oriented surface. The extension may be located below, in elevation, the distally oriented surface. The lug adapter may have side surface portions. The two side surface parts can define a width of the lug adapter. The width can be considered as orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the flange adapter. A projection may extend from the surface of each of the two lateral surface portions. Each projection may further push against the gate assembly after the two gates of the gate assembly are opened at the drive end. The body of the lug adapter may comprise a drive end comprising a tip end. The tip end may be located at a distal end of a distally oriented surface, and wherein the lug adapter may further comprise an extension having a tip end located below, with respect to elevation, the end of the tip. the tip of the surface oriented distally. The gate assembly may comprise two adjacent edge sections bisected by a seam and defining an adjacent edge. The two adjacent edge sections can be separated at the seam. The gate assembly comprises a hook arm that engages a female retainer. The hook arm can be located on the first gate and the female retainer can be located on the second gate. The arrangement can be reversed. The hook arm may have a shank, rod, or stub-type structure with a notch or curve at one end that forms the hook arm. The first gate can be attached to the second gate by means of a fastening strip. The tie strap can be omitted. Each gate may have a male retainer or knuckle to frictionally engage a receiving slot in the opposite gate. Each gate may have a male retainer or a stub axle and a receiving slot. 0107.^177^71^1^ A cylindrical tip section may be provided in the gate assembly that defines a hole. The gate assembly may have a base wall having a guide opening. The guide opening may have a diameter smaller than the diameter of the hole. The guide opening can hold a probe tube having a needle located within the lumen of the probe tube. A further aspect of the invention is an extended indwelling catheter assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first structure attached to a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening; a catheter assembly located in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a catheter tube attached to a connector of the catheter and a needle attached to a cone of the needle, wherein the needle and the catheter tube project the opening distal of the housing and the needle cone projects the proximal opening of the housing, and wherein the catheter connector is slideable within the interior space of the housing from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior space; an upper seam located between the first structure and the second structure along a first side of the housing and a lower seam located between the first structure and the second structure along a second side of the housing, the upper seam located above , in elevation, the lower seam; and wherein the first structure and the second structure can be separated from each other along the upper seam and the lower seam. The catheter connector may comprise an interior cavity and wherein a needle guard comprising a proximal wall and two arms may be located in the interior cavity of the catheter connector. The first structure or the second structure may comprise multiple tabs and the other first structure or the second structure may comprise multiple receiving slots that engage the multiple tabs. The housing may comprise a base end comprising multiple side walls. There may be four side walls defining a square or rectangular cross section. In other examples, the base end may have a round or oval cross section. A first lever and a second lever may be provided with the housing, the first and second levers may project from different surfaces of the base end of the housing. The projection of the first and second levers may be radial from a longitudinal axis of the housing. The first lever can be attached to a three-sided cutout in the second structure. The second lever may comprise a proximally oriented curved surface. The protective cover may comprise a body opening and wherein a push tab on the catheter hub may be located in the body opening. The push tab is slidable from a proximal to a distal position within the body opening. The first lever and the second lever are movable relative to each other to separate the first structure and the second structure. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí The first structure may comprise a gate having a live hinge and the second structure may comprise a gate having a live hinge. A tab may engage a recess to engage the two end cap components together. The first structure may have an activation structure and the second structure may have an activation structure and wherein a space defined by the two activation structures can be sized and shaped to be pushed by the catheter connector to separate the first structure from the second structure. A barb adapter can be placed around the catheter hub. The barb adapter can be placed over a push bar on the catheter connector. A guide wire assembly with a guide wire may extend through the needle. Aspects of the invention may further include a method of manufacturing an extended-dwelling catheter assembly. The method may comprise: forming a housing, the housing comprising a first structure joined to a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening, an upper seam located between the first structure and the second structure a along a first side of the housing and a lower seam located between the first structure and the second structure along a second side of the housing, the upper seam being located above, in elevation, the lower seam; placing a catheter assembly in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a catheter tube attached to a catheter connector and a needle attached to a needle cone, wherein the needle and the catheter tube protrude from the distal opening of the housing and the needle cone protrudes from the proximal opening of the housing, and wherein the catheter connector is slideable within the interior space of the housing from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior space; and wherein the first structure and the second structure are separable from each other along the top seam and the bottom seam. The first structure and the second structure may be separated by moving the first structure in a first direction and the second structure in a second direction. The first structure and the second structure can be separated by advancing the catheter hub in a distal direction to separate two activation structures located within the interior space of the housing. The catheter connector can be separated from the housing by moving two end cap components around two live hinges. A further aspect of the invention is an extended-dwelling catheter assembly comprising a housing comprising a first structure attached to a second structure and having an interior space, said housing having a distal opening and a proximal opening; a catheter assembly located in the interior space of the housing, said catheter assembly comprising a catheter tube attached to a catheter connector and a needle attached to a needle cone, wherein the needle and the tube CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí of catheter protrude from the distal opening of the housing and the needle cone protrudes from the proximal opening of the housing, and where the catheter connector is slideable within the interior space of the housing from a proximal position to a distal position within the interior space; and a gate assembly attached to the housing, the gate assembly comprising a first gate attached to a live hinge and a second gate attached to a live hinge; wherein the two Gates are rotatable about the two live hinges to open the two gates to separate the catheter assembly from the housing. A tie strap can connect the two gates together. The gate assembly may comprise a key comprising a flange for engaging a slot in the housing. Unless a component or structure is described as critical or essential, it may be practiced as optional or with alternatives. In general terms, the extended-dwellness ("ExD") catheter assemblies described herein each comprise a housing and a catheter assembly. The housing is configured to accommodate the catheter assembly during initial puncture, through catheter advancement, through separation of the catheter hub from the needle hub, and then activated to allow separation of the catheter hub from the needle hub. accommodation and allowing the catheter to remain with the patient. Thus, in a ready-to-use position, the needle tip and catheter tube of the catheter assembly may project a distal end of the needle housing and hub, or at least the air vent connected to the hub of the catheter. needle, may extend a proximal opening of the housing. The catheter housing and connector can be separated through a variety of different mechanisms. For example, the housing can be divided into two or more housing parts to release the connector from the catheter, the housing can have parts that oscillate, swivel, or rotate, the housing can have end cap components that open to open an opening of gate at a distal end of the housing to allow the catheter hub to exit the housing, and the housing may have a gate assembly that attaches to the distal end of the housing, and the gate assembly may have one or more gates that open around of a hinge, among other options. The gate assembly may have two gates located in two joinable gate housing bodies, each gate being openable by a live hinge. The two gates can be mated together during initial assembly with the housing through male detents and receiving slots. The two gates can be coupled via a hook arm and a female retainer. The hook arm and female retainer can be in addition to the male retainers and receiving slots or as an alternative. The unique housing designs allow for use with standard or existing catheter assemblies without the need for, although optional, purpose-built catheters. Therefore, standard catheters with extended catheter lengths and midline catheters with catheter lengths of approximately 8-10 cm are readily usable with the housings of the present disclosure, with or without a guidewire. Catheters can be held during cannulation and access CI07í\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí through a guide opening. As the catheter hub is moved distally to position the catheter tube in the patient, the structure(s) defining the guide opening may separate to allow the catheter connector to pass through, as discussed below The guide port can be separated by separating the housing into two or more frames or frame sections The guide port can be separated by opening two gates of a gate assembly located with the housing The gate assembly can be unitarily formed with the housing or it can be formed separately and subsequently attached to the housing. In one example, the extended-dwelling or ExD catheter assembly according to aspects of the present invention comprises a housing having a receiving space or an interior space having a catheter assembly located therein, having a catheter tube and a needle located within the lumen of the catheter tube and extending outwardly a distal end or distal opening of the housing. The catheter connection may be a standard catheter with extended catheter lengths or a midline catheter. A needle tip of the needle may extend a distal opening of the catheter tube. The catheter tube can be attached to a catheter hub, such as with a ferrule or ferrule, and the needle can be attached to a needle hub. The needle hub may extend outwardly at a proximal end of the housing. The needle hub may include a vent plug, which may engage the proximal opening of the needle hub, such as in a Luer fitting. The vent plug may have a vent filter that allows air to be purged, but not blood. Optionally, a guide wire may be incorporated to assist in inserting, positioning and moving the catheter tube of the ExD catheter assemblies in accordance with aspects of the present invention, as further discussed below. In one example, the catheter assembly may comprise a first connector or catheter hub having a needle tube or catheter tube attached thereto and a second connector or needle hub having a needle attached thereto. The first connector or catheter connector may be a connector structure with a distal opening attached to the catheter tube and a proximal opening having a female Luer. Optionally, the catheter connector may be formed from two connector bodies joined together with one of the two connector bodies having a female Luer. The catheter tube has a lumen or hole for receiving the needle and has a distal opening or distal end opening and the needle tip of the needle extends distally of the distal opening in a ready-to-use position, in which the set is ready for venipuncture. The catheter assembly used with the housing can also be called a needle assembly as it incorporates a needle with a needle tip. The needle may include a change in the profile located proximally of the needle tip for use with a needle guard. The tip of the needle extends distally from the opening of the distal end of the catheter tube or tube in the position ready for use with the profile change, if incorporated for use with a needle guard, located proximally from the opening of the distal end of the tube CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí catheter. The change in profile may be a crimp, a bulge, or a buildup of material that has a different profile than other diameter sections of the needle shaft. Such as As used herein, the term proximal is understood to mean an end or side closest to the trained user and the term distal is the opposite end or side. The change in profile can be used to interact with a needle guard during needle retraction after successful venipuncture, as further discussed below. A vent plug is provided at the proximal open end of the second hub or needle hub. The vent may have a vent filter at a proximal end thereof, which is conventional. The catheter tube is attached to the first hub or connector of the catheter by a ferrule or sleeve. The needle guard may be provided in the inner cavity of the first hub or hub of the catheter to cover the needle tip in the guard position. When incorporated, the needle guard may be one of the needle guards described in US Patent No. 6,616,630, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. In some examples, the needle guard may be omitted. If so, the profile change on the needle can also be omitted. In still other examples, a needle guard may be included without also including a profile change in the needle. In still other examples, the needle guard may be located in a third housing between the first connector and the second connector. An example of a needle guard located in a third housing is described in US Patent No. 8,597,249, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. In still other examples, the needle guard may include multiple arms or fingers extending in both a first direction and a second opposite direction as described in U.S. Patent No. 9,387,307, the contents of which are expressly incorporated. hereby for reference. For example, the needle guard may include a first guard body surrounded by a second guard body. In one example, the needle guard may be manufactured from a metallic material and may have an elastic portion that may generate a thrust force. The needle guard may comprise a wall surface that is positioned on one side of the needle and is movable distal to the tip of the needle to protect the tip of the needle from accidental contact therewith. The wall surface may be a needle trap and may move directly in front of or distal to the point of the needle tip. The needle guard may include a proximal wall and two arms extending distally from the proximal wall. The two arms may intersect with each other in the ready-to-use position and in the protective position in which the needle guard covers the tip of the needle, as viewed from the side. In some examples, the two arms of the needle guard may extend in a distal direction without intersecting each other. Two distal walls, one on each arm, can be incorporated to block the tip of the needle. The two distal walls may be deflected outward by the needle in the ready-to-use position and positioned distally from an internal change in profile within the first connector in the ready-to-use position. The internal change in profile within the catheter hub may be a reduced diameter section located adjacent to an inner diameter section of a larger dimension. Elbows on both CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí arms of the needle guard may have a dimension that is greater than the inner diameter at the internal change in profile to restrict proximal movement of the needle guard from the catheter hub to until both arms are no longer skewed outward or until the dimension at both elbows is reduced. Each distal wall of each arm may include a curved edge to facilitate relative movement between the needle guard and the needle. When in the ready-to-use position, the dimension measured between the two joints or elbows, at the intersection between each arm and its respective distal wall, may be larger than the inner diameter of the internal change in profile, which may prevent the needle guard from moving proximally due to relative dimensions. Once the tip of the needle moves proximally of the two distal walls, the two arms can be allowed to move radially inward and one or both distal walls can be closed over the tip of the needle to lock the tip of the needle. needle in a protective position. At this point, the dimension between the two joints or elbows may decrease and is less than the internal dimension of the internal change in profile within the catheter hub, which then allows the needle guard to move proximally and be removed from the catheter hub. catheter connector with needle. In alternative embodiments, the dimension between the two joints or elbows may be equal to or slightly greater than the internal dimension of the internal change in profile and the needle may still move proximally by flexing or squeezing the two joints to traverse the internal change in profile. . The first hub or catheter hub may have a proximal opening having a nose section of the second hub or needle hub disposed therein. The proximal opening of the first connector may have a female Luer to receive a male Luer tip, such as a syringe, IV tubing connector, Luer extension assembly, etc. External threads may be provided on the outer surface at the proximal end of the catheter hub for threaded engagement with a threaded collar of a male threaded Luer tip. A pair of stabilizing fins may extend radially from the first connector to facilitate fixation or anchoring of the first connector to a patient after successful venipuncture. Optionally, the fins can be omitted. The first connector may incorporate a standard IV catheter connector without an injection port. In other examples, the first hub may include an injection port or an integrated extension assembly. If fins are not present on the first connector or connector of the catheter, then the bottom of the first connector may have a flattened surface angled between 2 and 15 degrees from the through axis of the first connector. The first connector may be removably attached to the second connector by receiving the nose section of the second connector in the proximal opening thereof. A flange or extension may be provided on the second connector and together with the nose section define a space having part of the first connector located therein. Optionally, the flange or extension may be omitted, and a stub axle or other surface coupling features may be provided. The stub axle may be the male part of a key fitting spaced through or partially into the Luer type threads to prohibit rotation of the CI07í\C\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí second connector with respect to the first connector. The proximally oriented end surface of the first core abuts the distally oriented surface of the step on the outer surface of the second connector located at the proximal end of the nose section, which is located within the first connector. This pillar can set the amount of protrusion of the needle tip out of the catheter tube. The stub axle may be an optional structural feature. The second connector may have a body having an optional interior cavity having the proximal end of the needle projecting therefrom. The inner cavity can function as a primary blood return chamber. The proximal opening of the body may have a female Luer for receiving the vent cap or a syringe tip therein and the exterior may be threaded or unthreaded. In one example, the exterior of the body of the second connector is generally cylindrical and without threads. The first and second connectors may be made of plastic materials, such as by plastic injection. A push tab may be provided with the first hub or hub of the catheter. The push tab may be located on an outer surface of the first connector at a location distal to the outer threads to avoid interfering with the outer threads. For example, the push tab should be positioned sufficiently distal from the external threads and generally at the 12 o'clock position of the catheter connector so that when a threaded male connector, such as a syringe type with a threaded collar, is Connect to the threads of the first connector, the push tab does not interfere with the connection. In some examples, the push tab should be positioned distal enough from the external threads so that when the push tab is folded, the push tab does not interfere with the connection. In some examples, the catheter assembly may incorporate a valve and a valve opener. For example, a valve and valve opener may be located within the catheter hub. During use, the valve opener may be pushed distally toward the valve to open the one or more slots formed with the valve to open a fluid passage through the valve for fluid flow. An example of a valved catheter assembly with a valve and a valve opener is described in US Patent No. 8,333,735, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. The valve opener may have a nose section having an orifice and a plunger section located proximally of the nose section. The nose section may be pushed toward the valve to open the one or more slots in the valve, such as three slots defining three flaps. The plunger section may comprise two or more plunger components having a space between them. The gap may allow fluid to flow through these components of the plunger and through the hole in the nose section. A housing according to aspects of the present ExD catheter assembly comprises a left frame or first frame and a second frame or right frame joined together. Each structure comprises a nose portion, a body portion, and a base portion. The two portions of the nose can be joined together to form one end of the nose, the two portions of the body CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí can be joined together to form a body, and the two portions of the base can be joined together to form one end of the base. In one example, the nose tip or nose portion is provided with a nose tip having an elongated cylindrical structure having a hole to accommodate the catheter tube and the needle, which is located within the catheter tube. catheter. The nose end or nose portion may further include a nose base, which has an enlarged portion formed with the tip, and a conical distal portion. Multiple support projections or fins may be provided at the intersection between the tip and the nose base of the housing. In other examples, the nose end may be a spherical or rounded dome having an opening to accommodate the catheter tube and needle. The housing body may have an interior space for housing a catheter assembly, which may be a catheter assembly as described with reference to Figure 2 and elsewhere. A body opening or first opening opens into the interior space. The opening of the body may extend from the end of the nose to the end of the base. The body opening may be located between two upper edges of the first and second structures. In one example, a second opening opposite the first opening may be provided with the body so that the interior space can be accessed from the two openings in the body. Thus, the body may therefore have a through passage, between the distal end and the proximal end of the housing, defined by the two openings in the body. In other examples, the body only has a single opening leading to the interior space with the opposite side of the body being solid or surrounded by wall surfaces of the first structure and the second structure. Where the housing incorporates a unibody opening, the opening may be located at the top of the housing, with respect to elevation, to allow the user to view it as the ExD catheter assembly is used. Optionally, the closed side may have small windows or openings for access or ventilation, but not a full opening, such as that of the single body opening. The base or base end of the housing may extend from the body and may have multiple sides. Multiple sides can define a base with a polygonal cross section. In one example, the base may have four sides that define an interior space, which is open to the interior space of the body. In other examples, the base or base end may incorporate a generally elongated cylinder or a non-circular cylinder. The four sides can be called the first, second, third, and fourth sides. The four sides can also be referred to as the top, bottom, left and right sides. These specific nomenclatures are given to allow calling on a particular side in relation to other sides only, but are not structurally limiting unless the context indicates otherwise. The base or end of the base may have an open proximal end to allow the needle taper to extend proximally therefrom, proximal to an end surface, in the ready-to-use position. The first side and the second side of the base end may each have an opening for CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí allow visualization and access to the interior space of the base end, such as to facilitate or assist the assembly of the catheter assembly therein. The upper side of the base end may be provided with a first lever or upper lever and the lower side may be provided with a second lever or lower lever. When a user simultaneously applies a compression force and a distally directed force on the upper lever and a compression force and a proximally directed force on the lower lever, the user can cause the left housing structure and the right housing structure to move. move relative to each other and the holds on the first frame and the second frame to separate. This in turn will allow the housing to be separated into separate housing components, for example into the left frame and the right frame. By manipulating the first lever or the top lever and the bottom lever, the user can cause the housing to separate into two or more housing components. Separating the housing into housing components may then expose the catheter assembly to be separated from the housing after successful venipuncture so that the catheter hub can be attached to an IV line and secured to the patient, such as by use of tape. adhesive or fixation dressing. In other examples, by rearranging the retainers or mating tabs between the left housing structure and the right housing structure, the user can simultaneously apply a compression force and a proximally directed force on the upper lever and a compression force and a distally directed force on the second lever or lower lever to move the two housing sections relative to each other and the detents on the first frame and the second frame to move apart. The exterior of the housing may have multiple surface ornamentations, such as on the exterior surface of the first or left structure. A similar set of surface ornamentation can be provided with the right or second structure. A generally flat top edge can be provided with both body structures. In addition, the more distal edge of the upper lever can be located proximally to the more distal edge of the lower lever. This arrangement can be used to allow quick grasping of the upper lever by a thumb and the lower lever by an outer edge of the index finger to separate the housing into components from the housing. For example, the index finger can push against the proximally oriented curved surface of the lower lever and push distally or in the distal direction. In other examples, the relative arrangements between the upper and lower levers may be altered or arranged differently depending on the types of retainer or snap connections incorporated to hold the first frame and the second frame together. The housing may comprise a wall that opposes the opening of the body along the upper side of the housing. A seam may run longitudinally of the housing, which may mark the interface between the left frame and the right frame of the housing along the body and nose end of the housing. The seam may run from the nose end up to and including through the base end of the housing. However, the seam may be non-linear or CI07í\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí not extend in a straight line. For example, the seam may be off-axis compared to the straight line defined by the seam along the body and end of the nose. The seam at the end of the base may be near the edge or the intersection of the sides, such as the right side and the bottom side. A plurality of pairs of retainers can be incorporated between the left frame and the right frame to secure the two frames together. In one example, a catheter assembly can be located within the housing before the left frame is attached to the right frame, or vice versa. After use, such as after successful venipuncture, the upper lever and the second or lower lever can be actuated to separate the detents to then separate the housing into components, such as to separate the left frame from the right frame, to allow separation of the catheter assembly from the housing. In one example, the upright structure may be provided with the second side and the top side or the third side in the base portion, which are generally at right angles to each other. The first side and the bottom side or the fourth side may be provided with the left frame. To secure the catheter assembly to the right frame, and particularly the needle hub from moving, the lower wall frame or section of the right frame may end with a proximal edge that lies along an axial position in the right frame. Right frame to accommodate the flange or extension on the needle cone. Therefore, the distal edge of the flange can be delimited so that it is not displaced or moved in the distal direction by the proximal edge in the lower wall structure. To ensure that the needle hub moves in the proximal direction, the second side may be provided with a channel and a shoulder at a proximal edge of the channel to retain the flange in the needle hub. The channel may be located on the second side and the corresponding channel on the first side defines a gap or width to accommodate the Luer threads on the catheter hub and the flange width on the needle hub. Non-circular structures for mating the flange and groove channel, such as by using multi-sided structures, can prevent the needle cone from rotating while within the space defined by the base end sides. This in turn can hold the needle hub in the assembled position so that the needle bevel can be oriented in the desired position without premature rotation prior to venipuncture. The second side of the base part may have a channel and a shoulder. Multiple male tabs or retainers may be provided on a bottom edge of the second side. The tabs can incorporate a hook-like structure to engage the female retainers located on the first or left structure. Optionally, there may be more than two retainers or only one retainer. Each of the male retainers may have a distally pointing tip for engaging a female retainer from a position proximal to the female retainer and moving or sliding to a distal position for engagement. For the particular arrangement, the right frame and retainers must be offset or moved in the proximal direction relative to the left frame to separate the male retainers from the female retainers on the left frame. In other examples, the male stops on the right frame can 0107.^0177^71^1^ aiming in the proximal direction so that separation of the male and female frames will require movement of the right frame in the distal direction relative to the left frame to separate the male abutments from the abutments female in the left structure. Along the top side, a cut may be provided to form the top lever. The cutout may be provided with three sides with the fourth side connected to the base of the top lever. The upper lever may be formed to project outwardly away from the direction of the lower edge. The upper lever may have a conical or ramped portion and a contact portion. The contact portion may provide a surface for the user to touch or manipulate. A projection or protuberance may be provided on the bottom surface of the top side and may be recessed from a side edge of the top side. The recessed space between the side edge and the boss can be sized to accommodate the thickness of the first side of the left frame when the left frame is assembled to the right frame. The projection can be thought of as an alignment tab for use in aligning the first side with the side edge so that when assembled with the first side, a generally flush surface is provided between the side edge and the outside of the first side. A second projection or protuberance may be separated from the first projection and may be provided on the bottom surface of the upper side. In one example, the second projection may be aligned with the side edge and may be configured to engage a corresponding slot or recess in the left side or first side of the left frame to register the two frames at the base end along a direction. axial of the housing. In one example, the second projection may have an arrowhead-like structure with two conical edges and a vertex between them. The arrowhead-like structure may be configured to sit in a corresponding seat on the left side of the left structure and the two tapered surfaces may allow the projection to escape from the corresponding seat by allowing the corresponding tapered surfaces to slide relative to each other when The upper lever and the lower lever are clamped and slid relative to each other. A shoulder may form on the undersurface of the upper wall, just distal to the cutout. The shoulder on the bottom surface can be configured to hold the flange on the needle taper, similar to the function of the shoulder on the second side. A tab or retainer with a free end pointing distally may be located on a lateral edge of the bottom wall structure. The tab may engage a corresponding female retainer formed with the left frame. In other examples, additional tabs may be provided along the side edge of the bottom wall structure. Two protuberances may be provided with the distal portions of the right frame. As shown, a bottom boss may be provided on the side edge of the bottom wall structure to engage a slot in the left structure to provide additional rigidity along the seam. A top boss may be provided on the side edge of the base to engage a slot in the left frame to provide additional rigidity along a top seam. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí at the nose end of the housing. The top seam is above, in elevation, the bottom seam. In one example, the right frame has a bottom wall frame, a top wall frame or section, and a side wall frame or section, each with a surface. In one example, the top wall or top wall structure may have a length that extends in the same longitudinal direction as the needle and a width, which is perpendicular or radial to the length. The width of the upper wall structure may be smaller in dimension than the width of the lower wall structure. These different widths between the top and bottom wall structures, for example the top wall structure does not project toward the spire as much as the bottom wall, allow space along the top of the housing and for the bottom closes when the first structure joins the second structure. A shoulder may be provided between the upper wall structure and the upper wall and a raised knuckle distal to the upper lever may be provided. The upstep at the shoulder may provide a relatively larger interior space at the base end of the housing to accommodate the flange on the needle hub and the Luer threads on the catheter hub. The raised stub axle may be disconnected from the contact portion of the upper lever, but may be provided with a tapered surface to imitate the ramp at the base of the upper lever, to appear more symmetrical. A space may be provided between the upper lever and the raised stub axle, which may incorporate separate grip protrusions. The top lever may also incorporate similar separate grip protrusions. The left frame may be configured to mate with the right frame to form the housing in accordance with aspects of the present invention, which are shown and described elsewhere. In one embodiment, the first structure may be provided with a nose portion, a body portion, and a base portion. The left frame and the right frame may be joined together to form a nose end, a body and a base end. In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom wall structure may be provided with an engagement slot for engaging the tab or retainer and a receiving slot for receiving the projection on the right structure. As further described below, the engagement slot may have a retainer to receive a corresponding retainer on the right frame. However, the receiving slot may incorporate a simple channel without mating surfaces to receive the lower projection on the right frame. Furthermore, shown in Figure 9, proximal to the body part 188a, is a base part 190a, which has a left or first side 200 and a lower or fourth side 206 that has the lower lever 216 formed thereon. The first side 200 and the bottom side 206 resemble two wall structures that are placed at right angles to each other with the bottom lever 216 on one of the walls. One or more gripping elements 284 may be provided on the exterior of the lower lever 216. The mating slot may have an opening for the tab to enter, a conical surface, and a tab. The tab on the right frame can enter the gear slot opening and then travel distally to engage the gear slot tab to complete CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYI saw the gear between the tongue and the gear groove. To disable the left and right structures, the tab can be moved in reverse. The tab can be moved proximally with respect to the mating slot. Proximal movement may cause the conical surface of the mating groove to move against the conical surface on the tongue to impart a pair of component forces including a radially directed force to cause the left and right structures to move away from each other to separate the tab of the mating slot. Simultaneously, the lower boss on the right frame can be separated from the receiving slot on the left frame. Similar coupling mechanisms may be provided at the base end of the housing to allow separation of the two structures at the base end. The bottom or fourth side of the base end may comprise two mating grooves formed in the edge of the bottom side. Each of the engagement slots may comprise an opening for receiving the corresponding tab on the lower edge of the second side of the right frame. A lip may be provided in each mating groove with a recessed cavity to receive and engage the fingers in the corresponding tab. The space between the finger of the tongue and the bottom edge may be configured to receive the flange therebetween to engage the tongue in the mating groove. The mating slot toward the distal end of the base section may have an opening that is bounded on at least three sides and may be relatively longer than the length of the corresponding tab to allow axial movement of the tab to disengage from the coupling slot. Optionally, the mating groove at the proximal end of the base section can be bounded on two sides only without a third side to constrain the corresponding tab. The first side of the base part may be provided with an opening and two receiving slots to engage or align with the protrusion and projection on the upper wall of the base section of the right frame. The more distal receiving slot may have a recess formed in the inner surface of the first side while the more proximal receiving slot may have a recess formed in the outer surface of the first side. This arrangement may allow the first side wall structure to rest or pass between the projection and the projection. Like the upright structure, the base portion may be provided with a channel for interacting with the flange on the needle taper. The distal barrier wall of the channel can be provided with a contour shaped to accommodate the catheter connector, when the left frame is attached to the right frame and the catheter connector is located between them or is located within the lumen of the housing. In use, the ExD catheter assembly can be advanced against a patient, to a selected catheter location, such as a deep or superficial vein. The user can pierce the target vein with the guidance of a viewing machine, such as an ultrasound monitor with an ultrasound probe. Primary blood recoil can be observed flowing towards the needle cone. The insertion angle of the ExD catheter assembly can then be lowered before cj cznn / zznz / B / Yi is further advanced the ExD catheter assembly to position the catheter tube deep into the vein. In some examples, a guidewire dispenser having a guidewire extending through the needle lumen can be used with the ExD catheter assembly. For example, a SonoStik ® Guidewire Dispenser that has a housing can be placed in the proximal opening of the catheter hub after removing the vent plug and the guidewire projecting through the needle lumen and advancing one way. known in the industry. The guide wire can be used to guide the catheter tube to a desired treatment location within the body. The catheter needle and tubing may advance over the guidewire and stop at or just before the nose end of the catheter hub contacts the skin. If the ExD catheter assembly is used without a guidewire, then the ExD catheter assembly can be advanced without first advancing the guidewire. The healthcare professional can then place their thumb on the upper lever and an index finger against the lower lever to separate the housing into two or more housing components, such as separating the left frame from the right frame, as described above. . Once the housing is separated into smaller components, such as into separate first and second housing structures, the catheter assembly is free of the housing and can be separated from the housing. The user can then retract the needle and needle hub from the catheter hub. For ExD catheter assemblies and their components described hereinafter, it is understood that when a feature is shown but not expressly described and is otherwise the same or similar to the feature(s) described elsewhere, such as the foregoing with reference to to Figures 1 to 14, the described part or parts that are shown in all drawing figures, but are not expressly described due to redundancy and because knowledge is based on a foundation established by prior disclosures, however, they may be understood to be described or taught by the same or similar features expressly set forth in the text for the embodiments in which the feature(s) are described. Stated another way, subsequent disclosures in this application are based on previous disclosures unless the context indicates otherwise. Therefore, it is understood that the disclosure teaches a person of ordinary skill in the art the disclosed embodiments and the features thereof without having to repeat similar components and features in all embodiments, as a skilled craftsman would not be ignorant of structural features. similar having read about them in several previous paragraphs nor would I be ignorant of the knowledge gained from previous descriptions set forth in the same specification. As such, the same or similar features shown in the following ExD catheter assemblies incorporate the teachings of previous embodiments unless the context otherwise indicates. Therefore, later disclosed embodiments are contemplated to enjoy the benefit of earlier expressly disclosed embodiments, such as features and structures of previously described embodiments, unless the context indicates otherwise. An alternative ExD catheter assembly shares similar aspects with the ExD catheter assembly of Figures 1 to 14, and in particular a similar housing configuration in which a first CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí frame or left frame and a second frame or right frame are joined to form the housing and can be separated to release the catheter connector from the housing. The housing may comprise one end of the nose, a body and a base end The housing has a body opening opening to an interior space A catheter assembly can be placed in the interior space of the housing. At the distal end, part of the needle, which is attached to a needle hub, and the catheter tube, which is attached to the catheter hub, may project a distal opening from the housing, at the nose end. Optionally, a guidewire dispenser, such as a SonoStik ® Guidewire Dispenser, can be attached to the proximal opening of the needle hub, after removing the vent plug. Each of the first and second two structures may comprise a wall structure comprising a bottom wall section, an upper wall section and a side wall section. A plurality of protrusions or ornaments may be provided on the outer surface of the side wall section, which may embody protrusions of round, elongate, polygonal or irregular shape. The projections may be spaced apart and provided for aesthetics and to facilitate gripping of the housing on the two side walls of the housing. The base end at the proximal end of the housing may be provided with multiple sidewalls, which may include a first sidewall or left sidewall, a second sidewall or right sidewall opposite the first sidewall, a third sidewall or wall upper side wall, and a fourth side wall or lower side wall opposite the third side wall. The side walls at the end of the base define a generally square or rectangular shaped structure that has a hollow interior to accommodate the catheter assembly. In other examples, the side walls may define a differently shaped cross section, such as oval or round. A seam may pass through the upper side wall and the lower side wall, and through the nose end of the housing. The side wall of the grip and the second side wall may define a width of the housing at the end of the base. In one example, the width at the end of the base may be greater than a width of the body immediately distal to the end of the base. In other examples, the width at the end of the base and that of the body immediately distal to the end of the base may generally be the same or equal. The width of the body, measured as a distance between the two side wall sections of the first and second structure, either from their respective outer surfaces or inner surfaces, may be generally constant in the distal direction until approximately the beginning of the area or region of activation of the body, wherein the body widens in the distal direction to a maximum width at a distal end of the body. From there, the width can rapidly decrease to a peak or apex, where the distal opening is located. The activation region of the body can be expanded so that each of the two structures, or at least one of the two structures, can incorporate an activation structure. The activation ramp can be sized and shaped to interface with the catheter connector to allow CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí separation of the housing into two or more housing components. A cutout to receive the flange extension of the needle cone may be provided at the proximal end of the housing, which is defined by partial cuts on the underside of the base end and partial cuts at the proximal ends of the two structures. An opening may be provided near the distal end of the housing, in the bottom wall of the housing. The opening may be elongated, may have a proximal edge, may have a distal edge, and may have lateral edges. In other examples, the opening may have different shapes, as long as the shape does not interfere with the activation ramp located inside the housing. A seam may be provided along the length of the housing and runs from the distal end to the proximal end and may be non-continuous at the rear opening and the front opening. At the distal edge of the front opening, an end cap component may be provided at the distal end of each of the left and right frames. With respect to the end cap component of the second structure, the discussions of which equally apply to the end cap component of the first structure, the end cap component may have a bottom section, a top section, and a side section. In one example, the side section may have a cutout, resembling a semicircle, so that two side sections with two cutouts of two adjacent end cap components may form a passageway or passage opening to accommodate the needle and the catheter tube. The passage formed by the two cuts can provide support and guidance for the needle and catheter to allow venipuncture of an extended length catheter, with or without a guide wire, and a short midline catheter of approximately 8- 10 cm in length without an integrated guide wire. The lower section of the end cap component can be separated from the lower wall of the housing wall by a gap and the upper or upper section of the end cap component can be separated from the upper wall of the housing wall by a gap . Therefore, each end cap component can be attached to the remaining part of the respective left and right structures by a strip or layer of material, which has a thickness. In one example, the strip of material may have the same thickness as the wall thickness of the side section and the front section. In other examples, the strip of material may comprise a notch to thin the thickness of the strip of material so that it is thinner than the thickness of the side section and the front section. In one example, the strip of material connecting the left end cap component to the left frame and the strip of material connecting the right end cap component to the right frame may act as a hinge, such as a live hinge. . The live hinge may allow the end cap component and the respective structure to which it is attached, i.e. the front wall, to rotate, rotate or oscillate relative to each other. For example, if the first and second structures are separated from each other starting from the proximal end when the assembly is activated due to the catheter hub pushing against one or more activation ramps, the first and second structures may swing outward one of the other and twist or rotate around its respective strip of material or living hinge. The two end cap components may remain attached to each other as the two structures twist or rotate around the two live hinges until they too are separated to release the connector from the CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí catheter of the two structures, as further discussed below. The second structure may have joining edges where seams are formed with the joining edges of the first structure. The left frame or first frame and the right frame or second frame may be connected to each other along their respective joining edges. The mating slots, tabs and / or retainers may be used for removable attachment of the two structures, as further described below. The right frame may have a cutout that forms part of the opening at the bottom or bottom of the housing. In the figure, the catheter assembly may be located in the interior space of the housing, which may have a needle and a catheter tube passing through the cutout, and the catheter connector, or at least the push tab of the connector. of the catheter, placed distally from the base end. The needle hub and vent plug may project into the proximal opening of the housing, with the needle hub flange engaged in the housing. A flange extending from the needle cone, which may have a generally square or rectangular shape, may be arranged so that a plane defined by the flange is generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the housing. Portions of the flange that project outwardly from the outer profile of the needle cone may engage a groove formed with the multiple sides of the base end, such as with the first side, second side, third side and fourth side. The slot may be a recessed channel formed in the wall thickness of multiple sides of the end of the base. The groove may be formed continuously across sides other than where the cutout is provided on the fourth side to accommodate extension of the needle cone flange. The slot may be structured to accept, receive, or house the flange in the needle taper, including where the flange transits between the various sides, such as the intersections of the sides of the flange. In the ready-to-use position where the ExD catheter assembly is ready to be used to perform venipuncture, the needle hub can be kept immobile from axial movement by delineating the flange extension of the needle hub from distal movement across the edge of the lower housing in the cut of the two lower wall structures. To delimit the needle taper from moving in the proximal direction, the flange extending from the outside of the needle taper may be placed against the proximal edge of the base end slot. Additionally, non-circular structures for engaging the flange and groove, such as through the use of multi-sided structures, can prevent the needle taper from rotating while within the space defined by the sides of the base end. This, in turn, can hold the needle hub in the assembled position so that the needle bevel can be oriented in the desired position, as assembled, without prematurely rotating before performing the venipuncture. The external threads of the catheter connector may comprise a groove for receiving a tab projecting from the inner surface of the upper side of the end of the base. In other examples, the arrangement may be reversed, and the top side may incorporate a slot and the catheter connector may incorporate a tab. In still other examples, retainers may be provided between the catheter connector and the housing at other locations along their respective structures to CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí attach to both. The coupling ensures proper alignment between the catheter hub and housing in the ready-to-use position and prevents the catheter hub from rotating while attaching to the accommodation. The catheter hub may be structured to slide axially in the distal direction within the interior space of the housing after successful placement of the needle and the catheter hub into a patient's vein while the needle hub remains engaged at the base end of the catheter. accommodation. In one example, the external threads are structured to run or slide on the interior surfaces of the two bottom walls of the housing. For example, a user can push the push tab to advance the needle taper in the distal direction. The push tab may be located between the two top wall sections of the two structures. As shown, the upper edge of the push tab may project above the outer surfaces of the two upper wall sections to present itself for contact and for pushing by a healthcare professional. In some examples, the push tab may be structured so that the top edge of the push tab projects further upward of the two top wall sections to present itself as a larger target for pushing by a healthcare professional. When the healthcare professional pushes the push tab in the distal direction after placement of the catheter tube into the vein, and optionally after advancing a guide wire into the vein to guide the catheter tube, the body of the connect The catheter abuts one or more activation ramps, in the left structure, the right structure, or one of each of the two structures, to cause the two structures to separate starting from the proximal end of the housing. The push tab can be molded to a length or height sufficient to extend above the housing to allow pushing by a healthcare professional. Optionally, a tab extender can be attached to a standard push tab to increase the height of the push tab for pushing by a healthcare professional, as further discussed below. The second structure may have a base portion having a second side, an upper side and a lower side. The upper side and the lower side may be relatively shorter in length than the second side. The top side and the bottom side of the right frame can be called partial sides, since the first frame or the left frame carry similar top and bottom side sections, so that when two partial top sections are joined together at their respective joining edges and the two partial lower sections at their respective joining edges form the upper side and the lower side of the end of the base. The partial upper side section may incorporate a groove and the partial lower side section may incorporate a groove, at the joining edges. Slots can generally be rectangular in shape with sharp corners or with radiated corners, but can instead embody a round shape, a square shape, a star shape, an oval shape, a polygonal shape or an irregular shape. The groove in the partial upper side section and the groove in the partial lower side section may be located along the same axial position of the longitudinal axis of the right frame. In other examples, they can be moved axially from the same axial position. In one example, the two slots CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí are generally located along the proximal end of the two joining edges. The body portion may be located distal to the base portion, which may have a wall with a top wall section, a bottom wall section, and a side wall section. In one example, two slots, similar to the slots in the base portion, may be provided at the joining edge of the lower structure or wall section. The two slots may have the same shape as the two slots in the base portion or may be different. In one example, one of the two slots in the bottom wall section may be located adjacent to the edge of the bottom cutout housing and the second slot may be located distally therefrom. In other examples, there may be only one slot in the bottom wall section, or more than two slots and they may be located elsewhere along the joining edge. The activation ramp may be located on the interior surface of the side wall section of the housing wall closer to the distal end than the proximal end, in the activation region of the structure. The activation ramp may have a proximal ramp section, a distal ramp section, and a central ramp section, which may be located between the proximal and distal ramp sections. In one example, the proximal ramp section may comprise a slope increasing from the inner surface of the right structure, which may be viewed as a structure having a surface extending radially away from the inner surface. When assembled with the left frame and the assembled housing having a catheter assembly located therein, the proximal ramp section may extend from the inner surface towards the needle or towards the longitudinal axis passing through the housing. The longitudinal axis passing through the housing can be considered as a reference line and the proximal ramp section can be understood as having a surface that is further away from the reference line and gradually approaches the reference line. as the ramp approaches the center ramp section. The central ramp portion may have a surface that is closer to the reference line than the proximal ramp portion and may comprise a generally flat area or a surface area with a large radius. The distal ramp portion, in one example, may comprise a slope decreasing from the central ramp portion, which may have a surface receding from the reference line. If the proximal ramp portion has a positive slope, then the distal ramp portion may have a negative slope. Therefore, the activation ramp can be considered an inclined structure that rises to a peak or crest in the central ramp section and then has a negative slope. In other examples, the distal ramp portion may be constant or flat to the central ramp portion, without any slope. In still other examples, the distal ramp portion may have a positive slope that continues to extend toward the reference line. Preferably, the distal ramp portion has a negative slope. When the left and right structures are assembled together to form a housing, the space between the two adjacent activation ramps, which may be called the activation space, if two activation ramps are incorporated, or between the activation ramp and the interior surface of the adjacent structure, if only one activation ramp is incorporated, may vary. The activation space may narrow as it extends from the proximal ramp portion to a narrower point in the central ramp portion, or from two proximal ramp portions to a narrower point in two central ramp portions. As further described below, the actuation space may be incorporated as a means against which the catheter hub may advance to impart component torque to then separate the housing into two or more housing components. A recess may be provided with the end cap component of the second frame or right frame. The recess may have three sides and a fourth side that opens. Optionally, the recess may incorporate a four-sided slot, similar to one of the slots in the body section or the base section. The recess in the end cover component may be sized and shaped to receive a corresponding tab on the adjacent end cover component in a press fit or interference fit arrangement. In some examples, the location of the recess and the tab for engaging the recess may be reversed so that the recess can be located on the end cap component of the first frame or left frame. The activation ramp can be implemented as two separate activation ramp sections, each with a proximal ramp portion, distal ramp portion, and central ramp portion. The two separate activation ramp sections can operate as explained above. A gap or void may be provided in the distal ramp sections of the two ramp sections, formed by the negative slopes of the two distal ramp sections. A small gap can be located between the two ramp sections. In other examples, the activation ramp may be formed as a single ramp structure without a gap. The surface of the activation ramp may be generally flat or may have a large radius to form a slight curve to accommodate the contour of the catheter hub. As can be seen, when the second frame or right frame is coupled to the first frame or left frame and the catheter connector is advanced distally to abut the two separate activation ramp sections, the nose section of the catheter connector Catheter initially abuts the two proximal ramp portions of the two separate activation ramp sections then moves into space or vacuum as the nose section continues to move in the distal direction. Then, the intermediate portion of the catheter hub, which is larger in diameter or size than the nose section of the catheter hub, is moved over the two proximal ramp portions to further expand the two structures from one another. At this point, the two structures are completely separated from each other, except for the coupling at the two end cap components, at the distal end of the housing. If not completely separated proximally from the two end cap components, additional movement of the external threads of the catheter hub against the two proximal ramp portions may further expand the two structures from one another so that the tabs and Slots of the two structures are completely separated from each other, except for the mating at the two end cap components. Finally, the last CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí coupling between the gap and the tab on the left frame can be separated by physically grasping one or both of the frames and separating one or both frames from each other. The catheter connector can be completed, such as connected to a drip line and taped to a patient. In one example, the recess in the end cap component may have two side walls, a bottom wall, and a center wall. In one example, each of the two side walls may comprise a surface and wherein the two surfaces of the two side walls may overlap or may converge in the direction of the bottom wall. Therefore, the surface of the central wall may have a trapezoidal shape. The recess may be conical and may have a width or space at the opening of the recess that is greater than the width or space at the bottom of the recess. This configuration can allow the corresponding tab on the end cap component of the first structure to engage the recess and the coupling to be easily separated to facilitate separation of the two structures on the two end cap components and then separate the ExD catheter assembly housing catheter connector. The outer surface of the second frame may be provided with a plurality of separate projections or ornamentations, similar to the left frame. In one example, the two different sets of projections for the two structures may be the same and may have the same spacing. In other examples, the projections may have different shapes and / or different spaces between two adjacent projections. In one example, male tabs or retainers may be provided on the third side of the base portion at the joining edge and on the fourth side of the base portion at the joining edge to engage the two grooves in the base portion of the second. structure. Male tabs or retainers may also be provided at the joining edge on the bottom wall frame or section to engage the two slots in the bottom wall frame of the second frame. Optionally, the two structures can be joined together along adjacent seams via welding or adhesive. If welding or adhesive is used, the upper and lower seams at the distal end of the housing are joined together via retainers so that the retainers can be disengaged to open a distal gate opening to then allow separation of the catheter hub from the catheter. accommodation, as further discussed below. A tab or male retainer may be provided at the joining edge of the end cap component of the first structure. The tab may be located on the end cap component at a location to matingly engage the slot in the right frame, when the left and right frames are assembled to form the housing in accordance with aspects of the invention. The tab may be sized and shaped to engage the recess in the end cap component of the second structure. In one example, the engagement between the tongue and the recess is a slight interference. In one example, the engagement between the male tab or retainer and the recess in the two end cap components may have a stronger engagement grip or retention than the engagement between the tabs on the base portion and the tabs on the housing structure. bottom wall that CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí couples to the corresponding slots in the second structure 194. This relative coupling force between the pairs of coupling tabs and slots can ensure that when the catheter hub is advanced in the direction distal within the interior space of the housing after initial placement of the catheter tube, and after advancement of a guide wire when incorporated, upon contact of the catheter hub against the activation ramps, the housing may be separated at the end first. proximal of the housing before separation into the two end cap components. In other examples, the various pairs of tabs and slots can generally open at approximately the same time upon contact by the catheter connector against the activation ramps. The tabs on the base portion of the first structure may be longer than the tabs on the bottom wall structure of the body section. The tabs on the base portion may also be longer than the tab on the end cap component. Different lengths of the various tabs may engage or engage grooves having different and corresponding engagement depths to ensure a generally tight seam when the two housing structures are engaged to form the housing. In some examples, each of the left and right frames may have both a slot and a tongue to mate with corresponding tongues and grooves rather than having an arrangement where all of the grooves are located with a frame and all of the tongues are located with another structure. The outer surface of the enterprise may be provided with a plurality of separate projections or ornamentations, similar to that of the second structure. In one example, the two different sets of projections for the two housing structures may be the same and may have the same spacing. In other examples, the projections may have different shapes and / or different spaces between two adjacent projections. In use, the user may use the ExD catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the present invention to puncture a target vein with guidance of a display device, such as an ultrasound monitor that uses an ultrasound probe. Primary blood recoil can be observed flowing towards the needle cone. The insertion angle of the ExD catheter assembly can then be lowered before further advancing the ExD catheter assembly to position the catheter tube deep into the vein. In some examples, a guidewire dispenser having a guidewire extending through the lumen of the needle may be used with the ExD catheter assembly. For example, a SonoStik® guidewire dispenser having a housing can be placed in the proximal opening of the catheter hub after removing the vent plug and the guidewire projecting through the lumen of the needle and advanced in a manner known in the industry. The guide wire can be used to guide the catheter tube to a desired treatment location within the body. The needle and catheter tube may advance over the guide wire and stop at or just before the nose end of the housing contacts the skin. If the ExD catheter assembly is used without a guidewire, then the ExD catheter assembly can be advanced without first advancing the guidewire. The healthcare professional can then place their thumb on the push tab CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí of the catheter connector to advance the catheter connector against one or more activation ramps in one or both of the first and second housing structures. When the catheter hub is pushed in the distal direction until the nose end of the catheter hub pushes against the two actuation ramps, a pair of component forces can be generated in each of the two structures. This can cause the two structures to separate starting at the base end of the housing. As the catheter hub continues to move in the distal direction, the two structures can be separated further until the tabs and grooves at the end of the base and body are completely separated from each other. At this point, with the tongue and recess on the two end cap components continuing to engage, the two structures can rotate on their respective live hinges. The user can then use a free hand while maintaining a grip on the catheter connector to pull one of the two structures apart into their respective end cap components. The catheter connector and the housing can then be free of each other. The user can then finish preparing the catheter hub, such as connecting a drip line to the catheter hub and taping it to a patient to secure the puncture site. In the alternative implementation of an ExD catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention, the left and right frames, or the first and second frames may be secured together with male tabs or retainers that engage corresponding slots or female retainers. . In the present embodiment, the engagement between the male tabs or retainers and the female grooves or retainers in the body and base may be such that they do not separate upon advancement of the catheter connector in the distal direction within the interior of the housing. For example, the coupling between the tabs and slots can be interference and / or adhesive, bonding or welding. Additionally, the activation ramps can be omitted from the first and second structures so that radial forces are not generated by the catheter hub advancing to separate the two housing structures. Therefore, when the catheter hub is advanced distally to further position the catheter tube into the vein, the catheter hub can reach the empty space at the distal end of the body section without imparting radial forces on the two structures to separate them. , without the activation ramps. Instead, the distal abutment of the catheter hub against the gates at the distal end opens the distal gate opening to then allow separation of the catheter hub from the housing. Upon being pushed distally by the advancing catheter hub, the male retainer or tab on the first structure can be released or separated from the recess in the second structure. The recess may have an open slot. This structure allows the tab and recess on the two end cap components of the left and right frames to be separated by allowing the tab to pass through the side opening of the recess without a side wall instead of the opening next to the joining edge. Therefore, separation into the two end components can occur simply by providing an axial force by pushing the catheter hub in the distal direction against the two end cap components without having to generate a radial force. Thus, after cannulation, optionally after guidewire placement, and after catheterization, as described above with the first or previous implementation of the ExD catheter assembly, the catheter connector can advance against the proximally oriented surfaces of the two end cap components of the left and right structures. The advancing force of the catheter hub forces the tab away from the recess. This separation may be facilitated by the open side between the two side walls of the cavity in the end cap component of the second frame or right frame. That is, the flange on the first frame or the left frame can simply slide through the space provided by the failing side of the gap between the two side walls. When the tab and female retainer on the two end components are separated and the two structures are held secured by the tongues and grooves in the body parts and the base parts of the two structures, the two end components are forced to oscillate in the distal direction around the two living hinges. In one example, the space or distance between the two living hinges is greater than the horizontal dimension or transverse dimension of the catheter hub. Therefore, as the two end cap components swing in the distal direction around the two live hinges, a gate with a gap, called a gate opening or distal gate opening as defined by the space provided By distally swinging end components, it opens to provide space for the catheter hub to pass through. The swing-end cap components may be referred to as gates that can be opened to open the distal gate opening. In practice, the opening of the gates to open the gate opening at the distal end allows the catheter connector to be separated from the needle hub and the housing through the gate opening or distal gate opening to be separated from needle, needle hub, housing and guidewire and guidewire dispenser, if used. The catheter hub can then be attached to a patient for fluid administration. The needle, needle hub, housing and guidewire, and guidewire dispenser, if used, may be disposed of per approved protocol. Therefore, it is understood that one aspect of the present invention includes an ExD catheter assembly comprising a multi-part housing having an interior space having a catheter assembly located therein; said catheter assembly comprises a catheter tube attached to a catheter hub and a needle attached to a needle hub and extending through the catheter tube with a needle tip extending distally from a distal opening in the tube of catheter. Said needle and catheter tube project through an opening in a distal end of the housing. The distal end may comprise two end cap components removably joined together, such as by mating a male retainer and a female retainer. The female retainer may be a recess with three side walls and with at least one open side and an open entrance to the recess. Each end cap component may comprise a gate that is rotatable about a live hinge. When the two gates of the two end cover components rotate or rotate to open the gate opening at the distal end of the housing, the needle hub can move CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí distally beyond the gate opening to separate from the housing. The multi-part housing to form the housing of the ExD catheter assembly may comprise a first frame attached to a second frame. The two structures may have a seam between them. The two structures can be joined along a joining edge. One of the two structures may comprise a tongue or a male retainer and the other structure may comprise a corresponding slot or female retainer to receive the male retainer for removably fixing the two structures together. The distal end of the housing may comprise a seam. The opening at the distal end having the needle and the catheter tube projecting thereto may be formed by two cuts in two wall surfaces so that when the two wall surfaces meet, a generally cylindrical guide opening is formed. for the two cuts. The distal end of the housing may include a resilient hinge. Preferably, there are two living hinges at the distal end of the housing. A gate with a gap can be defined by the distance between the two live hinges. When the tab and the female retainer have at least one open side separated from each other, two end cap components can swing distally about the two live hinges to open a gate opening or distal gate opening in the distal end of the housing. The catheter hub can be protruded from the gate opening or distal gate opening and separated from the remaining components of the ExD catheter assembly, which may include a needle, needle hub, housing, and guidewire and a guide wire dispenser, if used. In accordance with additional aspects of the invention, an ExD catheter assembly may include a barb extender or barb adapter attached to the catheter hub and extends orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the housing through the housing opening such that a portion The top of the tab adapter rises above the top wall structure of the housing to present a surface for pushing or grasping by a healthcare professional. In one example, the tab adapter is provided to extend the profile of the integrally formed push tab of the catheter connector well above the top wall structure to facilitate operation of the ExD catheter assembly. Alternatively, the push tab may be formed in an extended configuration and extends above the top wall structure of the housing to present itself for pushing by a healthcare professional without the separately formed tab adapter. The lug adapter may be formed from a plastic material, such as by plastic injection molding. The lug adapter may comprise a body having a first end and a second end. The first end can be located above, in elevation, the second end. In one example, the body may be formed in part as a solid structure above an imaginary line and having a tunnel or channel below the imaginary line with a first arched opening and a second arched opening in communication with each other through the channel. In an alternative embodiment, the body is hollow and is formed with a wall structure having an exterior surface and an interior surface that defines an interior space or cavity. The wall thickness between the outer surface and an inner surface may have a thickness sufficient to provide structural rigidity to carry a digital load applied by a user to advance the catheter hub. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí The barb adapter may be sized and shaped to mount onto the hub of the catheter. In one example, the barb adapter is configured to seat over the catheter connector and the connector body located in the channel of the body. The first opening and the second opening of the barb adapter can be sized to fit snugly around the curved body of the catheter hub. Depending on how the barb adapter is located over the catheter hub, for example, by positioning or locating along the axial position of the catheter hub, the first and second openings of the barb adapter may be the same size or different sizes to fit the particular contour of the catheter hub. In one example, the first and second openings may have a hemispherical, semi-oval or elliptical shape, or an arcuate shape. Preferably, the two openings are sized and shaped to fit snugly over the connector body of the catheter and have a gripping force around the connector body. The two openings can have different shapes from each other and can be selected based on the size and contour of the catheter hub body. When the barb adapter is mounted over the catheter hub, the push tab is configured to fit within the interior space of the body of the barb adapter. To ensure against slipping, slipping or moving relative to the catheter hub when digital pressure is applied to the body, two grab bars may be provided at the second end of the body, on either side of each of the two openings. The grip bars may resemble bosses and may be provided with contoured surfaces to fit snugly against the catheter hub. Relative to the top of the two openings, the grip bar locations on the barb adapter body should be located so that when mounted to the catheter hub, the two grip bars are below the center line. of the catheter connector body. The size and shape of the first and second openings and the locations of the two grip bars are such that the barb adapter fits snugly and grips the body of the catheter hub. The adapter can be used by sliding the channel and two openings over the body of the catheter hub and ensuring that the push tab on the catheter hub is located inside the inside of the tab adapter. The channel may have an open side for placing the barb adapter into the catheter hub. The push tab of the catheter connector may contact the inner surface on the proximal side of the body. Therefore, when a healthcare professional pushes the tab adapter in the distal direction, the inner surface of the tab adapter pushes against the proximally facing surface of the push tab to advance the push tab, and therefore the catheter connector, in the distal direction. In one example, the interior space of the tab adapter is provided with a socket that receives that push tab in a size-over-size fit or with slight interference to resist separation of the body of the catheter connector upon distal advancement of the connector. of the catheter. In a further example, the first and second structures may be joined together along a seam by corresponding tabs or male retainers and mating slots. Optionally, cj cznn / zznz / E / Yi the first and second structures can be joined together along the top and bottom seams via adhesive or welding. The catheter connector of the catheter assembly can be separated from the housing by incorporating a gate assembly at the distal end of the housing that opens to allow the catheter connector to be separated through the gate opening created with the pivot of two gates in the distal direction. The housing in the present embodiment can remain attached and only the gate assembly in the distal opening can be actuated to allow the catheter hub to separate. The ExD catheter assembly may comprise a removable protective cap, which is configured to be placed over the needle to cover the needle and the tip of the needle before use. The proximal opening of the protective cap may be frictionally engaged with the nose section or nose end of the housing. A barb adapter or barb extender can be placed over the catheter hub and secured to the catheter with a snap. A taper of the needle may extend proximally from the end of the base and out of the housing. A vent cap can be attached to the needle hub, which may allow air to vent, but captures any blood that may flow into the needle hub and vent cap. The housing of the present extended-dwelling catheter assembly may include a nose end or nose section having a tip at one end of two nose portions having a top seam extending therebetween. The top seam may extend across the top of the end of the nose. A similar corresponding bottom seam may extend across the bottom of the nose end. Each nose portion may be attached to an end cap component of each respective first or second structure. Each nose portion and each end cap component may be referred to as a gate or swing gate. The two gates of the two end cap components may be part of a gate assembly. The two gates can be opened to allow the catheter connector to be separated from the housing without requiring the first structure and the second structure to be separated from each other. In one example, each of the first and second structures comprises a wall structure comprising a bottom wall section, a top wall section, and a side wall section. A plurality of protrusions or ornaments may be provided on the outer surface of the side wall section, which may embody protrusions of round, elongate, polygonal or irregular shape. The projections may be spaced apart and provided for aesthetics and to facilitate gripping of the housing on the two side walls of the housing. The two housing structures may have an interior to accommodate the catheter assembly having a catheter connector therein. In one example, a lower elongated opening is not incorporated, unlike the opening of Figure 16. The bottom wall of both housing structures may be solid and may be joined together along the seam to the space separating the two end cap components of the rest of two structures. This arrangement allows the two structures to remain attached to each other while the two end cap components along with the two end nose portions of the nose open on respective live hinges to open a distal gate opening. In other embodiments, two housing structures may be joined together up to a longitudinal gap. The longitudinal space may extend up to and flow or blend into the front space allowing the two end cap components to swing to open the distal gate opening, as further discussed below. The proximal end of the longitudinal space may serve as an injection point for the plastic injection gate or inlet. Optional cut lines can be incorporated into the wall surface of each structure. Scoring lines can be straight, can be curved, or both for aesthetic appeal. Groove lines are understood as grooved lines formed in the wall thickness of the bottom walls of the two structures. In other examples, punctuation lines may be omitted. The two end cap components can be attached to the two front end walls via two live hinges. Each of the two end cap components can be attached to a part of the nose, the combination of which can be called a gate or swing gate. The two gates of the gate assembly can be swung open when pushed in a distal direction by distal movement of the catheter hub to open a distal gate opening, which can be moved when digital pressure is applied to a barb adapter, which attaches to the catheter connector. A frontal base wall may be provided proximally and within the boundary defined by the hollow partial cylinder of each nose portion. Each front base wall may have a cutout that is sized and shaped to accommodate part of the catheter needle and tube. When the first and second structures are joined, the two cuts in the two front base walls form a perimeter that defines an opening sized and shaped to receive the circumference of the combination catheter tube with the needle of the catheter assembly located within the housing. . In one example, the perimeter of the two cuts may be referred to as a guide opening that guides the combination needle and catheter tube as the combination advances in the distal direction during cannulation and vascular access. The two base walls may have variable thicknesses, measured along the length of the first structure and / or second structure. A male retainer may project from a side portion of the base wall that is thicker. In other examples, the base wall may have a uniform thickness. A male retainer, which may instead be a knuckle or bolt having an elongated body with a rounded end, may be provided in each of the first and second structures. The male retainer of the first structure may be located above, in elevation, the needle and / or catheter tube and extends generally orthogonal to the axis defined by the needle. The male retainer of the second structure may be located below, in elevation, the needle and extends generally orthogonal to the axis defined by the needle. The arrangement of the two male retainers in the two structures can be reversed. In one example, the two male fasteners may project radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the needle a sufficient amount so that the tip of each male fastener extends beyond the midpoint mark. diameter of the needle and preferably beyond an edge of the needle on the opposite side from which the male fastener extends. In other examples, the male retainers may extend a shorter length or distance from the respective side from which the male retainers extend. The length of the male retainers can be selected to vary the amount of engagement with the corresponding receiving slots, as further discussed below. A receiving slot may be provided with the first structure below the male retainer. Similarly, a receiving slot may be provided with the second structure above the male retainer. Again, the arrangement can be reversed. Each receiving slot may comprise wall structures configured to frictionally engage a corresponding male retainer located on the opposite structure. Therefore, the receiving slot in the first structure can be configured to frictionally engage the male retainer in the second structure and the receiving groove in the second structure can be configured to frictionally engage the male retainer in the first structure. In one example, the receiving slot may have a first wall surface and a second wall surface configured to frictionally engage two surface sections of a male retainer that will engage therewith. In one example, the first wall surface and the second wall surface may be arranged generally orthogonal to each other. Preferably, each receiving slot does not have a wall surface opposite the second wall surface, which then provides clearance, or a failure wall, for the male retainer to separate from the receiving slot when the body of the catheter hub , such as the nose end of the catheter hub, abuts and pushes against the two base walls in the distal direction. When pushed, the two gates of the gate assembly can rotate about the two live hinges to open the distal gate opening to then allow the catheter connector to be separated from the housing. In one embodiment, each receiving slot may further include a wall surface opposite the respective first wall surface so that each receiving slot may have a three-sided wall structure. Each receiving slot and stiffness of the end cap component can be sized to hold the corresponding male retainer in a slight interference fit. During use, the user can use the ExD catheter assembly to puncture a targeted vein with the guidance of a display device, such as an ultrasound monitor using an ultrasound probe, after removing the protective cap. Primary blood recoil can be observed flowing towards the needle cone. The insertion angle of the ExD catheter assembly is then lowered before the ExD catheter assembly is further advanced to position the catheter tube deep into the vein. In some examples, a guidewire dispenser having a guidewire extending through the lumen of the needle may be used with the ExD catheter assembly. For example, a SonoStik® guidewire dispenser having a housing can be placed in the proximal opening of the catheter hub after removing the vent plug and the guidewire projecting through the lumen of the needle and advanced in a manner known in the industry. The wire CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí guide can be used to guide the catheter tube to a desired treatment location within the body. The needle and catheter tube may advance over the guide wire and stop at or just before the nose end of the housing contacts the skin. If the ExD catheter assembly is used without a guidewire, then the ExD catheter assembly can be advanced without first advancing the guidewire. The healthcare professional can then place their thumb on the barb adapter that engages the catheter hub to advance the catheter hub against the gate assembly. When the catheter hub is pushed in the distal direction so that the nose end of the catheter hub pushes against the two gates of the two end components, the distally directed force is transferred to the gate assembly and exceeds or exceeds the interference and / or friction forces provided by the engagement between the two male retainers, or knuckles or bolts, and the two receiving slots. As the catheter hub continues to move in the distal direction, the two gates can swing in the distal direction around the live hinges. The user can continue to move the catheter hub in the distal direction while applying a proximally directed force to or while applying a constant clamping force to the housing to move the needle hub completely through the gate opening provided by the two rotated gates. . The catheter connector and the housing can then be free of each other. The user can then finish preparing the catheter hub, such as connecting a drip line to the catheter hub and taping it to a patient to secure the puncture site, and optionally removing the barb adapter from the catheter hub. . A lug adapter according to aspects may be formed from a plastic material, such as by plastic injection molding. The lug adapter may comprise a body having a first end and a second end. The first end can be located above, in elevation, the second end. In one example, the body may be formed as a solid structure with a slot for housing a push tab extending from the catheter hub and with a hollow tunnel for mounting over the body of the catheter hub, as further discussed below. forward. The body may have an outer surface and an inner surface, a first opening or distal opening and a second opening on the side of the body opposite the first opening. A channel may be provided between the two openings. The channel may have one side open for placement over the catheter hub. The wall thickness between the outer surface and the inner surface may be of sufficient thickness to provide structural rigidity to carry a digital load applied by a user to advance the catheter hub. The body may have a distally oriented outer surface comprising one or more projections or surface elements for aesthetic appeal. The distally oriented outer surface may be curved or arched. Surface projections or features may optionally be omitted. In other examples, the projections may incorporate other shapes, such as dimples, round bumps, shaped projections, random projections, etc. The distally oriented outer surface may be located between two lateral surfaces. In one example, each of the two side surfaces may have a flat or flat wall without variable surface features. In one embodiment, each side surface has a first surface portion, a conical side surface portion, and a second surface portion. Like the first surface portion, the second surface portion may have a flat or flat wall. The two second surface portions on the two side surfaces may define a width that is greater than the width defined by the first two surface portions. Therefore, the width at the first end of the lug adapter may be wider than the width at the second end of the lug adapter. The distal opening of the tab adapter may have a perimeter defined by multiple edge sections or segments. The shape of the perimeter may vary depending on the shape of the catheter hub that the barb adapter is configured to mount. For example, the perimeter shape may have only four side edge sections or may be semicircular or partially circular. In one example, the proximally oriented surface of the lug adapter has a first surface section and a second surface section. The first surface section may be generally flat, but is inclined from the flat surface of the second surface section at an inflection line or transition line. The first surface section may incorporate one or more surface elements or projections. The proximal or second opening may have a perimeter defined by a semicircular or partial circular edge. The shape of the perimeter may vary depending on the shape of the catheter hub that the barb adapter is configured to mount. For example, the shape of the perimeter may be defined by a plurality of edge segments or sections and may vary depending on the shape of the catheter hub to which the lug adapter is configured to mount. The first and second openings should extend more than half or midline of the catheter hub body to ensure grip over half the diameter of the catheter hub body. Multiple projections may be incorporated into the interior cavity of the lug adapter to provide rigidity. A catheter connector according to aspects of the invention has a nose section at a distal end and a proximal shaft section. The nose section may have a generally square shape with rounded corners connecting the four sides. In other examples, the nose section may have other cross-sectional shapes, generally including cylindrical, oval, elliptical, polygonal, etc. The proximal body section is generally round and may be relatively larger in circumference or outer contour than the nose section. Therefore, a step or stepped section may be provided between the nose section and the proximal body section. The openings in the barb adapter can be sized and formed accordingly to fit the contour of the catheter hub body. The barb adapter may be sized and shaped to mount onto the hub of the catheter. In one example, the barb adapter is configured to sit over the catheter connector and the body of the connector located in the channel of the body of the barb adapter. The first CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí opening and second opening of the barb adapter are sized to fit snugly around the curved body of the catheter hub. Depending on how the barb adapter is positioned over the catheter hub , such as by placement or location along the axial position of the catheter hub, the first and second openings of the barb adapter may have the same size or different sizes to fit the particular contour of the catheter hub. In one example, the first opening may have a shape that fits snugly around the generally square cross section of the nose section and the second opening may have a hemispherical shape, semi-oval or elliptical shape, or an arched shape to fit around the proximal body section. Preferably, the two openings are sized and shaped to fit snugly over the connector body of the catheter and have a gripping force around the connector body. The channel located between the two openings has an open side for placement of the barb adapter over a catheter hub. When mounted over the catheter hub, the push tab of the catheter hub is configured to fit within the interior space of the body. The push tab of the catheter hub may contact the interior surface on the proximal side of the body or may project into a retainer, cavity, or socket within the interior to increase grip between the tab adapter and the catheter hub. . Therefore, in use when a healthcare professional pushes the lug adapter in the distal direction, the inner surface of the lug adapter, or a recess or female retainer within the adapter, pushes against the proximally facing surface of the lug adapter. push to advance the push tab, and therefore the catheter hub, in the distal direction. In other examples, the grip provided by the openings of the barb adapter against the body of the catheter hub may also transfer force directed distally to the catheter hub to advance the catheter hub when the barb adapter is pushed. An extended dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with further aspects of the present invention comprises a housing with a first left frame or structure and a second right frame or structure joined together to form a housing having an interior for housing a catheter assembly and allowing the catheter hub to move from a proximal position within the interior to a distal position and then separating from the housing. The ExD catheter assembly further comprises a catheter assembly, which may be similar to other catheter assemblies described herein. The catheter assembly is shown located at least partially within the housing. The catheter assembly comprises a catheter connector, a needle connector, and a protective cap covering a needle with a needle tip. The first and second structures forming the housing can be separated to release the catheter connector from the catheter assembly of the housing. The first and second structures may be joined together along a seam by corresponding tabs or male retainers and coupling slots, as described above, and whereby the couplings may be separated. Optionally, the first and second structures can be joined together along the seams CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí upper and lower via adhesive or welding, in addition to the tabs and retainers or as an alternative to using the tabs and retainers. When the two housing structures do not separate , or where the housing can be separated into smaller housing components, the housing can be provided with a gate assembly to allow separation of the catheter connector from the housing after cannulation and vascular access. In alternative embodiments, the housing may be assembled from two housing structures representing an upper structure and a lower structure, rather than the left structure and right structure described herein. For example, the upper structure may have a body opening, similar to the opening 196 of Figure 1, and the lower structure may have a closed bottom wall, similar to the closed bottom wall of Figure 4, which may optionally have one or more small vents or openings. Therefore, the seam between the two alternative structures is rotated from the seam shown and described elsewhere. In yet another example, the housing may be assembled from two housing structures representing a front structure and a rear structure, rather than left and right structures or top and bottom structures. In other words, the housing may be assembled along a seam that is located somewhere between the distal end and the proximal end of the housing. In yet another alternative embodiment, the housing for positioning a catheter hub therein may be unitarily formed and provided with a distal opening and a proximal opening. A gate assembly as described herein may be attached to the distal opening and the needle hub, and / or vent plug, may extend the proximal opening into a ready-to-use position. In yet another embodiment, a lug adapter may comprise a body having a first end and a second end. The first end can be located above, in elevation, the second end. In one example, the body may be formed as a solid structure with a slot for housing a push tab extending from the catheter hub and with a hollow tunnel for mounting over the body of the catheter hub, as further discussed below. forward. The adapter body may have an outer surface and an inner surface, a first opening or distal opening, and a second opening at the end of the body opposite the first opening. A channel may be provided between the two openings. The channel may have an open side for mounting over a catheter connector. The wall thickness between the outer surface and the inner surface is of sufficient thickness to provide structural rigidity to carry a digital load applied by a user to advance the catheter hub. The body of the lug adapter may have a distally oriented outer surface comprising one or more projections or surface elements for aesthetic appeal. The distally oriented outer surface may be arcuate or curved. Surface projections or features may optionally be omitted. In other examples, the projections may incorporate other shapes, such as dimples, round bumps, shaped projections, random projections, etc. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí The distally oriented outer surface may be located between two lateral surfaces. In one example, each of the two side surfaces may have a flat or flat wall without variable surface features. However, the two side surfaces may be curved to provide a curved end cross section. A slot or concave groove may be located between a first surface portion and a second surface portion on each of the two side surfaces of the lug adapter. The two second surface portions of the two side surfaces may be generally planar and parallel to each other, thus defining a generally constant outer dimension at least along the portions of the two side surfaces. The first two surface parts may also be generally parallel to each other. In one example, the first two surface portions of the two side surfaces taper inwardly in the direction from the second end toward the first end. A projection may be incorporated into at least one of the two side surfaces of the tab adapter and extend radially from the longitudinal axis of the tab adapter. The projection may include ramped surfaces and a planar end surface that intersect the ramped surfaces. In other examples, the projection may be formed from straight sides and a flat end surface of a hemispherical dome, or a non-spherical dome. In use, the projection can be arranged to abut or contact the gate assembly at the distal end of the cover to open the cover wider and allow separation between the cover and the catheter hub. In one example, a projection is provided on each of the two side surfaces of the tab adapter so that the gate assembly can abut both projections. The distal opening of the tab adapter may have a perimeter defined by multiple edge sections or segments. The shape of the perimeter may vary depending on the shape of the catheter hub that the barb adapter is configured to mount or upon which to mount. For example, the shape of the perimeter may have only four side edge sections or may be semicircular or partially circular or any corresponding shape of the external contour of the catheter hub. However, the shape of the perimeter does not have to precisely fit the contour of the catheter hub for the barb adapter to be used with the catheter hub and secured thereto by fit. In one example, the proximally oriented surface of the lug adapter has a first surface section and a second surface section. The first surface section may be generally curved, arched or inclined, such as a ramp having a wall that is primarily vertical or extending upward. The second surface section can be curved or arched and mostly horizontal or flat. The first surface section and the second surface section connect or join together and together resemble a jump or a ramp, similar to the arched outer surface of the distally oriented surface. The first surface section of the proximally oriented surface may incorporate one or more surface elements or projections. In one example, the second or proximal opening of the barb adapter may have a perimeter defined by a semi-circular or part-circle edge. The shape of the perimeter of the second opening may vary depending on the shape of the catheter hub that the barb adapter is configured for. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí to mount or on which to mount. For example, the shape of the perimeter may be defined by a plurality of edge segments or sections and may vary depending on the shape of the catheter hub that The lug adapter is configured to mount or be mounted on. In some examples, the shape of the perimeter of the second opening does not have to precisely fit the contour of the catheter hub for the barb adapter to be used with the catheter hub. The perimeters of the first and second openings may be the same or may differ from each other. The first and second openings should extend more than half or midline of the catheter hub body to ensure grip over half the diameter of the catheter hub body. In one embodiment, the distally facing outer surface of the barb adapter is provided with a narrow tip that tapers to a smaller tip having a tip end that resembles a spear or arrow. Therefore, the distally oriented surface and the two lateral surfaces of the barb adapter can converge to define a sharp tip that is somewhat pointed, but flares to resemble a broad arrow. Just below, in elevation, the tip of the distally oriented outer surface, an extension is provided. In one example, the extension may be molded as an elongated stem or bar formed from the body of the lug adapter. The extension may have side edges and a bottom edge that has an elongated shape with a tapering tip. The tapering tip or tip end of the extension may be located distally from the tip end of the distally oriented outer surface. In an alternative embodiment, the extension can be omitted. The extension may be formed unitarily with the tab adapter and may share one of the side edges with the bottom surface of the tab adapter. A drive end of the lug adapter may include one or the other or both the tapering tip or end of the extension and the tapering tip or end of the distally facing surface. The drive end may be provided at the distal end of the lug adapter. The drive end may be configured to separate the two gates of the gate assembly located at the distal end of the housing to then provide clearance for the catheter hub, which is attached to the barb adapter, to separate from the housing after puncture. successful vein. In one example, the gate assembly may comprise a nose end having a tip. The end of the nose may be hollow and define a hole. The gate assembly may further comprise a top seam and a bottom seam, which allows the gate assembly to separate into the top and bottom seams and swing distally around two rotating or rotatable hinges, as further discussed below. The top seam extends across the top of the nose end. A similar corresponding bottom seam may extend across the bottom of the nose end. The top seam is above, in elevation, the bottom seam. The gate assembly may be clam-shaped or clamshell-shaped and comprises a body having a first gate and a second gate, which can be CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí combine to form an assembled gate assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention. In one example, the two gates may be formed by molding, such as plastic injection molding, and They may include a tie strip to hold the pair together during manufacturing and assembly. Optionally, the tie strip can be omitted and other tracking and monitoring used to associate the corresponding gate pair. Both the first and second gates may have body sections having a barrier wall having wall sections extending proximally therefrom and wall sections extending distally therefrom. Each gate may further comprise a male retainer, or stem or bolt, and a receiving slot to engage the corresponding receiving groove and male retainer of the opposite gate. Each receiving slot may have at least one open or missing side so that the engaged male retainer can swing across the missing side. For example, each receiving slot may have three sides and may be sized and shaped to receive the male retainer in an interference. Therefore, when a load is applied to the gate, each male retainer may slide past the missing wall of the corresponding receiving slot and allow the gate to open, as further discussed below. The first and second gates may swing distally about the respective live hinges. Each gate is provided with a front base wall within the boundary defined by the hollow partial cylinder of each nose portion or each distal wall. Each front base wall may have a cutout that is sized and shaped to accommodate part of the catheter needle and tube. When the first and second structures are joined, the two cuts in the two walls of the front base form a perimeter that defines an opening that is sized and shaped to receive the circumference of the combination catheter tube and needle. The opening can be considered as a guide opening to guide the catheter tube and needle during advancement during cannulation and vascular access. In one example, the perimeter of the two cuts of the gate assembly may be referred to as a guide opening that guides the combination needle and catheter tube as the combination advances in the distal direction during cannulation and vascular access. The two base walls may have variable thicknesses, measured along the length of the first structure and / or second structure. A male retainer may project from a side portion of the base wall that is thicker. In other examples, the base wall may have a uniform thickness. A male retainer may be provided in each of the first and second gates. The male retainer of each of the first gate and the second gate may be located on the side of the cut opposite the receiving slot. In one example, the two male retainers may project radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the needle a sufficient amount so that the tip of each male retainer extends beyond the mid-diameter mark of the needle and preferably beyond of an edge of the needle on the opposite side from which the male retainer extends. In other examples, the male retainers may extend a shorter length or distance from the respective side from which the male retainers extend. The length of the male retainers can be selected to vary the amount of engagement with the receiving slots CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí corresponding. Each receiving slot of a gate may comprise wall structures configured to frictionally engage a corresponding male retainer located on the opposite gate. The receiving slot in the first gate, which may be located with the first frame or left frame, may be configured to frictionally engage the male retainer in the second gate, which may be located with the second frame, and the receiving groove in The second gate is configured to frictionally engage the male retainer on the first gate. In one example, the receiving slot may have a first wall surface and a second wall surface configured to frictionally engage two surface sections of a male retainer. In one example, the first wall surface and the second wall surface are arranged generally orthogonal to each other. Preferably, each receiving slot does not have a wall surface opposite the second wall surface, or has a missing wall section to define an open slot or channel, which then provides space for the male retainer to separate from the receiving slot. reception when the tip end of the tongue adapter is supported and pushed against the two base walls in the distal direction. When pushed, the two gates can rotate around the two live hinges to open the gates and then allow the catheter connector to separate from the housing. In one embodiment, each receiving slot may further include a wall surface opposite the respective first wall surface so that each receiving slot has a three-sided wall structure. Each receiving slot can be sized to hold the corresponding male retainer in a slight interference fit. Assembly of the two gates of the gate assembly may be facilitated by a hook arm located on the first gate hitch or engagement to a corresponding female retainer on the second gate housing. In other examples, the location of the hook arm and female retainer may be reversed. Therefore, in addition to the friction forces provided by the combination male retainers and receiving slots described immediately above, the clamshell or clamshell housing structure of the gate assembly can be held together by the hook arm. and the female retainer. In some examples, the hook arm and female retainer may be omitted and the interference between the pair of male retainers and the receiving slots may be increased to provide the engagement required to retain the first and second gates together. In still other examples, positive engagement means, such as prongs, may be incorporated with the pair of male retainers and receiving slots to provide additional engagement forces. The combination hook arm and female retainer can provide clamping forces in the radial direction with respect to the axis passing through the nose end hole. However, when supported and pushed in the distal direction by the driving end of the tab adapter, such as by the end of the tip of the extension in the tab adapter, such as when the tab adapter is moved in the distal direction distal to advance the catheter tube into a patient's vein as discussed above, the hook arm deforms and separates from the female retainer. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí At approximately the same time as the hook arm deflects away from the female retainer, the male retainers on the two gates separate from the corresponding receiving slots. Two of the proximal wall sections that extend proximally from the barrier wall can be referred to as gate side walls. In one example, the two side walls of the gate may be rotatably connected to the corresponding barrier walls of the first and second gates. In one example, each rotary connection may be a live hinge, which is understood to mean a unitarily formed thin section or a thin plastic strip formed during molding to join two adjacent sections, such as to join the side wall of the gate and the barrier wall. The thin plastic strip allows the two adjacent joined sections to pivot or rotate around the live hinge. Each gate side wall may be provided with a flange, with more than one flange contemplated, such as two or three separate flanges. Each set of two flanges, or at least one flange, and gate side wall may define a key to engage a slot in the distal end of the housing to retain the gate assembly to the housing. The key may extend from a body section of each gate through a live hinge and the key may be attached to the housing to allow the body section to rotate about the live hinge. The first and second gates may have a seam passing between them. When the two gates are pushed apart in the distal direction, such as by the drive end of the tongue adapter, separation occurs at the seam. The seam may extend between two adjacent proximal wall sections. These wall sections can be called baffle walls. Each baffle wall may have a proximal edge 638. The proximal edge may have different edge sections. The different edge sections of the proximal edge may have straight edges or curved edges. Two relatively straight edges are joined by a elbow, radius or angle, it can be an acute or obtuse angle. Two adjacent straight edge sections of the two baffle walls converge at the seam. The two edge sections adjacent at seam 232, or divided by the seam, define an abutting edge. The abutting edge is configured to be abutted or pushed by the actuating end of the tongue adapter, such as by the tip end of the distally facing outer wall surface, when the tongue adapter is advanced in the distal direction during the use of the ExD catheter assembly. An extended dwell catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention is understood to include a barb adapter having a drive end, such as a narrow tip or a barbed end, for pushing against an abutting edge or against an arm. of combination hook and a female retainer from a gate assembly. In one example, the tab adapter has both a tip with an end located on a distally oriented outer surface and an end located on an extension, which is located below, in elevation, the outer surface of the distally oriented outer surface. The two ends of the tip may be part of a drive end of the lug adapter. In some examples, the tip end of the surface CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYDistally oriented outer Ví is located proximally to the end of the tip of the extension so that the two ends of the tip contact two different surfaces along two different planes In one example, the tip end of the extension is configured to abut a surface that is located distally of a surface to abut the tip end of the distally oriented outer surface. Movement of the two gates in the closed direction can cause the hook arm to engage the female retainer and the two male retainers to engage the two receiving slots to enclose the clamshell structure. The two mated housing sections can be joined together without added glue or adhesive bonding. In one example, the housing may be provided with two receiving slots at the distal end, one in the first or left frame and another in the second or right frame. In one example, each receiving slot may be formed by a first wall slab and a second wall slab. The first and second wall slabs of each receiving slot define a hollow space between them to receive a key. The gate assembly may have a key formed with each of the two gates. In one example, each gate may comprise a gate side wall having one or more flanges, or projections projecting outwardly from the surface of the gate side wall. The combination gate side wall and the one or more flanges may define a profile or contour, called a key 633, that is sized and shaped to fit within the hollow space of the receiving slot at the distal end of the housing. Therefore, when the gate assembly is assembled to the housing, the two keys 6 in the first and second gates slide into the two receiving slots and are held therein by friction, interference and / or mechanical engagements. Once assembled, the gate assembly is secured to the distal end of the housing with the two gates being able to rotate about the respective live hinges to open, so as to allow a catheter connector assembled to the housing to be separated from the housing. A gap may be provided between the first wall slab and the second wall slab. Space may be provided to accommodate the wall structure of the side wall of the gate, adjacent to the live hinge. The space may be delimited at the end opposite the opening to the hollow space by a projection, which may join the first wall slab and the second wall slab together. The first wall slab may have a contoured wall structure, which may be sized and shaped to receive the profile defined by at least one flange on the gate side wall of the gate assembly. An extended-dwell catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention is understood to have a housing molded as a single piece. The housing may be partly cylindrical and partly rectangular. The rectangular portion of the housing may be a base. In some embodiments, the housing may be completely cylindrical. A gate opening in the top of the housing may bisect the housing longitudinally. The opening of the housing by extending the opening of the gate may allow a catheter connector to be removed from an interior space of the housing through an opening in the body. In some embodiments, the gate opening may be a living hinge. The live hinge can separate when the gate opening is separated with radial force. In some embodiments, the gate opening may be a fragmentable living hinge. The fragmentable living hinge may have perforations that facilitate separation of the living hinge and the gate opening when the gate opening is separated. A latch can serve as additional reinforcement to keep the gate opening intact. The latch may be located in a tip section of the housing between a nose end and the body opening. In some embodiments, there may be multiple locks in the gate opening along its length. The latch may be a two-sided retaining coupling created by bisecting the housing through the gate opening. The retaining coupling can be disengaged by applying additional radial force to the housing to separate the gate opening. A male retainer and a female retainer coupling retainer may alternate sides relative to the gate opening. The base of the housing may have a top opening extending from a skirt of the base to a proximal end of the housing. The skirt can be rectangular. The skirt may have rounded edges. Other skirt shapes are considered, such as round and triangular. A movable bridge or multiple movable bridges may extend over the opening. The moving bridge may have dividing, or moving, edges that may be collinear to the gate opening. In some embodiments, the edges may be connected to each other with a living hinge. In some embodiments, the edges may be connected to one another with a live, fragmentable hinge. Edges can be split by applying radial force at the base pointing away from the edges. The base may have fins extending from its sides. The wings can be held to advance the catheter assembly toward the patient after the skin is pierced. The fins may have protruding grips for better handling. The fins can also be pushed downward, meaning a direction opposite to the base opening, to exert radial forces on the housing. In some embodiments, pushing the flaps down alone may exert enough forces to split the movable bridges. In some embodiments, pushing down on the flaps may split one or more components, including the moving bridges, the gate opening, and unlocking the latch. In such embodiments, the ability to split one or more components may depend on the length and / or material properties of the housing. For example, a shorter housing provides a shorter distance for force displacement across the length of the housing, in which case less force dissipation occurs between the fins and the nose end. In another example, a cover constructed from a material that has lower ductility or toughness may allow one or more of the moving bridges, gate opening, and latch to split more easily. An extended-dwell catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention is understood to have a housing that has a base. The base may have a top opening for viewing return from a needle hub. The housing may additionally have an opening of CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí body that provides access to an interior space that houses a catheter connector. The catheter connector can be pushed to a distal position through a push tab that extends from the catheter hub and out of the body opening to fully advance a catheter tube once into the body. The body opening may extend between a base skirt and a proximal section cover. The proximal section cover may allow the catheter assembly to be held from a more proximal position in relation to the patient. Therefore, larger hands can be accommodated and the availability of more holding positions can provide improved control. The base can be rectangular to the proximal section cover, which may be cylindrical. In some embodiments, the base may be completely rectangular or completely cylindrical. A gate opening in the top of the protective cover may divide the protective cover longitudinally between a nose end and a proximal end. Having the proximal section cover and therefore having the gate opening bisect the housing all the way from the nose end to the proximal end may provide additional structural reinforcement to the housing. Therefore, additional force may be required to separate the gate opening than in catheter assemblies without the proximal section cover to remove the catheter connector from the interior space of the housing. In some embodiments, the gate opening may be a living hinge. In some embodiments, the gate opening may be a live, fragmentable hinge of the same material. The cover of the proximal section may have wings. When the fins are pushed downward, meaning a direction opposite to the base opening, more force may be required to remove the catheter hub than on shorter catheter assemblies without the proximal section cover because the fins and The nose end are further apart than in such catheter assemblies, and the gate opening continues to bisect the housing proximal to the base opening unlike in such assemblies. In some embodiments, if additional reinforcement is not desired, the housing can be constructed from a material that has less ductility or hardness than in catheter assemblies without the proximal section cover to allow removal of the catheter connector from the housing with greater ease despite the restrictions mentioned above. An extended-dwell catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention is understood to have a housing constructed from separate parts. The housing may have a first structure and a second structure. The first and second structures can be held together by one hinge or multiple hinges. The hinge can be located at the bottom of the housing. The first structure may have a male hinge part, and the second structure may have a female hinge part. In other embodiments, the first structure may have the female hinge portion, and the second structure may have the male hinge portion. A pin can pass through the male part and the female part. In some embodiments, the male portion may be inserted into the female portion instead of using the pin. In some embodiments, the housing can be constructed as a single piece. In such embodiments, the hinge may be a living hinge. In some of said embodiments, the hinge can CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí resemble a conventional hinge, for example, hinges generally used to open and close gates. The hinge may allow the first structure to open and hang from the second structure in a position open. The first and second structures may have a top seam at the top of the housing and a bottom seam at the bottom of the housing. The top and bottom seams may bisect the housing. The top and bottom seams can be live hinges, fragmentary live hinges, or spaced hinges. In some embodiments, only the top seam may be a live hinge or a fragmentary live hinge. In some such embodiments, only the bottom seam may be a live hinge or a fragmentable live hinge. In some embodiments, one of the top and bottom seams may be a live hinge while another of the top and bottom seams may be a breakable live hinge. In some embodiments, one of the top and bottom seams may be a fragmentable live hinge while another of the top and bottom seams may be a live hinge. In some embodiments, some portions of the top and bottom seams may be a living hinge and some portions may be a fragmentable living hinge. The live hinge and / or the fragmentable live hinge of the top seam and / or the bottom seam may be separated by applying radial forces to the housing directed away from the top and bottom seams to pull down the first structure from a state. closed to an open state. Radial forces can be applied by pushing down on fins located on a proximal section cover of a base. The top seam is above, in elevation, the bottom seam. The base of the housing may be separated from the rest of the housing by a skirt. In some embodiments, the proximal section cover may be removed and the fins may extend outwardly from the sides of the base. In some embodiments, the sides may have ridges to provide a better grip. In addition to, or instead of, the fins, radial forces can be applied by pushing the rails that extend out of the housing. The rails can extend from the skirt to the nose section. The rails may extend widthwise from an opening in the body that provides access to an interior space of the housing. The rails may be supported with a rail leg or rail legs that extend between under the rails and the housing. A block can serve as additional reinforcement to keep the top and bottom seams intact. The snag may interrupt the top seam. The latch may be located in a tip section of the housing between a nose end and the body opening. In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of obstacles. In some embodiments, the lock may be a retaining coupling of the first and second structures. In some embodiments, the retaining coupling can be disengaged by pushing a tab away from the coupling to lift and release a male retainer from a female retainer. The tab may be located on the same frame as the male retainer. In some embodiments, the male retainer may be in the second structure and the female retainer may be in the first structure. In some embodiments, the male retainer may be in the first structure and the female retainer may be in the second structure. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí The tongue may have a curved shape that resembles a fin. An internal curve of the tongue may have a rough surface. The rough surface can provide better grip. In some embodiments, the tab can be removed. In such embodiments, the retaining coupling may be disengaged by applying additional radial force to the housing when the first structure is pulled down from the closed state to the open state. The catheter hub of the catheter assembly can be pushed to the distal position via a push tab extending from the catheter hub out of the opening of the body to fully advance a catheter tube once into the body. In the distal position, the catheter hub may be partially covered by the nose section. Additionally, in the distal position, the push tab may abut the nose section to stop further movement of the catheter hub toward the nose section. The first structure can be opened and hung from the second structure using hinges. The first frame may not contact the second frame at the bottom seam, except for the hinges. In embodiments having a top seam that is / are a living hinge(s) and / or fragmentable living hinge(s), the top seam may be opened by applying forces. radials in the housing. A needle cone can be firmly fitted into the second structure so that the needle cone does not fall out of the interior space once the housing is opened from the first structure. In other embodiments, the locations of one, some or all of the elements and / or components of the housing can be changed to the opposite structure so that the housing can be opened from the second structure. The catheter hub can be removed from the housing by moving the nose section laterally while holding the catheter hub in place. The catheter connector can then remain attached to the patient. A needle may be exposed when the catheter hub is separated from the assembly. The needle may engage with a needle guard (not shown) located within the catheter hub as the needle is removed from the catheter hub. The needle guard can prevent needle sticks. The needle, needle hub and housing can be safely discarded. An extended-dwell catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention is understood to have a housing constructed from a single piece. The housing may be hinged. The hinges may be live hinges. Hinges may not have pins. The housing may have one latch or multiple latches to keep the housing closed. The lock may not have a tab. Accommodation can be maintained from a base close to the accommodation. The fins or a proximal section cover may be omitted. Therefore, the base may be open at a proximal end. A taper of the needle may extend proximally from the base. It is understood that a long-term catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention has a housing constructed from separate parts. The housing may have a first structure and a second structure. The first and second frames may be held together by a retaining coupling of the first and second frames. The cj cznn / zznz / E / Yi retaining coupling may be located in a nose section of the housing between a nose end and a body opening. In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of retention engagements of the first and second structures. In some embodiments, the retention link can be disengaged by pressing a button on the housing that disengages the first and second frames. Once the first and second structures are disconnected, a catheter connector can be released from an interior space of the housing. The button may have one or more ramped side surfaces that apply radial forces on the housing to disengage the detent coupling when the button is depressed. The button may be housed in a button housing. The button may have a top surface. The upper surface can be directly contacted to press the button. The upper surface may be round. Other top surface shapes are contemplated, such as oval, square, and rectangle. The button may be located near the opening of the body in a base of the housing. A needle cone can extend from within the interior space and outside of the base. The base may be sized so that more than half of the needle hub is exposed. In some embodiments, the button can be replaced by a detent latch that is unlocked by applying radial forces to the housing to disengage the detent coupling. In some embodiments, the male retainer of the retainer coupling may be in the second frame and the female retainer of the retainer coupling may be in the first frame. In some embodiments, the male retainer may be in the first frame and the female retainer may be in the second frame. The catheter hub can be removed from the housing once the retention coupling is fully disengaged and the first and second structures are completely separated from each other. In some modalities, the partially undocked state may be the result of the button being only partially pressed down. In some embodiments, the partially disengaged state may be the result of the button being fully depressed, and the structures may require additional radial force to complete disengagement from each other. For example, each of the structures can be held in one hand and separated from a partially uncoupled state. When the button is pressed, the button housing can be separated, a first half of the button housing is in the first frame and a second half of the button housing is in the second frame. The button housing may have one or more ramped side walls. Each ramped side wall is slidably capable of receiving each side surface. When the button is pressed, the ramps of the side wall and the side surface can be aligned so that there is no room for the button to move down unless the button housing is separated, whereby each side surface can exert a force on each side wall with ramps. One or more male tabs and one or more female tabs engageable with the one or more male tabs may extend from the first and second halves of the button housing. The male tabs may extend from each lateral surface of the first half, and the female tabs may extend from each lateral surface of the second half. In other embodiments, the male tabs may extend from each lateral surface of the second half, and the female tabs may extend from each lateral surface of the first half. In other embodiments, one of the side surfaces may have the male tongue and the other side surface may have the female tongue, and one of the side surfaces may have the female tongue and the other side surface may have the male tongue. One of the female tabs can slideably engage a recess in the button. When the button is pressed, the male tabs can disengage from the female tabs due to radial forces applied to the button housing and a gap roof pressing down on the female tab, which is then released from its complementary male tab. In other embodiments, there may be multiple recesses that can be slidably engaged with multiple female tabs and multiple recesses that can release the multiple female tabs from the male tabs. The ramped side surfaces of the button may have pins extending therefrom. The button can be attached to the catheter assembly by engaging the pins to the seats located within the button housing. The pins can move up and down within the seats when the button is pressed until the first and second frames separate along with the button to be safely disposed of. In some embodiments, the button may be attached to one of the first and second structures such that the button remains with that structure after the structures are separated from each other. By way of example and without limitation, said coupling that allows the button to remain with one of the structures may require the tight fit of one of the pins in its complementary seat. The button may have a ramped back surface in addition to the ramped side surfaces. In some embodiments, the ramped back surface may facilitate sliding of the button when pressed. In some embodiments, the ramped rear surface may apply radial forces to the button housing because the bulk of the button within the housing shifts when pressed. The pins may have legs that extend below the button and connect from below the button. The legs can allow the button to move down evenly when pressed. An extended-dwell catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention is understood to have a housing constructed from separate parts. The accommodation may have a first structure and a second structure. The first and second structure can be held together by clamp shaft coupling. The first and second structures can pivot or rotate relative to each other in the clamp shaft engagement to open the housing. The clamp shaft coupling may be located between openings in the upper and lower body of the housing and a base of the housing. The base may have ends on each of the first and second structures that curve proximally outward. The curved ends can be used as a lever to be pushed together to open the housing. Once the housing is opened, a catheter connector located in a space inside the housing can be removed. Prior to removal, the catheter hub may be pushed in a distal direction to advance a catheter tube toward the patient. The catheter connector can be pushed with a plunger. The plunger may be T-shaped. The plunger may be initially proximal to a push tab of the catheter hub. The plunger may be pushed in a distal direction to engage the push tab and push the catheter hub into a nose section of the housing. Once the catheter hub is fully advanced, the base can be squeezed from the ends of the base to open and separate the housing from the catheter hub. The clamp shaft coupling may have an upper clamp and an upper shaft, and lower clamp and lower shaft pairs. The upper and lower clamps can be on alternate structures. Similarly, the upper and lower shafts may be in alternating structures. In some embodiments, the upper and lower clams may be on the same structure and so may the upper and lower shafts. In some embodiments, the clamp shaft coupling can be replaced with another connection from which the first and second structures can rotate. By way of example and without limitation, said connection may be a hinge such as a traditional hinge used to open and close gates. The base may have a plurality of grips projecting from each of the first and second structures. The grips may improve grip when holding the catheter assembly from the base. The grips may be shaped and arranged like gills. The base may also have a second type of grips projecting from each of the first and second structures. The handles may be located more proximally in the housing with respect to the handles. The handles can have a circular shape. The grips may have a curved surface that complements the user's fingertips. The grips may allow the user to have an improved grip by squeezing the ends of the base to open the housing. The plunger may have a pair of legs, one at each end of the hat of its T-shape. The legs may be hook-shaped. The hook shape of the legs can be slidably engaged with the tracks of the housing, respectively. The pathways may extend along each side of the upper body opening. The plunger may slide over the tracts in a distal direction to first engage the push tab of the catheter hub and then push the catheter hub toward the nose section. In a fully advanced or distal position, the push tab may be sandwiched between the nose section and the plunger. The plunger can be slid to this position by holding and guiding the plunger from a handle. The handle may be level above the legs. The handle that is furthest from the housing may facilitate gripping the plunger, as well as allowing the plunger handle to sit above the base when in a proximal position. The handle may have projections for greater grip. In the distal position, each leg of the legs may be above one end of the track of the ends of the track. The ends of the track may be gaps between the nose section and the tracks on either side of the upper body opening. The ends of the track can be sized so that the hooked legs of the plunger do not grip the housing and have room to separate from the housing. Each of the first and second structures may have grips that extend through the nose and base section. The handles can be used to hold the probe assembly with one hand while pushing or withdrawing the plunger with the other hand. When the housing is opened, the opening between the first and second structure may decrease proximally because the pivot point clamp shaft coupling is located in a proximal section of the housing. The plunger and housing can be discarded, and the catheter connector can be left attached to the patient. At the most distal end of the housing, a tip may extend out of one end of the nose. The tip may have two separable sections, one in each of the first and second structures, respectively. The sections can form a double-lap butt joint when the housing is closed. The tip section may be on top of the section when joined together. In other embodiments, the section may be on top of the section when joined. A latch can serve as additional reinforcement to keep the sections together, and usually the first and second frames intact. The snag may interrupt the top seam. The lock may be located in the nose section of the housing between the nose end and the upper opening of the body. In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of obstacles. In such embodiments, one of the locks may be between the nasal end and the lower opening of the body. In some embodiments, the lock may be a retaining coupling of the first and second structures. In some embodiments, the retaining coupling can be disengaged by squeezing the curved base ends together. The resulting radial forces in the housing can lift and release a male retainer from a female retainer. In some embodiments, the male retainer may be in the second structure and the female retainer may be in the first structure. In some embodiments, the male retainer may be in the first structure and the female retainer may be in the second structure. In embodiments that have multiple locks, the male and female retainers may alternate between the first and second structure. There may be another embodiment of the plunger that has a distal handle and a proximal handle. The distal and proximal handles can provide multiple options for holding the plunger. Depending on the size of the user's hand or the position of the catheter assembly relative to the user or patient, holding the plunger from the distal handle or the proximal handle may be easier. The proximal handle may be elevated relative to the distal handle. The elevated position of the proximal handle may allow it to seat at the base of the cover when the plunger is in a proximal position. The distal and proximal handles may be the same size or different sizes. The distal and proximal handles may each have a grip or grips projecting therefrom. The distal handle may have a tip extending distally therefrom. The tip can be curved upwards. The curvature of the tip may allow the user's finger to engage the distal handle without slipping and take advantage of the tip by sliding the plunger in a distal direction. It is understood that an extended-dwell catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention has a housing that can be constructed from separate parts. The accommodation can CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí have a first frame and a second frame. The first and second frame may be held together by clamp shaft coupling. A first arm and a second arm may be joined swivel to the coupling of the clamp shaft. The first and second arms may overlap each other. Due to the overlap, the first and second arms may resemble a pair of scissors. The first and second arms may have a distal section and a proximal section The distal section may be within an interior space of the housing, while the proximal section may extend outside the interior space. The distal section may separate the first and second structures when the first and second arms are moved away from each other in engagement. clamp shaft to open the housing when the ends of the housing are squeezed. The first and second arms can facilitate opening of the housing by providing additional leverage. The lock(s) that keep the first and second structure intact may be easier to unlock due to the radial forces applied to the housing by the first and second arm. The clamp shaft coupling may be larger than in catheter assemblies without the first and second arms. The larger size may allow the first and second arms to rotate with less force application. Multiple locks are shown, one located in a nose section of the housing between a nose end and an upper body opening and one between the nose end and a lower body opening. An extended-dwell catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the invention is understood to have a housing constructed from separate parts. The housing may have a first structure and a second structure. The first and second structures may have a top seam and a bottom seam. The top seam may be in a section of the tip of the housing. The top seam may curve and flare into a body opening. At the most distal end of the housing, a tip may extend out of one end of the nose. The tip may have two separable sections, one in each of the first and second structures, respectively. The sections may form two finger joints, one extending from the top seam and one extending from the bottom seam, when the first and second structures are intact. The first and second structure can be held together by a bottom plate. The bottom plate may have long slot-engageable tabs of the first frame and short slot-engageable tabs of the second frame, respectively. A retention latch that is rotatably attachable to the bottom plate and the first frame can pull the bottom plate in a proximal direction when activated, thereby releasing the short tabs from their slots. At the same time, the long tabs can still engage the slots and therefore the second frame can be separated from the first frame, which remains attached to the bottom plate and retaining clip. Retention insurance can happen on an accommodation basis. A needle hub can be ejected proximally out of the base once a catheter hub is pushed to a distal position. The long tab and the short tab may be distal to the long tab and the short tab. The long tab and the short tab can extend from their respective slots into a cavity of CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí distal slot of the first frame and a distal slot cavity of the second frame when mated with the first and second frames, respectively. The first and second distal slot recesses of the frame may have the same dimensions.The first and second distal slots in the frame may have a trapezoidal shape.Other shapes are also contemplated, for example, rectangular, square, and triangular. The long tab and short tab may extend from their respective slots into a proximal slot hole of the first frame and a proximal slot hole of the second frame when mated with the first and second frames, respectively. The proximal slot cavity of the first frame may be dimensioned larger than the proximal slot cavity of the second frame. The larger dimensions of the proximal slot cavity of the first structure can accommodate the long tab. The first and second proximal grooves of the structure may provide a snug fit for the tabs. In other embodiments, the first and second proximal grooves of the structure may have the same dimensions. In such embodiments, the fit of the tongue may not be adjusted. The tabs may have beveled distal ends. The tabs may have rounded distal ends. In other embodiments, all of the distal ends may be rounded, beveled, or squared. The slots may have widths sufficient to accommodate their respective tabs. The tabs may be directly adjacent to the base. The bottom plate may be located within an interior space of the housing below the catheter connector. The tabs engageable with the first structure and the tabs engageable with the second structure may be separated by a slot. The groove may run along an entire length of the bottom plate on its upward surface, or towards the catheter hub when assembled. The retention latch may be rotatably connected to the first structure from beneath the bottom plate. Connection can be facilitated with a connecting pin. The connecting pin may extend inwardly, or into the interior space, from a distal lower corner of a first side of the retaining latch. The connecting pin may have a generally cylindrical shape with a protuberance on its external surface extending along its length. The protuberance may engage a slot within the base of the first structure that limits rotation of the connecting pin to allow the retaining latch to rotate only a certain amount in the proximal direction. The retention latch may have a top part and a second side. The top may have teeth that extend downward from an interior surface facing the base when assembled. The teeth may form a finger joint with an opposing tooth that goes between the teeth. A first half of the tooth may be in the first framework and a second half may be in the second framework. In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of teeth that can be received by multiple sets of teeth. The top and first side may extend across an entire height and width of the base. The second side may extend partially through the height of the base. The first side may have a proximal lower corner. An edge can CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí extend across the lower corners. The edge may be inclined, the proximal lower corner being higher, in elevation, than the distal lower corner. The retention latch may be movably connected to the bottom plate with a shaft extending inwardly or toward the base. The shaft can be cylindrical. The shaft can move laterally in a proximal direction when the retention latch is pulled in the same direction. Lateral movement of the shaft may be limited by limited rotation of the connecting pin. The first and second sides of the retainer may form threaded corners with the top of the retainer. In other embodiments, the corners may be straight. The bottom plate may have a proximal hook attached to the shaft of the retention latch. When the retaining latch is pulled in a proximal direction, the shaft can pull the bottom plate proximally from the proximal hook. When the bottom plate is pulled in a proximal direction, the short tabs disengage with their respective slots, while the long tabs remain engaged with their respective slots. As a result, the second frame will separate from the first frame, which will remain attached to the retaining latch and bottom plate. The first and second structures can be separated from the catheter connector, which can remain attached to the patient. The first and second structures can then be discarded. Methods for manufacturing and using extended-dwelling catheter assemblies and their components are within the scope of the present invention. Brief description of the figures These and other characteristics and advantages of the present devices, systems and methods will be appreciated as they are better understood with reference to the specification, claims and accompanying drawings where: Figure 1 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a catheter assembly provided in accordance with aspects of the present invention for use with a multi-part housing. Figure 3 is a side view of the assembly of Figure 1 Figure 4 is a perspective view of the extended indwelling catheter assembly of Figure 1 from a different perspective. Figure 5 is a partial perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 1 from a different perspective and is shown without one of the housing components. Figure 6 is a partial perspective view of one of the housing components of the extended-dwell catheter assembly of Figure 1. Figure 7 is a partial perspective view of the housing component of Figure 6 from a different perspective. Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 1 from a different perspective and is shown without one of the housing components. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí Figure 9 is a perspective view of one of the housing components of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 1. Figure 10 is a partial perspective view of the extended-dwell catheter assembly of Figure 1 from a different perspective. Figure 11 is a partial perspective view of the housing component of Figure 9 from a different perspective. Figure 12 is a partial perspective view of the housing component of Figure 9 from a different perspective. Figure 13 is a partial perspective view of the housing component of Figure 9 from a different perspective. Figure 14 is a partial perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 1 from a different perspective and is shown without one of the housing components. Figure 15 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. Figure 16 is a perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 15 from another perspective. Figure 17 is a perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 15 from a different perspective and is shown without one of the housing components. Figures 18A and 18B are partial perspective views of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 15 from a different perspective and is shown without one of the housing components. Figure 19 is a perspective view of one of the housing components of Figure 18. Figure 20 is a perspective view of one of the housing components of Figure 18. Figure 21 is a perspective view of one of the housing components of Figure 18. Figure 22 is a perspective view of one of the housing components of Figure 18. Figure 23 is a perspective view of one of the housing components of Figure 18. Figure 24 is a perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 15 from a different perspective and is shown without one of the housing components. Figure 25 is a perspective view of the housing component of Figure 24. Figure 26 is a perspective view of one of the housing components of Figure 25. Figure 27 is a perspective view of one of the housing components of Figure 25. Figure 28 is a schematic of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 15, showing the component torque when the catheter connector contacts the activation ramps. Figures 29 to 31 are different views and a cross-sectional view of a barb adapter for use with a catheter connector to facilitate operation of the ExD catheter assembly. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí Figure 32 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. Figure 33 is a top view of the ExD catheter assembly of Figure 32. Figure 34 is a bottom view of the ExD catheter assembly of Figure 32. Figures 35 and 36 are enlarged top and bottom views of the distal end of the housing of the ExD catheter assembly of Figure 32. Figure 37 is an enlarged perspective sectional view of the ExD catheter assembly of Figure 32 shown with only the first structure. Figure 38 is an enlarged perspective sectional view of the ExD catheter assembly of Figure 32 shown with the second structure only. Figures 39 to 42 are different views of a barb adapter for use with a catheter connector to facilitate operation of the ExD catheter assembly in accordance with additional aspects of the invention. Figure 43 is a perspective view of the ExD catheter assembly of Figure 32 shown with the barb adapter of Figures 39 to 42 mounted on a connector of the catheter. Figure 44 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly in accordance with additional aspects of the invention. Figures 45A to 45C show different views of a lug adapter. Figure 46 is a perspective view of a housing with a gate assembly. Figures 47A and 47B show different views of a gate assembly, in an open state. Figures 48A to 48C show different views of the gate assembly in an assembled state. Figure 49 shows the direction of movement to assemble the gate assembly. Figure 50 shows the direction of movement for mounting the assembled gate assembly into a housing. Figure 51 is a partial bottom perspective view showing the open distal end of the housing. Figure 52 is a partial rear perspective view of the housing, showing the open proximal end. Figure 53 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. Figure 54 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. Figure 55 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. Figure 56 is a different perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 55 with a catheter connector in a distal position. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí Figure 57 is a perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 55 with the catheter connector in the distal position and a housing component in an open position. Figure 58 is a perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 55 with the catheter connector removed from the housing component. Figure 59 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. Figure 60 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. Figure 61 is an enlarged perspective view of a proximal end of the extended-dwell catheter assembly of Figure 60. Figure 62 is an enlarged perspective view of a distal end of the extended-dwell catheter assembly of Figure 60. Figure 63 is an enlarged perspective view of a housing component release button of the extended-dwell catheter assembly of Figure 60. Figure 64 is a partial perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 60 without the housing component. Figure 65 is an enlarged view of the housing component detachment button of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 60 without the housing component. Figure 66 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. Figure 67 is an enlarged exploded view of a clamp shaft connection of a housing component of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 66. Figure 68 is an enlarged view of clamps of a catheter hub plunger and a catheter hub with a push tab of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 66. Figure 69 is a partial perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 66 with the catheter hub plunger and the catheter hub in a distal position. Figure 70 is a partial perspective view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 66 with the housing component in an open position and the plunger of the catheter connector removed from the housing component. Figure 71 is an enlarged perspective view of a distal end of the housing component of the indwelling catheter assembly of Figure 66. Figure 72 is an enlarged perspective view of a proximal end of the housing component of the indwelling catheter assembly of Figure 66 showing another embodiment of the catheter connector plunger. Figure 73 is a top view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí Figure 74 is a side view of the extended-dwell catheter assembly of Figure 73. Figure 75 is a perspective view of an extended-dwell catheter assembly provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. Figure 76 is a bottom perspective view of the extended-dwell catheter assembly of Figure 75. Figure 77 is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the extended-dwell catheter assembly of Figure 75. Figure 78 is a sectional view of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 75 without a first housing component structure. Figure 79 is an isolated perspective view of a retention latch and bottom plate of the extended-dwell catheter assembly of Figure 75. Figure 80 is an isolated side view of the retention latch and bottom plate of the extended dwell catheter assembly of Figure 75 Detailed description of the invention The detailed description set forth below in connection with the accompanying drawings is intended to be a description of currently preferred embodiments of catheter assemblies and components thereof provided in accordance with aspects of the present devices, systems and methods, and is not intended to represent the only ways in which the present devices, systems and methods can be constructed or used. The description establishes the characteristics and steps for constructing and using the embodiments of the present devices, systems and methods in relation to the illustrated embodiments. However, it should be understood that the same or equivalent functions and structures may be performed by different modalities that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. As noted elsewhere herein, like item numbers are intended to indicate similar items or characteristics. Generally speaking, the extended-dwell (“ExD”) catheter assemblies described herein each comprise a housing and a catheter assembly. The housing is configured to accommodate the catheter assembly during initial puncture, through catheter advancement, through separation of the catheter hub from the needle hub, and then activated to allow separation of the catheter hub from the needle hub. accommodation and allowing the catheter to remain with the patient. The catheter housing and connector can be separated through a variety of different mechanisms. For example, the housing may be divided into two or more housing parts to release the catheter hub, the housing may have parts that swing, rotate or rotate, the housing may have end cap components that open to open the opening. gate assembly to allow the catheter connector to exit the housing, and the housing may have a gate assembly that attaches to the distal end of the housing, among other options. The gate assembly can have two gates CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí located in two gate housing bodies that can be joined together and where each gate can be opened by a live hinge. The two gates can be coupled through male retainers and slots reception. The two gates can be attached via a hook arm and a female retainer. The unique housing designs allow them to be used with standard or existing catheter assemblies without the need for, although optional, specifically designed catheters. Therefore, the Standard catheters with extended lengths and midline catheters with catheter lengths of approximately 8-10 cm are readily usable with the housings of the present disclosure, with or without a guide wire. Referring now to Figure 1, a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an extended-dwell catheter assembly 100 is shown in accordance with aspects of the invention. In the example shown, the ExD or extended dwell catheter assembly 100 comprises a housing 102 having a receiving space or interior space 104 having a catheter assembly 108 located therein, having a catheter tube 110 and a needle 112 located within the lumen of the catheter tube extending toward the distal end 120 of the housing 102. A needle tip 114 of the needle extends a distal opening 110a of the catheter tube 110. The catheter tube 110 is attached to a connector of the catheter 130 and the needle 112 is attached to a hub of the needle 122. The needle connector 122 is shown extending a proximal end 126 of the housing 102. The hub of the needle 122 may include a vent plug 124, which can be attached to the proximal opening of the needle hub 122, such as in a Luer fitting. Referring now to Figure 2, a cross-sectional side view of the catheter assembly 108 of Figure 1 is shown outside or away from the cover 102. The catheter assembly 108 shown herein and similar catheter assemblies can be used with housing 102 to form an ExD catheter assembly in accordance with aspects of the present invention. Optionally, a guide wire may be incorporated to assist in inserting, positioning and moving a catheter, as further discussed below. In one example, the catheter assembly 108 comprises a first connector or catheter connector 130 having a tube or catheter tube over the needle 110 attached thereto and a second connector or needle hub 122 having a needle 112 attached to it. this. The catheter tube 110 has a lumen or hole for receiving the needle 112 and has a distal opening or distal end opening 110a and the needle tip 114 of the needle 112 extends distally of the distal opening 110a in a ready-to-use position. , in which the assembly is ready for venipuncture. The catheter assembly 108 may also be referred to as the needle assembly. The needle 112 may include a change in the profile 136 located proximally of the needle tip 114 for use with a needle guard. The needle tip 114 extends distally of the opening of the distal end of the tube or tubing 110 in the position ready for use with the change in profile 136, if incorporated for use with a needle guard, located proximally of the opening of the distal end 110a. The change in profile 136 may be a crimp, a protrusion, or a buildup of material that has a different profile than other diameter sections of the needle shaft. As used CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí herein, the term proximal is understood to mean an end or side closest to the trained user and the term distal is the opposite end or side. The change in profile 136 can be used to interact with a needle guard 140 during retraction of needle 112 after successful venipuncture, as further discussed below. A vent plug 124 is provided at the proximal open end 138 of the second connector or needle hub 122. The vent may have a vent filter 142 at a proximal end thereof, which is conventional. As shown, the catheter tube 110 is attached to the first connector or connector of the catheter 130 by a ferrule or sleeve 144. The needle guard 140 may be provided in the inner cavity 148 of the first hub or connector of the catheter 130 to cover the needle tip 114 in the protective position. When incorporated, the needle guard 140 may be one of the needle guards described in US Patent No. 6,616,630, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. In some examples, the needle guard 140 may be omitted. If so, the change in profile 136 on the needle can also be omitted. In still other examples, a needle guard may be included without also including a profile change in the needle. In still other examples, the needle guard 140 may be located in a third housing between the first connector 130 and the second connector 122. An example of a needle guard located in a third housing is described in US Pat. No. 8,597,249, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. In still other examples, the needle guard may include multiple arms or fingers extending in both a first direction and a second opposite direction as described in U.S. Patent No. 9,387,307, the contents of which are expressly incorporated. hereby for reference. For example, the needle guard may include a first guard body surrounded by a second guard body. In one example, the needle guard may be manufactured from a metallic material and may have an elastic portion that may generate a thrust force. The needle guard may comprise a wall surface that is positioned on one side of the needle and is movable distal to the tip of the needle to protect the tip of the needle from accidental contact therewith. The wall surface may be a needle trap and may move directly in front of or distal to the point of the needle tip. As shown, the needle guard 140 may include a proximal wall and two arms extending distally from the proximal wall. The two arms may intersect with each other in the ready-to-use position of Figure 1, and when viewed from the side view of Figure 1, and in the protective position in which the needle guard covers the tip of the needle , again seen from the side. In some examples, the two arms of the needle guard 140 may extend in a distal direction without crossing each other. Two distal walls, one on each arm, can be incorporated to block the tip of the needle. The two distal walls can be deflected outwardly by needle 112 in the ready-to-use position of Figure 1 and positioned distally from an internal change in profile 152 within the first connector 130 in the ready-to-use position. The internal change in profile 152 may be a reduced diameter section located adjacent to an inner diameter section of a larger dimension. The elbows on the two arms of the needle guard may have a dimension that is larger than the inner diameter in the internal change in profile 152 to restrict proximal movement of the needle guard from the connector of the needle guard. catheter until both arms no longer deviate outwards or until the dimension at both elbows is reduced. Each distal wall of each arm may include a curved edge to facilitate relative movement between the needle guard 140 and the needle 112. When in the ready-to-use position, the dimension measured between the two joints or elbows, at the intersection between each arm and its respective distal wall, is greater than the inner diameter of the internal shift in profile 152, which prevents the needle guard 140 from moving proximally therefrom due to relative dimensions. Once the needle tip 114 moves proximally of the two distal walls, the two arms are allowed to move radially inward and one or both distal walls are closed over the needle tip to lock the needle tip in a position. protective. At this point, the dimension between the two joints or elbows decreases and is smaller than the internal dimension of the internal shift in profile 152, which then allows the needle guard to move proximally and be removed from the catheter hub with the needle. In alternative embodiments, the dimension between the two joints may be equal to or slightly greater than the internal dimension of the internal change in profile 152 and the needle can still move proximally by flexing or squeezing the two joints to pass through the internal change in profile. 152. The first connector 130 has a proximal opening 156 that has a nose section 158 of the second connector 122 disposed therein. The proximal opening 156 of the first connector has a female Luer for receiving a male Luer tip, such as a syringe, IV tubing connector, Luer extension assembly, etc. External threads 154 may be provided on the outer surface at the proximal end for threaded engagement with a threaded collar of a male threaded Luer tip. A pair of stabilizing fins 162 may extend radially from the first connector 130 to facilitate fixation or anchoring of the first connector 130 to a patient after successful venipuncture. Optionally, the fins can be omitted. The first connector 130 may embody a standard IV catheter connector without an injection port. In other examples, the first hub may include an injection port or an integrated extension assembly. If fins are not present on the first connector or catheter connector 130, then the bottom of the first connector may have a flattened surface angled between 2 to 15 degrees from the through axis of the first connector. The first connector 130 is removably attached to the second connector 122 by receiving the nose section 158 of the second connector in the proximal opening 156 thereof. A flange or extension 160 may be provided on the second connector 122 and together with the nose section 158 define a space 166 having part of the first connector located therein. Optionally, the flange or extension 160 may be omitted and a knuckle 164 or other surface coupling features may be provided. The knuckle 164 may be the male portion of a key fitting spaced through or partially into the Luer threads to prohibit rotation of the second connector 122 relative to the first connector 130. The proximally oriented end surface of the first connector abuts the distally oriented surface of the step on the external surface of the second connector located at the end CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí proximal of the nose section 158, which is located within the first connector. This stirrup can establish the amount of protrusion of the needle tip 114 out of the catheter tube 110a The stub axle 164 may be an optional structural feature. The second connector 122 has a body 168 having an optional interior cavity 170 having the proximal end 172 of the needle 112 projecting inwardly. The inner cavity 170 may function as a primary blood backflow chamber. The proximal opening 138 of the body 168 may have a female Luer to receive the vent plug 124 or a syringe tip thereon and the exterior may be threaded or unthreaded. In one example, the exterior of the body 168 of the second connector 122 is generally cylindrical and without threads. The first and second connectors may be made of plastic materials, such as by plastic injection. A push tab 176 may be provided with the first connector or hub of the catheter 130. The push tab 176 may be located on an outer surface 178 of the first connector 130 at a location distal to the outer threads 154 to avoid interfering with the threads. exteriors. For example, the push tab 176 should be positioned sufficiently distal from the outer threads 154 so that when a threaded male connector, such as a type of syringe with a threaded collar, is connected to the threads of the first connector, the push tab 176 does not interfere with the connection. In some examples, the push tab 176 should be positioned sufficiently distal from the external threads 154 so that when the push tab 176 is folded, the push tab does not interfere with the connection. In some examples, the catheter assembly 108 may incorporate a valve and a valve opener. For example, a valve and a valve opener may be located within the catheter hub 130. During use, the valve opener may be pushed distally toward the valve to open the one or more slots formed with the valve to open a passage. of fluid through the valve for fluid flow. An example of a valved catheter assembly with a valve opener is described in US Patent No. 8,333,735, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. The valve opener may have a nose section having an orifice and a plunger section located proximally of the nose section. The nose section may be pushed toward the valve to open the one or more slots in the valve, such as three slots defining three flaps. The plunger section may comprise two or more plunger components having a space between them. The gap can allow fluid to flow through the plunger components and through the hole in the nose section. Referring again to Figure 1 in addition to Figure 2, the housing 102 of the present ExD catheter assembly 100 comprises a left frame or first frame 193 and a second frame or right frame 194 coupled together. Each structure comprises a nose portion 184a, a body portion 188a and a base portion 190a. The two nose parts 184a may be joined together to form one end of the nose 184, the two body parts 188a may be joined together to form a body 188, and the two base parts 190a may be joined together to form one end of the base 190. In one example, the nose end or nose portion 184 is provided with a nose tip 186. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí having an elongated cylinder-like structure that has a hole to accommodate the catheter tube 110 and the needle 112, which is located within the catheter tube. The end of The nose or nose portion 184 may further include a nose base 192, which has an enlarged portion formed with the tip 186, and a tapered distal portion. Multiple support fins or projections may be provided at the intersection between the tip 186 and the nose base 192. In other examples, the nose end 184 may be a spherical or rounded dome that has an opening to accommodate the catheter tube and needle. In other examples, the nose end 184 may have a different shape, such as resembling a multi-sided structure connected to form a closed end with a central opening to accommodate the needle and catheter tube. The body 188 has an interior space 104 for housing a catheter assembly, which may be a catheter assembly as described with reference to Figure 2. A body opening or first opening 196 opens into the interior space 104. As shown shown, the body opening 196 extends from the end of the nose 184 to the end of the base 190. In one example, a second opening opposite the first opening 196 is provided with the body 188 so that the interior space 104 can be accessed from the two openings in the body. Thus, the body may therefore have a through passageway defined by the two body openings 196. In other examples, the body 188 only has a single opening 196 leading to the interior space 104 as shown with the opposite side being is solid or enclosed by the wall surfaces of the first structure and the second structure. Optionally, the closed side may have small windows or openings for access or ventilation, but not a full opening, such as that of the body opening 196. The base or base end 190 extends from the body 188 and has multiple sides. In one example, there may be four sides 200,202, 204, 206 that define an interior space 208, which is open to the interior space 104 of the body 188. In other examples, the base 190 may incorporate a generally elongated cylinder or a non-circular cylinder. For discussion purposes, side 204 and side 206 can be identified as the top side and bottom side, respectively. Side 200 and side 202 can be identified as the left side and the right side, respectively. The sides can also be understood as the first side 200, the second side 202, the third side 204 and the fourth side 206. These specific nomenclatures are given to allow a particular side to be called in relation to other sides only, but are not limitations unless the context indicates otherwise. The base 190 may have an open proximal end to allow the needle cone 122 to extend proximally therefrom, proximal to an end surface 126a, in the ready-to-use position of Figure 1. As shown, the first side 200 and the second side 202 of the base end 190 may each have an opening 210 to allow viewing and access to the interior space 208 of the base end 190, such as to facilitate or assist mounting of the catheter assembly 108 in this, as further discussed below. The upper side 204 of the base end 190 may be provided with a first lever or upper lever 214 and the lower side 206 is provided with a lower lever 216 (Figure 3). As CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí is discussed below, when a user simultaneously applies a compression force and a distally directed force on the upper lever 214 and a compression force and a proximally directed force on the lever lower 216, the user can cause the left housing structure 193 and the right housing structure 194 to move relative to each other and the detents of the first structure 193 and the second structure 194 to separate and the housing to move. then separate into separate components of the housing, that is, the left frame 193 and the right frame 194. In other words, by manipulating the upper lever 214 and the lower lever 216, the user can cause the housing 102 to separate into two or more housing components. Separating the housing 102 into housing components can then expose the catheter assembly 108 to be separated from the housing 102 after successful venipuncture so that the catheter connector 130 (Figure 2) can then be attached to a IV line and affixed to the patient, such as by the use of adhesive tape or fixation dressing. In other examples, by rearranging the retainers or engagement tabs between the left housing structure 193 and the right housing structure 194, the user can simultaneously apply a compression force and a proximally directed force on the first lever or upper lever 214 and a compressive force and a distally directed force on the second lever or lower lever 216 to move the two housing sections with respect to each other and the detents on the first frame 193 and the second frame 194 to separate. Figure 3 is a side view of the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 1. In the orientation shown, multiple surface ornaments 220 can be seen on the outer surface of the first or left structure 193, specifically at or on the body left 188. A similar set of surface ornamentations may be provided with the right or second frame 194. A generally flat top edge 224 is provided with both body frames 193, 194. Additionally, the most distal edge of the top lever 214 is provided with located proximally of the most distal edge of the second lever or lower lever 216. This arrangement is used to allow easy gripping of the upper lever 214 by a thumb and the lower lever 216 by an outer edge of the index finger to separate the housing 102 into housing components, as discussed further below. For example, the index finger may push against the proximally oriented curved surface 216a of the lower lever 216 and push distally or in the distal direction. In other examples, the relative arrangements between the upper and lower levers 214,216 may be altered or arranged differently depending on the types of retainer or snap connections incorporated to retain the first structure 193 and the second structure 194 together, as further discussed below. forward. Referring now to Figure 4, a bottom perspective view of the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 1 is shown. As shown, the housing 102 comprises a wall 230 opposing the body opening 196 (Figure 1). along the top side of the housing, as described above. A seam 232 extends longitudinally of the housing 102, marking the interface between the left frame 193 and the right frame 194 of the housing along the body 188 and nose end 184 of the housing. Seam 232 extends from the end of the nose 184 to e cj cznn / zznz / E / Yi including across the end of the base 190 of the housing. However, the seam may be non-linear or not in a straight line. For example, seam 232 may be off-axis compared to the straight line defined by seam 232 along the body and end of the nose. The seam at the base end 190 may be near the edge or intersection of the sides, such as the right side 202 and the bottom side 206. Multiple pairs of retainers may be incorporated between the left frame 193 and the right frame 194 to secure the two structures together as shown in Figure 4. In one example, a catheter assembly can be located within the housing 102 before coupling the left structure 193 to the right structure 194, or vice versa. After use, such as after successful venipuncture, the upper lever 214 (Figure 1) and the second or lower lever 216 can be actuated to separate the retainers to then separate the housing into components, such as to separate the left frame 193 of the right frame, to allow separation of the catheter assembly from the housing. Referring now to Figure 5, the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 1 is shown with the first frame or left frame 193 separated from the right frame 194 and with the catheter assembly 108 retained in the right frame or second frame 194 In one example, the right frame 194 is provided with the second side 202 and the upper side or third side 204 on the base portion 190a, which are generally at right angles to each other. The first side 200 and the bottom side or fourth side 206 are provided with the left frame 193, which has been separated from the right frame 194 in the separated view shown. To secure the catheter assembly 108 to the right frame 194, and particularly the needle cone from moving, the bottom wall structure or section 230a of the right frame 194 ends with a proximal edge 240 that is located along along an axial position in the right frame to accommodate the flange or extension 160 in the needle cone 122. Therefore, the distal edge of the flange 160 is delimited from shifting or moving in the distal direction by the proximal edge 240 on the lower wall structure 230a. To ensure that the needle cone 122 moves in the proximal direction, the second side 202 is provided with a channel 244 and a shoulder 246 (Figure 6) on a proximal edge of the channel to retain the flange 161 on the cone of the needle. needle. Channel 244 located on the second side 202 and the corresponding channel on the first side 200 (Figure 1) define a space or width to accommodate the Luer threads 154 on the catheter connector and the width of the flange 161 on the catheter connector. needle. Additionally, non-circular structures for engaging flange 161 and slot channel 244, such as through the use of multi-sided structures, prevent the needle cone from rotating while within the space defined by the sides of the end of base 190. This in turn holds the needle cone in the assembled position so that the needle bevel can be oriented in the desired position without prematurely rotating before performing the venipuncture. Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the right frame or second frame 194 showing the body 188 of the right frame 194 and the base portion 190a of the right frame without the catheter assembly. With continued reference to Figure 6 and further reference to Figure 5, the second side 202 of the base portion 190a is shown with the channel 244 and the shoulder 246. Multiple male tabs or retainers 250 are provided on a lower edge 252 of the second side 202. In the example shown, the CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí tabs 250 may incorporate a hook-shaped structure to engage female retainers located on the first or left structure 193, as further described below. Optionally, there may be more than two retainers or only one retainer 250. Each of the male retainers 250 is shown with a tip pointing in the distal direction to engage a female retainer from a proximal position of the female retainer and move or slide to a distal position to engage. Accordingly, the right frame 194 and the retainers 250 must be displaced or moved in the proximal direction with respect to the left frame 193 to separate the male retainers or tabs 250 from the female retainers on the left frame, as further discussed below. In other examples, the male retainers 250 on the right frame may point in the proximal direction such that separation of the male and female frames will require movement of the right frame in the distal direction with respect to the left frame 193 to separate the retainers. male or tabs 250 of the female retainers on the left frame. Along the upper side 204, a cutout 254 is provided to form the upper lever 214. The cutout 254 is provided with three sides with the fourth side connected to the base of the upper lever 214. The upper lever 214 can be formed to project outwardly away from the direction of the lower edge 252. As shown, the upper lever 214 has a conical or ramped portion 214a and a contact portion 214b. Contact portion 214b provides a surface for the user to touch or manipulate. A projection or protuberance 260 is provided on the bottom surface 264 of the top side 204 and is recessed from a side edge 262 of the top side. The recessed space between the side edge 262 and the boss 260 is sized to accommodate the thickness of the first side 200 of the left frame 193 when the left frame is assembled to the right frame 194. The projection 260 can function as an alignment tab to used to align the first side 200 with the side edge 262 so that when assembled with the first side 200, a generally level surface is provided between the side edge 262 and the outside of the first side 200. Optionally, the lip 260 may be omitted. A second projection or protrusion 268 may also be provided spaced apart from the first projection 260 on the bottom surface 264 of the upper side 204. In one example, the second projection 268 is aligned with the side edge 262 and is configured to engage a slot or corresponding recess in the left side or first side 200 of the left structure 193 to register the two structures 193, 194 at the base end 190 along an axial direction of the housing 102. In one example, the second projection 268 has a structure similar to an arrowhead with two conical edges and a vertex between them. The arrowhead-like structure is configured to sit in a corresponding seat on the left side 200 of the left structure 193 and the two tapered surfaces allow the projection 268 to escape from the corresponding seat by allowing the corresponding tapered surfaces to slide between yes when the upper lever 214 and the lower lever 214 (Figure 3) are grasped and slid relative to each other. cj cznn / zznz / B / Yi Also shown is a shoulder 245 formed on the bottom surface 264 of the top wall 204, just distal to the cutout 254. The shoulder 245 on the bottom surface is configured to support the flange on the taper of the needle, similar to the function of the shoulder 246 on the second side 202. Figure 7 shows the front or distal portions of the right frame 194, shown with a catheter tube extending out of the distal opening 342 of the nose portion 184a. A tab or retainer 250 with a distally pointing free end located on a side edge 270 of the bottom wall structure 230a is shown. The male tab or retainer 250 may mate with a corresponding female retainer formed with the left frame 193. In other examples, additional tabs 250 may be provided along the side edge 270 of the bottom wall frame. Two protrusions 268 are provided with the distal portions of the right frame 194. As shown, a lower protrusion 268 is provided on the side edge 270 of the lower wall frame 230a to engage a slot in the left frame to provide additional rigidity. along seam 232 (Figure 4). A top protrusion 268 is provided at the side edge 272 of the base 192 to engage a slot in the left frame to provide additional rigidity along a top seam 276 (Figure 1) at the nose end 184 of the housing 102. Element 232 may be generically referred to as a seam, which may be the top seam or the bottom seam. However, to provide different reference numerals for more easily distinguishing between a top seam and a bottom seam, the top seam may be referred to as 276 and the bottom seam 232. Figure 8 is a close-up view of the right frame 194 with the catheter assembly 108 attached thereto, similar to Figure 5. In the orientation shown, the right frame 194 is clearly shown with a lower wall frame 230a, a top wall structure or section 230b, and a side wall structure or section 230c, each with a surface. In one example, the top wall or top wall structure 230b has a length that extends in the same longitudinal direction as the needle and a width that is perpendicular or radial to the length. The width of the upper wall structure 230b is smaller in dimension than the width of the lower wall structure 203a. These different widths between the upper and lower wall structures, for example, the upper wall structure 230b does not project toward the needle as much as the lower wall, allow for clearance along the top of the housing and for the part to bottom closes when the first structure is attached to the second structure, as shown in Figure 4. A shoulder 278 is provided between the upper wall structure 230b and the upper side 204 and a raised knuckle 280 distal to the upper lever 214 is provided. The upward step on the shoulder 278 provides a relatively larger interior space at the base end. of the housing to accommodate the flange on the needle hub 122 and the Luer threads on the catheter hub 130. The raised spindle 280 is not connected to the contact portion 214b of the upper lever 214, but is provided with a surface conical to imitate the ramp 214a at the base of the upper lever 214, to appear more symmetrical. A space 282 is provided between the upper lever 214 and the raised knuckle 280, cj cznn / zznz / E / Yi which may incorporate separate gripping protrusions 284. The upper lever 214 may also incorporate similar separate gripping protrusions 284. Referring now to Figure 9, a perspective view of the left frame or first frame 193 is shown, which resembles the right frame 194 with some exceptions. The left frame 193 is configured to mate with the right frame 194 to form the housing shown in Figure 1 and elsewhere. In the present embodiment, the first structure 193 is provided with a nose portion 184a, a body portion 188a, and a base portion 190a. The left frame 193 and the right frame 194 can be joined together to form a nose end 184, a body 188 and a base end 190. In the present embodiment, the bottom wall structure 230a is provided with a coupling groove 288 for coupling the tab or retainer 250 (Figure 7) and a receiving slot 290 to receive the projection 268 on the right frame 194. As further described below, the engaging slot 288 may have a retainer to receive a corresponding retainer on the right frame 194. However, the receiving slot 290 may incorporate a simple channel without mating surfaces to receive the lower projection 268 on the right frame 194, as further described below. Furthermore, shown in Figure 9, proximal of the body part 188a, is a base part 190a, which has a left or first side 200 and a lower or fourth side 206 that has the second or lower lever 216 formed thereon. . The first side 200 and the bottom side 206 resemble two wall structures that are placed at right angles to each other with the bottom lever 216 on one of the walls. One or more gripping elements 284 may be provided on the exterior of the lower lever 216. Referring now to Figure 10, a detailed view of the distal portion of the cover 102 is shown showing the left frame 193 attached to the right frame 194. As shown, the mating slot 288 has an opening for entry of the tab 250, which has a conical surface 294 and a tab 296. The tab 250 on the right frame 194 can enter the opening of the mating slot 288 and then move distally to engage the tab 296 of the mating slot 288 to complete the mating between the tab 250 and the mating slot 288. To decouple the left and right frames, tab 250 is removed in reverse. The tongue 250 can move proximally with respect to the engagement groove 288. The proximal movement causes the conical surface 294 of the gear groove 288 to move against the conical surface 298 in the tongue 296 to impart a torque component forces that include a radially directed force to cause the left and right frames to move away from each other to separate the tongue 250 from the gear groove 288. At the same time, the lower boss 268 on the right frame 294 separates from the receiving groove 290 on the left frame 193. Similar coupling mechanisms are provided at the base end 190 of the housing (Figure 1) to allow separation of the two frames 193,194 at the base end. Figure 11 shows an enlarged view of the left frame 193 at the base part 190a. As shown, the bottom or fourth side 206 of the base end 206 comprises two coupling cj cznn / zznz / E / Yii slots 288 formed in the edge 262 of the bottom side. Each of the mating slots 288 comprises an opening to receive the corresponding tab 250 in the lower edge 252 of the second side 202 of the right frame 194 (Figure 6). A lip 300 is provided in each mating slot with a concave recess to receive and mate the fingers on the corresponding tab 250. The space between the tab finger 250 and the bottom edge 252 is configured to receive the lip 300 therebetween to mate tab 250 to mating slot. It should be noted that the mating slot 288 toward the distal end of the base section has an opening that is bounded on at least three sides and is relatively longer than the length of the corresponding tab 250 to allow axial movement of the tab to occur. disengagement from the coupling slot. The mating slot 288 at the proximal end of the base section is bounded on two sides only with no third side to bound the corresponding tab. The first side 200 of the base part 190a is provided with an opening 210, as described above, and two receiving slots 290 to engage or align with rib 260 and projection 268 in the top wall of the base section of the frame. right 194. As shown, the more distal receiving slot 290 has a recess formed in the inner surface 304 of the first side 200 while the more proximal receiving slot 290 has a recess formed in the outer surface of the first side 200. This The arrangement allows the wall structure 306 of the first side 200 to bear or pass between the projection 260 and projection 268 as shown with reference to Figure 6. Like the right frame 194, the base portion 190a is provided with a channel 244 to interact with the flange in the needle hub. The barrier wall 308 distal to the channel 244 is provided with a shaped contour 310 to accommodate the catheter connector, when the left structure 193 is attached to the right structure 194 and the catheter connector is located between them. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing the left structure 193 at the base portion 190a, similar to that of Figure 11, but from a different perspective. Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing the left structure 193 in the body part 188a and the tip part 184a. The present view is similar to the view shown with reference to Figure 9, but from a different perspective. In the present embodiment, the receiving slot 290 in the nose portion 184a for engaging the upper protuberance 268 of the right frame 194 (Figure 7) is more clearly shown. Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the left structure 193 separated from the right structure 194 and with the catheter assembly 108 retained in the left structure 193, to show how the catheter assembly 108 sits within the formed profile of the left structure, similar to that discussed with reference to Figure 5, but with the left structure instead of a right structure 194. Referring again to Figures 1,5 and 14 and in use, the ExD catheter assembly 100 is advanced against a patient, to a selected catheter location, such as a deep or superficial vein. The user can pierce the target vein with the guidance of a viewing machine, such as an ultrasound monitor with an ultrasound probe. A rapid return of blood can be observed CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYPrimary Ví flowing into the needle hub 122. The insertion angle of the ExD 100 catheter assembly is then lowered before further advancing the ExD 100 catheter assembly to place the catheter tube deep into the vein. In some examples, a guide wire dispenser that has a guide wire that extends through the lumen of the needle can be used with the ExD catheter assembly. For example, a dispenser SonoStik® guidewire having a housing can be placed in the proximal opening of the catheter hub after removing the vent plug 124 and the guidewire projecting through the lumen of the needle and advanced in a manner known in the industry. The guide wire can be used to guide the catheter tube to a desired treatment location within the body. In some examples, the guide wire dispenser can be mounted on the ExD catheter assembly prior to initial insertion of the needle and the assembly does not have removable vent plug 124. The needle and catheter tube are advanced over the guide wire and stop at or just before the nose end 184 contacts the skin. If the ExD catheter assembly is used without a guidewire, then the ExD catheter assembly can be advanced without first advancing the guidewire. The healthcare professional can then place his thumb on the first or upper lever 214 and an index finger against the lower lever (Figure 3) to separate the housing 102 (Figure 1) into two or more housing components, such as separating the left frame 193 from the right frame 194, as described above. Once the housing 102 is separated into smaller components, the catheter assembly 108 is free from the housing. The user may then retract needle 122 and needle hub 122 from the catheter hub, as described above with reference to Figure 2. For the ExD catheter assemblies and their components described hereinafter, it is understood that when a feature is shown, but not expressly described, and is otherwise the same or similar to the feature or features described elsewhere, such as the above with Reference to Figures 1 to 14, the part or parts described that are shown in all figures of the drawings, but which are not expressly described due to redundancy and because the knowledge is based on a basis established by the previous disclosures However, they can be understood to be described or taught by the same or similar characteristics expressly stated in the text for the modalities in which the characteristic or characteristics are described. Stated another way, subsequent disclosures in this application are based on prior disclosures unless the context indicates otherwise. Therefore, it is understood that the disclosure teaches a person of ordinary skill in the art the disclosed embodiments and the characteristics thereof without having to repeat similar components and characteristics in all embodiments, since a skilled technician would not ignore structural characteristics. similar having read about them in several previous paragraphs nor would I ignore the knowledge acquired in previous descriptions set forth in the same specification. As such, the same or similar features shown in the following ExD catheter assemblies incorporate the teachings of previous embodiments unless the context indicates otherwise. Therefore, it is contemplated that the modalities described below enjoy the benefit of modalities described CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí expressly above, such as characteristics and structures of modalities described above, unless the context indicates otherwise. Referring now to Figure 15, there is shown an extended-dwell catheter assembly 100 provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. The present ExD catheter assembly 100 shares similar aspects with the ExD catheter assembly of Figures 1 to 14, and in particular a similar housing configuration 102 in which a first or left structure 193 and a second or right structure 194 They join together to form the housing and can be separated to release the catheter hub from the housing. As shown, the housing 102 comprises a nose end 184, a body 188 and a base end 190. The housing 102 has a body opening 196 that opens into an interior space 104. A catheter assembly 108 is placed in the interior space 104. The catheter assembly 108 may be similar to the catheter assembly 108 described elsewhere herein, such as with reference to Figure 2, and has a needle guard located within the catheter connector 130. and a needle hub 122 with a vent plug 124 projecting proximally from an end surface 126a of the housing 102. At the distal end 120, part of the needle 112, which is attached to the needle hub 122, and the catheter tube 110, which is attached to the catheter hub 130, projects a distal opening 342 of the housing, at the end of the nose 184. Optionally, a guide wire dispenser, such as a SonoStik® guide wire dispenser, can be connected to the proximal opening of the needle hub, after removing the vent plug 124. Each of the first and second two structures 193,194 comprises a wall structure 230 comprising a bottom wall section 230a (Figure 16), a top wall section 230b and a side wall section 230c. Multiple projections or ornaments 220 are provided on the outer surface of the side wall section 230, which may incorporate projections of round, elongated, polygonal or irregular shape. The projections 220 may be spaced apart and provided for aesthetics and to facilitate gripping of the housing 102 on the two side walls 230c of the housing. The base end 190 at the proximal end 126 of the housing is provided with multiple side walls, including a first or left side wall 200, a second or right side wall 202 (Figure 19) opposing the first side wall, a third upper side wall 204 and a fourth lower side wall 206 (Figure 16) that opposes the third side wall. The side walls at the base end 190 define a cross-sectional structure of generally square or rectangular shape that has a hollow interior to accommodate the catheter assembly 108. In other examples, the side walls may define a different shape, such as oval. or round. A seam 232 passes through the upper side wall 204 and the lower side wall 206, and through the nose end 184 of the housing 102. The grip side wall 200 and the second side wall 202 (Figure 19) define a width of the housing at the base end 190. In one example, the width at the base end 190 is greater than a width of the body 188 immediately distal of the base end 190. In other examples, the width at the base end 190 and that of the body 188 immediately distal of the base end 190 may be CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí generally equal or the same. The width of the body 188, measured as a distance between the two side wall sections 230c of the first and second structures, either from their respective outer surfaces or inner surfaces, may be generally constant in the distal direction until approximately the beginning of the activation area or region 320 of the body, where the body widens in the distal direction to a maximum width at a distal end of the body 322. From there, the width rapidly decreases to a peak or apex 324, where the distal opening 342 is located. As further described below, the activation region 320 of the body 188 is expanded so that each of the two structures 193, 194 or at least one of the two structures may incorporate an activation structure or ramp 328. The activation ramp 328 is sized and shaped to interact with the catheter connector 130 to allow separation of the housing 102 in two or more housing components. Figure 16 is a perspective view of the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 15 shown from a different perspective. The two lower wall sections 230a can be seen in the first frame 193 and the right frame 194. A cutout 330 is provided to receive the flange extension 160 of the needle hub 122 at the proximal end 126 of the housing 102, which is defined by partial cuts on the underside 206 of the base end 190 and partial cuts on the proximal ends of the two structures 193, 194. An opening 334 is provided near the distal end 120 of the housing 102, in the bottom wall of the housing. Aperture 334 may be elongated, may have a proximal edge 334a, may have a distal edge 334b, and may have lateral edges 334c. In other examples, the opening 334 may have different shapes, as long as the shape does not interfere with the activation ramp 328 located inside the housing 102. A seam 232 is provided longitudinally of the housing and runs from the distal end 120 to the proximal end 126 and is not continuous at the rear opening 330 and the front opening 334. At the distal edge 334b ​​of the front opening 334, a end cap component or gate 340 at the distal end of each of the left and right frames 193, 194. Thus, the housing has two gates or end cap components 340. With particular reference to the end cap component end 340 of the second frame 194, the discussions of which apply equally to the end cover component of the first frame 193, the end cover component 340 has a bottom section or side wall 340a, an upper section or side wall 340b (Figure 17) and a side section 340c. In one example, side section 340c has a cutout 342a, resembling a semicircle, so that two side sections 340c with two cutouts 342a from two adjacent end cap components 340 form a passage or opening 342 to accommodate the needle. 112 and catheter tube 110. The passageway 342 formed by the two cuts 342a provides support and guidance for the needle and catheter to allow venipuncture of an extended-length IV catheter, with or without a guidewire, and a short midline catheter approximately 8-10 cm in length without an integrated guidewire. With continuing reference to Figures 16 and 17, the lower section 340a of the lid component of the CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí end 340 is separated from the lower wall 230a of the housing wall 230 by a gap 344 and the upper or upper section 340b of the end cap component is separated from the upper wall 230b of the housing wall by a gap 344. Therefore, each end cap component 340 is attached to the remaining part of the respective left and right structures 193, 194 by a strip or layer of material 346, which has a thickness. In one example, the strip of material 346 may have the same thickness as the wall thickness of the side section 230c and the front section 340c. In other examples, the strip of material 346 may comprise a notch 348 to thin the thickness of the material strip 346 so that it is thinner than the thickness of the side section 230c and the front section 340c. In one example, the strip of material 346 (Figure 15) connecting the left end cap component 340 to the left frame 193 and the strip of material 346 connecting the right end cap component 340 to the right frame 194 can act as a hinge, such as a living hinge. Therefore, the housing 102 of the present embodiment has two gates or end cap components 340 with each gate pivoted by a resilient hinge 346. The live hinge allows the end cap or gate component 340 and the respective structure to joins, that is, the front end wall 347, rotate, rotate or oscillate relative to each other. For example, if the first and second structures 193,194 are separated from each other starting from the proximal end 126 when the assembly is activated due to the catheter hub 130 pushing against one or more activation ramps 328, as further discussed below, The first and second structures may swing outward from each other and rotate around their respective strip of material or living hinge 346. The two end cap components 340 may remain attached to each other as the two structures rotate around the two elastic joints of the same material 346 until they also separate to release the catheter connector 130 from the two structures, as further discussed below. In other examples, as described below, the two structures remain joined together while the two end cap components 340 rotate or rotate around the two elastic joints of the same material 346, similar to the opening of a double gate to providing access to the opening at the distal end of the cover 102. Referring now to Figure 17, the ExD catheter assembly of Figure 15 is shown without the first structure 193 so that the interior space 104 of the now separated housing 102 is shown more clearly. The second structure 194 is shown with joining edges 350 where the seams 232 are formed with the joining edge 350 of the first structure 193. The left structure or first structure 193 and the right structure or second structure 194 can be connected to each other along along their respective joining edges 350. The mating slots, tabs and / or detents 354 may be used to removably secure the two structures, as further described below. The right structure 194 is shown with a cutout 334m that forms part of the opening 334 shown in Figure 16, at the bottom or bottom of the housing 102. In the figure, the catheter assembly 108 is shown located in the interior space 104 of the housing 102, having the catheter needle and tube passing through the cutout 342, and the catheter connector 130, or at least the tab push button 176 of the catheter connector, positioned distally of the end of CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí base 190. The needle cone 122 and vent plug 124 project the proximal opening 101 of the housing 102, with the flange 161 of the needle cone 122 engaging the housing 102 as further discussed below with reference to Figures 18A and 18B. Now, referring to Figures 18A and 18B, an enlarged partial perspective view of the assembly of Figure 17 and a further enlarged view of the catheter assembly located within the right frame 194 are shown, respectively. As shown, the flange 161 extending from the needle cone 122, which has a generally square or rectangular shape contour, is arranged so that a plane defined by the flange is generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the housing 102. (Figures 15 and 16). The portions of the flange 161 that project outwardly from the outer profile of the needle cone 122 engage a groove 358 (Figure 18B) formed with the multiple sides of the base end 190, such as with the first side 200, the second side 202, the third side 204 and the fourth side 206. The slot 358 may be a recessed channel formed in the wall thickness of the multiple sides of the base end. Slot 358 may be formed continuously across sides other than where cutout 330 (Figure 16) is provided on fourth side 206 to accommodate flange extension 160 of needle cone 122. Slot 358 may be structured to accepting, receiving or housing the flange 161 in the needle cone, which includes where the flange transits between the various sides, such as the intersections of the sides of the flange 161. In the ready-to-use position where the ExD catheter assembly 100 is ready to be used to perform a venipuncture, the needle connector 122 can be held immobile from axial movement by delimiting the flange extension 160 of the needle connector from the distal movement through the lower housing edge 330a in the cut 330 of the two lower wall structures 330. To delimit the needle cone 122 from moving in the proximal direction, the flange 161 extending from the outside of the needle cone 122 is positioned against the proximal lip of the groove 358 of the base end 190. Additionally, non-circular structures for engaging the flange 161 and the groove 358, such as through the use of multi-sided structures, prevent the needle cone rotates while within the space defined by the sides of the base end 190. This in turn holds the needle cone in the assembled position so that the needle bevel can be oriented in the desired position , as assembled, without premature twisting before performing the venipuncture. With continued reference to Figures 18A and 18B and particularly Figure 18B, the external threads 154 of the catheter connector 130 comprise a groove 362 for receiving a tab 364 projecting from the inner surface of the upper side 204 of the base end 190. In In other examples, the arrangement may be reversed and the top side 204 may incorporate a slot and the catheter connector may incorporate a tab. In still other examples, retainers may be provided between the catheter connector and the housing at other locations along their respective structures to engage the two. The coupling ensures proper alignment between the catheter connector 130 and the housing 102 in the ready-to-use position and prevents the catheter connector from rotating while engaging the housing. The catheter hub 130 is structured to slide axially in the distal direction CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí after successful placement of the needle and catheter connector into a patient's vein while the needle connector remains attached to the base end 190 of the housing. In one example , the outer threads 154 are structured to ride or slide on the inner surfaces of the two lower walls 230a of the housing 102. For example, and with further reference to Figure 15, a user may push the push tab 176 to advance the needle hub 130 in a distal direction. The push tab 176 is shown located between the two upper wall sections 230b of the two frames 193, 194. As shown, the upper edge of the push tab 176 projects above the outer surfaces of the two upper wall sections 230b to be presented for contact and for pushing by a healthcare professional.In some examples, the push tab 176 may be structured such that the upper edge of the push tab projects further up the two upper wall sections 230b to present itself as a larger target for pushing by a healthcare professional. As further discussed below, when the healthcare professional pushes the push tab 176 in the distal direction after placement of the catheter tube in the vein, and optionally after advancing a guidewire into the vein to guide the tube of catheter, the catheter connector body 130 abuts one or more activation ramps 328, on the left frame 193, the right frame 194, or one each of the two frames 193, 184, to make the two frames 193, 184 separate starting from the proximal end 126 of the housing 102. The push tab 176 can be molded to a length or height sufficient to extend above the housing to allow pushing by a healthcare professional. Optionally, a tab extender can be attached to a standard push tab to increase the height of the push tab for pushing by a healthcare professional, as discussed further below. Figure 19 is a perspective view of the second or right frame 194, shown without the left frame 193 and without the catheter assembly 108. The second frame 194 is shown with a base portion 190a having a second side 202, upper side 204 and lower side 206. The upper side and the lower side are relatively shorter in length than the second side 202. The upper side 204 and the lower side 206 of the right frame 194 can be referred to as partial sides since the sections Similar upper and lower side sections are carried by the first frame or the left frame 193 so that when two partial upper sections join at their respective joining edges 350 and the two partial lower sections join at their respective joining edges 350, they form the upper side 204 and the lower side 206 of the base end 190 (Figure 16). As shown, partial upper side section 204 incorporates a slot 368 and partial lower side section 206 incorporates a slot 368, at joining edges 350. The slots can be generally rectangular in shape with sharp corners or with radiused corners, but instead they can embody a round shape, a square shape, a star shape, an oval shape, a polygonal shape, or an irregular shape. The slot 368 in the partial upper side section 204 and the slot 368 in the partial lower side section 206 can be located along the same axial position of the longitudinal axis of the right frame. In other examples, they can be moved axially from the same CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí axial position. As shown, the two grooves 368 are located generally along the proximal end of the two joining edges 350. The body portion 188a is located distal to the base portion 190a, which has a wall 230 with a top wall section 230b, a bottom wall section 230a, and a side wall section 230c, as described above. In one example, two slots 370, similar to slots 368 in the base portion 190a, are provided at the joining edge 350 of the bottom wall structure or section 230a. The two slots 370 may have the same shape as the two slots 368 in the base portion 190a or may be different. In one example, one of the two slots 370 in the bottom wall section 230a may be located adjacent to the housing edge 330a (Figure 18B) of the bottom cutout 330 and the second slot 370 may be located distally therefrom. In other examples, there may be only one slot in the bottom wall section 230a or more than two slots and they may be located elsewhere along the joining edge 350. With continued reference to Figure 19, the activation ramp 328 is located on the interior surface 374 of the side wall section 230c of the housing wall 230 closer to the distal end 120 than the proximal end 126, in the activation region 320 (Figure 15) of the frame 194. The activation ramp 328 has a proximal ramp section 328a, a distal ramp section 328b and a central ramp section 328c, which is located between the proximal and distal ramp sections. In one example, the proximal ramp section 328A comprises a slope increasing from the interior surface 374 of the right structure 194, which can be viewed as a structure having a surface that extends radially away from the interior surface. When assembled with the left frame 193 and the assembled housing having a catheter assembly located therein, the proximal ramp section 328a extends from the inner surface towards the needle or towards the longitudinal axis passing through the housing. The longitudinal axis passing through the housing can be considered as a reference line and the proximal ramp section 328 can be understood to have a surface that is further away from the reference line and gradually approaches the reference line. as the ramp approaches the center ramp section 328c. The central ramp portion 328c has a surface that is closer to the reference line than the proximal ramp portion 328a and may comprise a generally flat area or a surface area with a large radius. The distal ramp portion 328b, in one example, comprises a slope decreasing from the central ramp portion 328c, which has a surface receding from the reference line. If the proximal ramp portion 328a has a positive slope, then the distal ramp portion 328b has a negative slope. Therefore, the activation ramp 328 shown in Figure 8 can be considered an inclined structure that rises to a peak or crest in the central ramp section and then has a negative slope. In other examples, the distal ramp portion 328b may be constant or flat with the central ramp portion 328c, without any slope. In still other examples, the distal ramp portion 328b may have a positive slope that continues to extend toward the reference line. Preferably, the distal ramp portion 328c has a negative slope. cj cznn / zznz / E / Yi When the left and right frames 193,194 are assembled together to form a cover 102, the space between the two adjacent activation ramps 328, which may be referred to as the activation space 400 (Figure 28), if two activation ramps are incorporated, or between the activation ramp 328 and the interior surface 374 of the adjacent structure, if only one activation ramp is incorporated, may vary. The activation gap may narrow as it extends from proximal ramp portion 328a to a narrower point in central ramp portion 328c, or from two proximal ramp portions to a narrower point in two central ramp portions. As further described below, activation gap 400 can be incorporated as a means against which catheter hub 130 (Figure 2) can be advanced to impart a couple of component forces to then separate housing 102 into two or more housing components. Referring further to Figure 19, a cavity 378 is provided with the end cap component 340 of the second frame or right frame 194. Recess 378 may have three sides and a fourth side that opens. Optionally, the recess 378 can incorporate a four-sided slot, similar to one of the slots 368, 370 in the body section or the base section. Recess 378 in end cover component 340 may be sized and shaped to receive a corresponding tab in the adjacent end cover component in a press fit or interference fit arrangement. In some examples, the location of the hole 378 and the tab to engage the hole can be reversed so that the hole can be located in the end cap component of the first frame or left frame 193. Figures 20 and 21 are different perspective views of the right frame 194 showing various details. Figure 22 is a further perspective view of the right or second frame 194. In the view shown, the activation ramp 328 is implemented as two separate activation ramp sections 328x, 328y, each with a ramp portion. proximal 328a, a distal ramp portion 328b and a central ramp portion 328c. The two separate activation ramp sections 328x, 328y may operate as explained above. A space or void 380 is provided in the distal ramp sections of the two ramp sections 328x, 328y, formed by the negative slopes of the two distal ramp sections. A small gap is located between the two ramp sections 328x, 328y. In other examples, activation ramp 328 is formed as a single ramp structure without a gap. The activation ramp 328 surface may be generally flat or may have a large radius to form a slight curve to accommodate the contour of the catheter hub. As can be seen, when the second frame 194 or the right frame 194 is attached to the first frame 193 or the left frame and the catheter hub 130 is advanced distally to abut the two separate activation ramp sections 328x, 328y , the catheter connector nose section 130 (Figure 2) initially adjoins the two proximal ramp portions 328a of the two separate activation ramp sections 328x, 328y, then moves into the gap 380 as the nose section continues to move in the distal direction. Then, the middle portion of the catheter connector, which is larger in diameter or size than the nose section CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí of the catheter hub, moves over the two proximal ramp portions 328a to further expand the two structures 193, 194 away from each other. At this point, the two structures 193, 194 are completely separated from each other, except for the engagement at the two end cap components 340, at the distal end of the housing. If not completely separated proximally from the two end cap components, further movement of the external threads 154 of the catheter connector 130 against the two proximal ramp portions 328a further expands the two structures 193, 194 away from each other so that the tongues and grooves of the two structures are completely separated from each other, except for the engagement at the two end cap components 340. Finally, the last engagement between the recess 378 and the tongue 398 (Figure 26) on the left frame 193 can be separated by physically grasping one or both of the frames and separating one or both frames between Yeah. The catheter connector can be completed, such as connected to a drip line and taped to a patient. In one example, cavity 378 in end cap component 340 has two side walls 340a, 340b, a bottom wall 340c, and a center wall 340d. In one example, the two side walls 340a, 340b each comprise a surface and wherein the two surfaces of the two side walls taper or converge in the direction of the bottom wall 340c. Therefore, the surface of the central wall 340d has a trapezoidal shape. Therefore, the cavity 378 is conical and has a width or space at the opening of the cavity 378 that is greater than the width or space at the bottom of the cavity. This configuration allows the corresponding tab on the end cap component 340 of the first structure 193 to engage the recess 378 and for the coupling to be easily separated to facilitate separation of the two structures 193, 194 on the two end cap components. end and then separate the catheter connector from the housing of the ExD catheter assembly. Figure 23 is a perspective view of the second structure 194 of Figure 22, shown from a reverse view to show the outer surface 374a of the right structure. As shown, the outer surface is provided with multiple separate projections or ornamentations 220, similar to that shown for the left structure of Figure 15. In one example, the two different sets of projections 220 for the two structures can be the same and can have the same spacing. In other examples, the projections may have different shapes and / or different spaces between two adjacent projections. Figure 24 is a side view of the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 15 shown with the catheter assembly 108 mounted with the first frame or left frame 193 and where the second frame 194 has been removed to more clearly show the arrangement , similar to the arrangement of Figure 17 but with the first structure 193 instead of the second structure 194. The present combination is similar to the combination described above (such as Figure 17) except in the present combination, tabs or male retainers 392 on the third side 204 of the base part 190a at the joining edge 350 and on the fourth side 206 of the base part 190a at the joining edge 350 to engage the two slots 368 in the base part 190a of the second structure 194 (Figure 19). Male tabs or retainers 394 are also provided on the joining edge 350 in the CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí lower wall structure or section 230a to couple the two slots 370 in the lower wall structure 230a of the second structure 194 (Figure 19). Optionally, the two structures 193,194 They can be joined together along adjacent seams by welding or adhesive. If welding or adhesive is used, the upper and lower seams at the distal end of the housing are joined together through retainers so that the retainers can be disengaged to opening a distal gate opening to then allow separation of the catheter connector from the housing, as discussed further below. Figure 25 is a perspective view of the first structure 193 of Figure 24 shown without the catheter assembly 108. Male tabs or retainers 392 are shown on the base portion 190a and male tabs or retainers 394 are shown on the base portion 190a. bottom wall or section 230a. Also shown are the two activation ramp sections 328x, 328y located in the side wall structure or structure section 230c, the form and function of which are similar to the two activation ramp sections 328x, 328y described above with reference to the Figure 22. As with the other activation ramp sections 328x, 328y, each of the activation ramp sections comprises a proximal ramp portion 328a, a distal ramp portion 328b, and a central ramp portion 328c located between the proximal and distal ramp parts. A male tab or retainer 398 is provided on the joining edge 350 of the end cap component 340 of the first structure 193. The tab 398 is located on the end cap component 340 in a location to mate evenly with the slot in the right frame 194, when the left and right frames are assembled to form the housing of Figure 15. The tab 398 is sized and shaped to mate with the recess 378 in the end cap component 340 of the second frame 194 In one example, the engagement between the tongue 398 and the recess 378 is a slight interference. In one example, the engagement between the male tab or retainer 398 and the recess 378 in the two end cap components 340 has a stronger engagement grip or retention than the engagement between the tabs 392 on the base portion 190a and the tabs. 394 in the lower wall structure 230a which engages the corresponding grooves 368, 370 in the second structure 194. This relative coupling force between the pairs of mating tabs and grooves ensures that when the catheter hub 130 is advanced in the distal direction within of the interior space 104 of the housing after initial placement of the catheter tube, and after advancement of a guide wire when incorporated, following contact of the catheter connector against the activation ramps, the housing will separate first at the proximal end of the housing prior to separation into the two end cap components 340. In other examples, the various pairs of tabs and slots generally open at approximately the same time upon contact by the catheter connector against the activation ramps. Figure 26 is a perspective view of the first structure 193 of Figure 25 from a different perspective. In the orientation shown, the tabs 392 on the base portion 190a are longer than the tabs 392 on the bottom wall structure 230a of the body section. The tabs CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí on the base portion 190a are also longer than the tab 398 on the end cap component 340. The different lengths of the various tabs engage or mesh with slots that They have different and corresponding depths to engage to ensure a generally narrow seam 232 (Figure 16) when the two housing structures 193, 194 are coupled to form the housing 102. In some examples, each of the left and right structures can have both a slot like a tongue to mate with the corresponding tongues and grooves rather than having an arrangement where all the grooves are located with one structure and all the tongues are located with another structure. Figure 27 is a perspective view of the first structure 193 shown from an inverted view to show the outer surface 374a of the first structure. As shown, the outer surface 374a is provided with a plurality of separate projections or ornamentations 220, similar to that shown for the second structure. In one example, the two different sets of projections 220 for the two structures may be the same and may have the same spacing. In other examples, the projections may have different shapes and / or different spaces between two adjacent projections. Refer again to Figures 15 to 17, 24 and 28 for a discussion of the ExD 100 catheter assembly being put into use. The user can use the ExD catheter assembly to puncture a targeted vein with guidance from a viewing device, such as an ultrasound monitor that uses an ultrasound probe. A rapid return of primary blood flowing into the needle hub 122 can be observed. The insertion angle of the ExD 100 catheter assembly is then lowered before further advancing the ExD 100 catheter assembly to locate the tube. catheter deep into the vein. In some examples, a guidewire dispenser having a guidewire extending through the needle lumen can be used with the ExD catheter assembly. For example, a SonoStik® guidewire dispenser having a housing can be placed in the proximal opening of the catheter hub after removing the vent plug 124 and the guidewire projecting through the lumen of the needle and advanced in one direction. manner known in the industry. The guide wire can be used to guide the catheter tube to a desired treatment location within the body. The needle and catheter tube are advanced over the guide wire and stop at or just before the nose end 184 of the housing 102 contacts the skin. If the ExD catheter assembly is used without a guidewire, then the ExD catheter assembly can be advanced without first advancing the guidewire. The healthcare professional may then place his or her thumb on the push tab 176 of the catheter hub 130 to advance the catheter hub against the one or more actuation ramps 328 on one or both of the first and second housing structures 193,194. With further reference to the schematic diagram of the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 28, when the catheter hub 130 is pushed in the distal direction until the nose end of the catheter hub pushes against the two activation ramps 328, generates a pair of component forces in each of the two structures 193, 194. This causes the two structures to separate CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí beginning at the base end of the housing. As the catheter hub continues to move in the distal direction, the two structures separate further until the tabs and the grooves in the end of the base and the body completely separate from each other. At this point with the tab 398 (Figure 26) and the cavity 378 (Figure 19) on the two end cover components 340 continue to engage, the two structures They rotate on their respective live hinges 346. The user can then use a free hand while maintaining a grip on the catheter connector to pull one of the two structures 193, 194 apart into their respective end cap components 340. The catheter connector 130 and housing 102 are then free of each other. The user can then finish preparing the catheter connector, such as connecting a drip line to the catheter connector and taping it to a patient to secure the site. puncture. Referring again to the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figures 15 to 27 and particularly to Figures 15, 17, 22 and 26, an alternative implementation of the device or assembly is contemplated. In the alternative implementation, the left and right frames, or the first and second frames 193, 194 are secured together with the tabs or male retainers 392, 394, 398 that engage the corresponding slots or female retainers 354, 378. In the In this embodiment, the engagement between the male tabs or retainers 392, 394 and the female grooves or retainers 354 in the body 188 and in the base 190 are such that they do not separate upon advancement of the catheter connector 130 in the distal direction within the interior of the housing 102. For example, the engagement between the tabs and the slots can be by interference and / or by adhesive, bonding or welding. Additionally, activation ramps 328 (Figure 28) can be omitted from the first and second structures 193, 194 so that radial forces are not generated by the catheter connector advancing to separate the two housing structures. Therefore, when the catheter hub 130 is advanced distally to further place the catheter tube into the vein, the catheter hub can reach the empty space 380 (Figure 22) at the distal end of the body section without imparting forces. radials in the two structures to separate them. Instead, the distal abutment of the catheter hub 130 against the distal gates opens the distal gate opening to then allow separation of the catheter hub 130 from the housing 102. With specific reference now to Figures 22 and 26, the tab 398 on the end cap component 340 of the first structure 193 engages the recess 378 in the second structure 194 in a loose or separable friction coupling. That is, upon being pushed distally by the advancement catheter hub 130, the male retainer or tab 398 on the first frame 193 may be released or separated from the cavity 378 on the second frame 194. In the detailed view of Figure 22, recess 378 is shown with an open groove or recess. This structure allows the tongue and recess in the two end cap components 340 of the left and right frames 193, 194 to be separated by allowing the tongue 398 to pass through the side opening of the recess without a side wall in place. of the opening proximal to the joining edge 350. Therefore, the separation in the two end components 340 can occur simply by providing an axial force when the catheter connector 130 is pushed in the distal direction against in the two cover components. end without having to generate a radial force as described with reference to Figure 28. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí Therefore, after cannulation, optionally after guide wire placement and after catheterization, as described above with the first implementation of the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figures 15 to 28, the catheter connector 130 may advance against the proximally oriented surfaces 340Z of the two end cap components 340 of the left and right frames (Figures 22 and 26). The advancing force of the catheter hub 130 forces the tab 398 to separate from the recess 378. This separation is facilitated by the open side between the two side walls 340a, 340b of the cavity in the end cap component 340 of the second structure or right structure 194 (Figure 22). That is, the tab 398 on the first or left frame 193 can simply slide through the space provided by the missing side of the cavity 378 between the two side walls 340a, 340b. Now, referring to Figures 15 and 16, as the tab 398 and the female retainer 378 on the two end components 340 are separated and the two structures are held secured by the tabs 392, 394 and the slots 354 (Figures 22 and 26) in the body parts 188a and the base parts 190a of the two structures 193, 194, the two end components 340 are forced to oscillate in the distal direction around the two live hinges 346. In an example , the space or distance between the two living hinges 346 is greater than the horizontal dimension or the transverse dimension of the catheter connector 130. Therefore, as the two end cap components 340 swing in the distal direction around of the two live hinges, a gate with a gap, called a gate opening or distal gate opening as defined by the space provided by the distal swing end components, opens to provide clearance for the catheter connector 130 pass through this. The swing-end cap components 340 may be referred to as gates that can be opened to open the distal gate opening. In practice, this allows the catheter hub 130 to be separated from the needle hub 122 and the housing 102 through the gate opening or the distal gate opening to be separated from the needle 112, the needle hub 122 , housing 102 and guidewire and guidewire, if used. The catheter hub can then be attached to a patient for fluid administration. Needle 112, needle hub 122, housing 102, and guidewire and guidewire dispenser, if used, may be disposed of per approved protocol. Therefore, it is understood that one aspect of the present invention includes an ExD catheter assembly comprising a multi-part housing having an interior space having a catheter assembly located therein; said catheter assembly comprises a catheter tube attached to a connector of the catheter and a needle attached to a hub of the needle and extending through the catheter tube with a needle tip extending distally of a distal opening of the tube catheter. Said needle and catheter tube project through an opening in a distal end of the housing. The distal end may comprise two end cap components removably attached to each other, such as by engaging a male retainer and a female retainer. The female retainer may be a recess with three side walls and with at least one open side and an open entrance to the recess. The multi-part housing may comprise a first structure attached to a second CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí structure. The two structures may have a seam between them. The two structures may be joined along a joining edge. One of the two structures may comprise a tab or a male retainer and the other structure may comprise a corresponding slot or female retainer to receive the male retainer to removably secure the two structures together. The distal end of the housing may comprise a seam. The opening at the distal end having the needle and the catheter tube projecting thereto may be formed by two cuts. The distal end of the housing may include a live hinge. Preferably, there are two live hinges at the distal end of the housing. A gate with a gap may be defined by the distance between The two live hinges. distal end of the housing. The catheter hub may exit the gate opening or the distal gate opening and be separated from the remaining components of the ExD catheter assembly, which may include a needle, a needle hub, a housing and a guide wire and a guide wire dispenser, if used. Referring now to Figure 29, a partial perspective view of an ExD catheter assembly 100 is shown comprising a housing 102 and a catheter assembly 108. The ExD catheter assembly 100 may be similar to one of the catheter assemblies. ExD described elsewhere herein, such as the assembly 100 of Figures 15 and 16. The ExD catheter assembly of the present embodiment is shown with a barb extender or barb adapter 404 attached to the catheter connector 130 and is extends orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the housing through the housing opening 196 such that a top portion of the lug adapter 404 rises above the top wall structure 230b of the housing to present a surface for being pushed or gripped by a health professional. In one example, the tab adapter 404 is provided to extend the profile of the integrally formed push tab 176 (Figure 2) of the catheter hub 130 well above the top wall structure 230b to facilitate operation of the catheter assembly. ExD. Alternatively, the push tab 176 may be formed in an extended configuration and extends above the top wall structure 230b of the housing to present itself for pushing by a healthcare professional without the separately formed tab adapter 404. Figure 30 shows a barb adapter 404 separated from a catheter hub 130 and Figure 31 shows a cross-sectional side view of the barb adapter 404. Referring to Figures 29 to 31, and continued reference to Figure 29, The lug adapter 404 may be formed from a plastic material, such as by plastic injection molding. The lug adapter 404 may comprise a body 406 having a first end 408 and a second end 410. The first end 408 may be located above, in elevation, the second end 410. In one example, the body 406 may be formed as a solid structure above the imaginary line 412 and having a tunnel or channel 414 below the imaginary line 412 with a first arched opening 420 and a second arched opening 422 in communication with each other through the channel 414. In a Alternatively, the body 406 is hollow and is formed with a wall structure having an outer surface 426 and an inner surface 428 that defines an inner space or cavity 429. The wall thickness between the outer surface 426 and an inner surface 428 have a thickness sufficient to provide structural rigidity to carry a digital load applied by a user to advance the catheter connector 130. The barb adapter 404 is sized and shaped to fit over the catheter hub 130. In one example, the barb adapter 404 is configured to sit over the catheter hub 130 and the connector body located in the channel 414. of the body 406. The first opening 420 and the second opening 422 of the barb adapter 404 are sized to fit snugly around the curved body of the catheter hub 130. Depending on how the barb adapter 404 is positioned over the catheter hub 130, such as by placement or location along the axial position of the catheter hub, the first and second openings 420, 422 of the barb adapter 404 may be the same size or different sizes to accommodate the particular contour of the catheter hub. In one example, as shown in Figure 30, the first and second openings 420, 422 may have a hemispherical, semi-oval or elliptical shape, or an arcuate shape. Preferably, the two openings 420, 422 are sized and shaped to fit snugly over the catheter connector body and have gripping force around the connector body. The two openings can have different shapes from one another and can be selected based on the size and contour of the body of the catheter hub. When mounted on the catheter hub 130, the push tab 176 (Figure 30) is configured to fit within the interior space 429 of the body 406. To secure against shifting, sliding or movement with respect to the catheter hub 130 When digital pressure is applied to the body 406, two grip bars 432 are provided at the second end 410 of the body 406, on either side of each of the two openings 420, 422. The grip bars 432 may resemble projections and may be provided with contoured surfaces to fit snugly against the hub of the catheter. Relative to the top of the two openings 420, 422, the locations of the clamping bars 432 on the body of the barb adapter 404 must be located so that when mounted on the catheter connector, the two clamping bars 432 are below the center line of the catheter hub body. The size and shape of the first and second openings 420, 422 and the locations of the two grip bars 432 are such that the tab adapter 404 fits snugly and grips the body of the catheter hub. The 404 adapter can be used by sliding the channel and two openings over the body of the catheter hub and ensuring that the push tab on the catheter hub is located inside the interior of the tab adapter. The push tab 176 of the catheter hub 130 may come into contact with the inner surface 428 on the proximal side of the body 406. Therefore, when a doctor pushes the tab adapter 404 in the distal direction, the inner surface 428 of the Tab adapter 404 pushes against the proximally facing surface of push tab 176 to advance push tab 176, and therefore catheter hub 130, in the distal direction. In one example, the interior space 429 of the tab adapter 404 is provided with a socket that receives that push tab 176 in a size-to-size fit or with a slight interference to resist separation of the cj cznn / zznz / B / Yi catheter hub body after distal advancement of the catheter hub. Referring now to Figure 32, there is shown an extended-dwell catheter assembly 100 provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. The present ExD catheter assembly 100 shares similar aspects with the catheter assembly of Figures 1 to 14 and Figures 15 to 28, and in particular a similar housing configuration 102 in which a first or left structure 193 and a second Frame or right frame 194 join together to form housing 102 and can be separated to release catheter connector 130 from catheter assembly 108 from the housing. The first and second structures 193, 194 may be joined together along a seam by corresponding tabs or male retainers and mating slots. Optionally, the first and second structures 193,194 may be joined together along the top and bottom seams via adhesive or welding. The catheter connector 130 of the catheter assembly 108 can instead be separated from the housing 102 by incorporating a gate assembly at the distal end of the housing 102 that opens to allow the catheter connector to be separated. As shown, the ExD catheter assembly 100 comprises a removable protective cap 500, which is configured to be placed over the needle to cover the needle and the tip of the needle before use. The proximal opening of the protective cap 500 may be frictionally engaged with the nose end section 184 of the housing 102. A barb adapter or barb extender 404, similar to the barb extender of Figures 29 to 31, can be placed over the catheter connector 130 and secured thereto by a fit. A needle cone 122 extends proximally from the base end 190 and out of the housing 102. A vent plug 124 is attached to the needle cone 122, which may allow air to vent, but captures any blood that may flow into it. of the needle hub and vent plug. Figure 33 is a top view of the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 32, shown without the protective cap 500. The housing 102 is shown with a nose end or nose section 184 having a tip 186 in a end of two nose parts 184a having a top seam 276 extending between them. The top seam 276 extends across the top of the nose end 184. A similar corresponding bottom seam extends across the bottom of the nose end 184. Each nose portion 184a is attached to a component of end cap 340 of each respective first or second structure 193,194, similar to that of Figures 15 and 16. Each nose portion 184a and each end cap component 340 may be referred to as a gate or swing gate 339 (Figure 36). The two gates 339 of the two end cover components 340 are part of a gate assembly 600. The two gates 339 can be opened to allow the catheter hub 130 to be separated from the housing 102 without requiring the first structure 193 and the second structure 194 are separated from each other. Figure 34 is a bottom view of the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 33, which resembles the housing of Figure 16. In the present embodiment, each of the first and second two structures 193,194 comprises a wall structure 230 that It comprises a bottom wall section, a top wall section and a side wall section. Multiple projections u cj cznn / zznz / E / Yi ornaments are provided on the outer surface of the side wall section, which may incorporate projections of round, elongated, polygonal or irregular shape. The projections may be spaced apart and provided for aesthetics and to facilitate gripping of the housing 102 on the two side walls of the housing. The two housing structures have an interior for housing the catheter assembly 108 (Figure 32) which has a catheter hub therein. In the present embodiment, a lower elongated opening is not incorporated, unlike the opening 334 of Figure 16. The lower wall 230a of both housing structures 193,194 can be solid and can be joined together along the seam 232 until the space 344 separating the two end cover components 340 from the rest of two structures. This allows the two structures to remain attached to each other while the two end cover components 340 together with the two nose portions 184a of the nose end 184 open on respective live hinges to open a distal gate opening, as further discussed below. In other embodiments, two housing structures 193, 194 are joined together up to a longitudinal space 506 (Figure 34). The longitudinal space 506 extends to and flows or merges into the front space 344 which allows the two end cover components 340 to swing to open the distal gate opening, as further discussed below. The proximal end of the longitudinal space 506 may serve as an injection point for the plastic injection gate or inlet. Optional 502 cut lines can be incorporated into the wall surface of each structure. The 502 score lines can be straight, can be curved, or both for aesthetic appeal. The score lines are understood to be slot lines formed in the wall thickness of the bottom walls 230a of the two structures 193, 194. In other examples, the score lines may be omitted. Figures 35 and 36 are top and bottom close-up views, respectively, of the distal end of the housing, showing the end cap components 340, similar to Figures 15 to 17, and the nose portions 184a of the nose end 184. Also shown are the distal space 344, the longitudinal space 506, and the seams 232 between the two upper side walls 340b and the lower side walls 340a of the two end cap components 340. The two end cap components 340 are attached to the two front end walls 347 via two live hinges 346. Each of the two end cap components 340 is attached to a nose portion 184a, the combination of which can be 15 to 27, the two gates 339 of the gate assembly 600 can be oscillated open when pushed in a distal direction by the distal movement of the catheter hub 130 to open a distal gate opening. Figure 37 is a side view of the first frame or left frame 193 of the cover shown with the needle and catheter tube and without the second frame or right frame 194. Figure 38 is a side view of the second frame 194 or right of the housing shown with the needle and catheter tube and without the first structure 193 or left. The two views of Figures 37 and 38 will now be discussed to explain the mechanical coupling between the two at the distal end and how it is CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí separate when they are pushed in a distal direction by a catheter connector to open the distal gate opening. As shown, each of the two nose parts 184a represents a cylinder partial hollow that when combined forms a generally cylindrical cylinder of the nose section or nose end 184 of the housing 102. A front base wall 510 is provided proximally and within the boundary defined by the hollow partial cylinder of each nose portion 184a. Each front base wall 510 has a cutout 512 that is sized and shaped to accommodate part of the needle 112 and catheter tube 110. When the first and second structures 193, 194 are joined, the two cutouts 512 of the two walls The front base plates 510 form a perimeter that defines an opening sized and shaped to receive the circumference of the combination catheter tube with the needle of the catheter assembly located within the housing 102. In one example, the perimeter of the two cuts 512 may be called guide opening that guides the combination needle and catheter tube as the combination advances in the distal direction during cannulation and vascular access. The two base walls 510 may have variable thicknesses, measured along the length of the first structure and / or second structure. A male retainer may project from a side portion of the base wall 510 that is thicker. In other examples, the base wall 510 may have a uniform thickness. A male retainer 520, which may instead be a knuckle or bolt having an elongated body with a rounded end, is provided on each of the first and second structures 193, 194. As shown in Figure 37, the male retainer 520 520 of the first structure 1 93 is located above, in elevation, the needle 112 and / or the catheter tube 110 and extends generally orthogonal to the axis defined by the needle. The male retainer 520 of the second structure 194, as shown in Figure 38, lies below, in elevation, the needle 112 and extends generally orthogonal to the axis defined by the needle. The arrangement of the two male retainers 520 in the two structures 193, 194 can be reversed. In one example, the two male retainers project radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the needle by a sufficient amount so that the tip of each male retainer extends beyond the half-diameter mark on the needle and preferably beyond an edge of the needle on the opposite side from which the male retainer extends. In other examples, the male retainers 520 may extend a shorter length or distance from the respective side from which the male retainers extend. The length of the male retainers 520 can be selected to vary the amount of engagement with the corresponding receiving slots, as discussed further below. A receiving slot 524 is provided with the first structure 193 below the male retainer 520. Similarly, a receiving slot 524 is provided with the second structure 194 above the male retainer 520. Again, the arrangement can be reversed. Each receiving slot 524 comprises wall structures configured to frictionally engage a corresponding male retainer 520 located on the opposite structure. Therefore, the receiving groove 524 in the first structure is configured to frictionally engage the male retainer in the second structure and the receiving groove 524 in the second structure is configured to frictionally engage the male retainer in cj cznn / zznz / E / Yii the first structure. In one example, the receiving slot has a first wall surface 524a and a second wall surface 524b configured to frictionally engage two surface sections of a male retainer to engage therewith. In one example, the first wall surface 524a and the second wall surface 524b are arranged generally orthogonal to each other. Preferably, each receiving slot 524 does not have a wall surface opposite the second wall surface 524b, which then provides a clearance, or missing wall, for the male retainer 520 to separate from the receiving slot 524 when the Catheter connector body 130, such as the nose end of the catheter connector, abuts and pushes against the two base walls 510 in the distal direction. When pushed in this way, the two gates 339 of the gate assembly 600 rotate about the two live hinges 346 (Figure 36) to open the distal gate opening and then allow the catheter hub 130 to separate from the housing 102, as shown. discussed above. In one embodiment, each receiving slot 524 further includes a wall surface opposite the respective first wall surface 524 so that each receiving slot 524 has a three-sided wall structure. Each receiving slot 524 and the stiffness of the end cap component 340 can be sized to hold the corresponding male retainer 520 in a slight interference fit. The user can use the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 32 to puncture a targeted vein with guidance of a display device, such as an ultrasound monitor using an ultrasound probe, after removing the protective cap 500. It can be seen a rapid return of primary blood flowing into the needle hub 122. Next, the insertion angle of the ExD catheter assembly 100 is lowered before further advancing the ExD catheter assembly 100 to position the catheter tube deeply in the vein In some examples, a guidewire dispenser having a guidewire extending through the lumen of the needle may be used with the ExD catheter assembly. For example, a SonoStik® guidewire dispenser having a housing can be placed in the proximal opening of the catheter hub after removing the vent plug 124 and the guidewire projecting through the lumen of the needle and advanced in one direction. manner known in the industry. The guide wire can be used to guide the catheter tube to a desired treatment location within the body. The needle 112 and catheter tube 110 (Figure 33) are advanced over the guide wire and stop at or just before the nose end 184 of the housing 102 contacts the skin. If the ExD catheter assembly is used without a guidewire, then the ExD catheter assembly can be advanced without first advancing the guidewire. The healthcare professional can then place his or her thumb on the barb adapter 404 that is coupled to the catheter hub 130 to advance the catheter hub 130 against the gate assembly 600. With further reference to the components shown in Figures 37 and 38 of the ExD catheter assembly 100 of Figure 32, when the catheter connector 130 is pushed in the distal direction so that the nose end of the catheter connector 130 pushes against the two gates 339 of the two end components 340, the distally directed force is transferred to the gate assembly 600 CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí and overcomes or exceeds the interference and / or friction forces provided by the engagement between the two male retainers 520, or knuckles or bolts, and the two receiving slots 524. A As the catheter hub continues to move in the distal direction, the two gates 339 swing in the distal direction around the live hinges 346 (Figure 36). The user can continue to move the catheter hub 130 in the distal direction while applying a force directed proximally to or while applying a constant holding force to housing 102 to move needle hub 130 completely through the gate opening provided by the two rotated gates 339. Catheter hub 130 and housing 102 are then free The user can then finish preparing the catheter connector 130, such as connecting a drip line to the catheter connector and taping it to a patient to secure the puncture site, and optionally removing the barb adapter 404. of the catheter connector 130. Referring now to Figure 39, a tab adapter 404 is shown in accordance with further aspects of the invention, which is similar to the tab adapter 404 of Figures 29 to 31. The tab adapter 404 of the present embodiment can be formed from a plastic material, such as by plastic injection molding. The lug adapter 404 may comprise a body 406 having a first end 408 and a second end 410. The first end 408 may be located above, in elevation, the second end 410. In one example, the body 406 may be formed as a solid structure with a slot for housing a push tab extending from the catheter connector and with a hollow tunnel for mounting on the body of the catheter connector, as further discussed below. The body 406 may have an outer surface 426 and an inner surface 428 (Figure 42), a first opening or distal opening 420 and a second opening 422 (Figure 41) on the side of the body opposite the first opening. A channel 414 is provided between the two openings 420, 422. The wall thickness between the outer surface 426 and the inner surface 428 is of sufficient thickness to provide structural rigidity to carry a digital load applied by a user to advance the connector of the catheter 130. The body 406 has a distally oriented outer surface 540 comprising one or more projections or surface elements 542 for aesthetic appeal. The distally oriented outer surface may be curved or arched. Surface projections or features may optionally be omitted. In other examples, the projections may incorporate other shapes, such as dimples, round bumps, shaped projections, random projections, etc. The distally oriented outer surface 540 is located between two side surfaces 546. In one example, each of the two side surfaces 546 has a flat or flat wall without variable surface features. In one embodiment, each side surface 546 has a first surface portion 546a, a conical side surface portion 546b, and a second surface portion 546c. Like the first surface portion, the second surface portion 546c has a flat or flat wall. The two second surface portions 546c on the two side surfaces 546 define a width that is greater than the width defined by the first two surface portions 546a. Therefore, the width at the first end 408 of the CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí lug adapter 404 is wider than the width at the second end 410 of the lug adapter. Figure 40 is a front view of the tongue adapter 404, looking at the first opening or distal opening 420 and the distally facing outer surface 540. As shown, the distal opening 420 may have a perimeter 550 defined by multiple sections or segments of edge. The shape of the perimeter 550 may vary depending on the shape of the catheter hub 130 that the barb adapter is configured to mount. For example, the shape of the perimeter 550 may have only four side edge sections or may be semicircular or partially circular. Figure 41 is a rear view of the tongue adapter 404, looking at the proximally oriented outer wall surface 560. In one example, the proximally oriented surface 560 has a first surface section 560a and a second surface section 560b. The first surface section 560a may be generally planar, but is inclined from the planar surface of the second surface section 560b at an inflection line or transition line 562. The first surface section 560a may incorporate one or more elements or projections of surface 542. As shown, the proximal or second opening 422 may have a perimeter 550 defined by a semicircular or partial circular edge. The shape of the perimeter 550 may vary depending on the shape of the catheter connector 130 that the barb adapter is configured to mount. For example, the shape of the perimeter 550 may be defined by a plurality of edge segments or sections and may vary depending on the shape of the catheter hub 130 to which the lug adapter is configured to mount. The first and second openings 420, 422 should extend more than half or the midline of the catheter hub body to ensure grip over half the diameter of the catheter hub body. Figure 42 is a bottom view of the tongue adapter 404, showing the interior surface 428 and the interior cavity 564 defined by the interior surface 428. Multiple projections 566 may be incorporated into the interior cavity to provide rigidity. Figure 43 is a front perspective view of the barb adapter 404 mounted on the catheter connector 130 of the catheter assembly 108, also shown with a needle connector 122, a vent plug 123 and a catheter tube 110 and a needle 112 extending outward from the distal end of the catheter connector. As shown, the catheter connector 130 has a nose section 570 at a distal end and a proximal body section 572. The nose section 570 has a generally square shape with rounded corners connecting the four sides. In other examples, the nose section 570 may have other cross-sectional shapes, generally including cylindrical, oval, elliptical, polygonal, etc. The proximal body section 572 is generally round and may be relatively larger in circumference or outer contour than the nose section 570. Therefore, a stepped or stepped section 574 may be provided between the nose section 270 and the nose section. proximal body 572. The openings in the barb adapter can be sized and formed accordingly to fit the contour of the catheter hub body. CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí In the present embodiment, the tab adapter 404 is sized and shaped for mounting over the catheter hub 130. In one example, the tab adapter 404 is configured to sit over the catheter hub 130 and the connector body. located in the channel 414 of the body 406. The first opening 420 and the second opening 422 of the barb adapter 404 are sized to fit snugly around the curved body of the catheter connector 130. Depending on how the barb adapter 404 is positioned on the catheter connector 130, such as by placement or location along the axial position of the catheter connector, the first and second openings 420, 422 of the barb adapter 404 may have the same size or different sizes to fit the particular contour of the catheter connector. In one example, as shown in Figures 40 and 41, the first opening 420 may have a shape that fits snugly around the generally square cross section of the nose section 570 and the second opening 422 may have a hemispherical shape, semi-oval or elliptical, or an arched shape to fit around the proximal body section 572. Preferably, the two openings 420, 422 are sized and shaped to fit snugly over the body of the catheter connector and have a gripping force around the body of the connector. When mounted on the catheter hub 130, the push tab 176 of the catheter hub is configured to fit within the interior space 429 of the body 406. The push tab (176) of the catheter connector (130) can come into contact with the inner surface (428) on the proximal side of the body (406) or may project into a female retainer, cavity or socket within the interior to increase the grip between the barb adapter and the catheter connector. Therefore, when a healthcare professional pushes the tab adapter 404 in the distal direction, the interior surface 428 of the tab adapter 404, or a recess or female retainer within the adapter, pushes against the proximally facing surface of the tab. pusher 176 to advance the pusher tab 176, and therefore the catheter connector 130, in the distal direction. In other examples, the grip provided by the openings 420, 422 against the body of the catheter hub may also transfer force directed distally to the catheter hub to advance the catheter hub when the barb adapter is pushed. Referring now to Figure 44, there is shown an extended-dwell catheter assembly 100 provided in accordance with additional aspects of the present invention. The present ExD catheter assembly 100 shares similar aspects with the catheter assembly of Figures 1 to 14, Figures 15 to 28 and Figures 32 to 43. As shown, the present ExD catheter assembly 100 comprises a housing 102 with a first left frame or frame 193 and a second right frame or frame 194 joined to form the housing 102. The assembly further comprises a catheter assembly 108, which may be similar to other catheter assemblies described herein. The catheter assembly 108 is shown located at least partially within the housing 102. The catheter assembly comprises a catheter hub, a needle hub 122, and a protective cap 500 covering a needle with a needle tip. The first and second structures can be separated to release the catheter connector from the catheter assembly 108 from the housing. The first and second structures 193, 194 can be CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí joined together along a seam using corresponding tabs or male retainers and coupling grooves, as described above, and by which the couplings can be separated. Optionally, The first and second structures 193, 194 may be joined together along the top and bottom seams through adhesive or welding, in addition to the tabs and retainers or as an alternative. When the two housing structures 193, 194 do not are separated, the housing 102 may be provided with a gate assembly to allow separation of the catheter connector from the housing 102 after cannulation and vascular access, as further discussed below. However, the cover still has a seam. upper and a lower seam to separate the housing into a left housing structure and a right housing structure, as opposed to a horizontal structure that separates the housing into an upper structure and a lower structure. Like the embodiment of Figures 32 to 43, a barb adapter or barb extender 404 can be placed over the catheter connector 130 and secured thereto by a fit. The needle cone 122 is shown extending proximally from the base end 190 having a vent plug attached thereto (Figure 32). When the ExD catheter assembly 100 is used, the protective cap 500 is removed first to expose the needle. Referring now to Figure 45A to 45C, top perspective views and a bottom view of a lug adapter 404 are shown in accordance with additional aspects of the invention. The present lug adapter 404 shares many similarities with the lug adapter 404 of Figures 39 to 43 with some differences. The tab adapter 404 of the present embodiment may be formed from a plastic material, such as by plastic injection molding. The lug adapter 404 may comprise a body 406 having a first end 408 and a second end 410. The first end 408 may be located above, in elevation, the second end 410. In one example, the body 406 may be formed as a solid structure with a slot for housing a push tab extending from the catheter connector and with a hollow tunnel for mounting on the body of the catheter connector, as further discussed below. The adapter body 406 may have an outer surface 426 and an inner surface 428 (Figure 45C), a first opening or distal opening 420 and a second opening 422 (Figure 45C) at the end of the body opposite the first opening 420. provides a channel 414 between the two openings 420, 422. The wall thickness between the outer surface 426 and the inner surface 428 is of sufficient thickness to provide structural rigidity to carry a digital load applied by a user to advance the catheter hub. 130. The body 406 has a distally oriented outer surface 540 comprising one or more projections or surface elements 542 for aesthetic appeal. The distally facing outer surface 540 may be arcuate or curved. The projections or surface elements 542 may optionally be omitted. In other examples, the projections may incorporate other shapes, such as dimples, round bumps, shaped projections, random projections, etc. The distally oriented outer surface 540 is located between two lateral surfaces 546. In one example, each CIV7.f\(\r7.7t\7.rñlYVí of the two side surfaces 546 may have a flat or flat wall without variable surface characteristics. As shown, a groove or concave groove 580 is located between a first part of surface 546a and a second surface portion 546c on each of the two side surfaces 546 of the lug adapter 404. The two second surface portions 546c of the two side surfaces may be generally planar and parallel to each other, thus defining an outer dimension generally constant at least along portions of the two side surfaces. The first two surface portions 546a may also be generally parallel to each other. As shown, however, the first two surface portions 546a of the two side surfaces 546 taper inwardly in the direction from the second end 410 toward the first end 408. A projection 582 may be incorporated into at least one of the two side surfaces 546 of the lug adapter 404 and extend radially from the longitudinal axis of the lug adapter 404. The projection 582 may include ramped surfaces 582a and a planar end surface 582b that are intersect with ramped surfaces. In other examples, the projection may be formed from straight sides and a flat end surface of a hemispherical dome, or a non-spherical dome. In use, the projection 582 can be arranged to abut or contact the gate assembly 600 (Figure 46) at the distal end of the housing to open the gate wider and allow separation between the housing and the catheter hub. , as discussed above with reference to Figures 32 to 43 and are further examined below. In one example, a projection 582 is provided on each of the two side surfaces 546 of the lug adapter 404 so that the gate assembly can abut both projections 582. The distal opening 420 of the adapter may have a perimeter 550 defined by multiple edge sections or segments. The shape of the perimeter 550 may vary depending on the shape of the catheter hub 130 that the barb adapter 404 is configured to mount or upon which to mount. For example, the shape of the perimeter 550 may have on...

Claims

1. A long-stay catheter assembly (100), comprising: a housing (102) comprising a first structure (193) attached to a second structure (194) and having an interior space (104), said housing (102) having a distal opening (342) and a proximal opening (101); a catheter assembly (108) located in the inner space (104) of the housing (102), wherein said catheter assembly (108) comprises a catheter tube (110) attached to a catheter connector (130) and a needle (112) attached to a needle cone (122), wherein the needle (112) and the catheter tube (110) project the distal opening (342) of the housing (102) and the needle cone (122) projects the proximal opening (101) of the housing (102), and wherein the catheter connector (130) can be slid within the inner space (104) of the housing (102) from a proximal position to a distal position within the inner space (104);an upper seam (276) located between the first structure (193) and the second structure (194) along a first side of the housing (102) and a lower seam (232) located between the first structure (193) and the second structure (194) along a second side of the housing, the upper seam (276) being located above, in elevation, the lower seam (232); and wherein the first structure (193) and the second structure (194) can be separated from each other along the upper seam (276) and the lower seam (232).

2. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein the catheter cone (130) comprises an inner cavity (148) and wherein a needle shield (140) comprising a proximal wall and two arms is located in the inner cavity (148) of the catheter cone (130).

3. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first structure (193) or the second structure (194) comprises multiple tabs (250, 394) and the other first structure (193) or second structure (194) comprises multiple receiving slots (288, 354) that engage the multiple tabs (250, 394).

4. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the housing (102) comprises a base end (190) comprising multiple side walls (200, 202, 204, 206).

5. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 4, further comprising a first lever (214) and a second lever (216), wherein the first and second levers (214, 216) project from different surfaces of the base end (190) of the housing (102).

6. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 5, wherein the first lever (214) is attached to a three-sided cut (254) in the second structure (194).

7. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 6, wherein the second lever (216) comprises a proximally oriented curved surface (216a). cj cznn / zznz / E / Yii 117 8. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the housing (102) comprises a body opening (196) and wherein a push tab (176) in the catheter cone (130) is located in the body opening (196).

9. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 5, wherein the first lever (214) and the second lever (216) move relative to each other to separate the first structure (193) and the second structure (194).

10. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first structure (193) comprises a gate (340, 606a) having a live hinge (346, 618) and the second structure (194) comprises a gate (340, 606b) having a live hinge (346, 618).

11. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 10, wherein a tab (398) engages in a recess (378) to engage the two end-cover components (340).

12. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first structure (193) has an activation structure (328) and the second structure (194) has an activation structure (328), and wherein a space defined by the two activation structures (328, 328) is dimensioned and shaped to be pushed by the catheter connector (130) to separate the first structure (193) from the second structure (194).

13. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to any preceding claim, further comprising a tongue adapter (404) fitted around the catheter connector (130).

14. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to any preceding claim, further comprising a guide wire extending through the needle (112).

15. A method for preparing a long-stay catheter assembly (100), comprising: forming a housing (102), the housing (102) comprising a first structure (193) joined to a second structure (194) and having an interior space (104), said housing (102) having a distal opening (342) and a proximal opening (101), an upper seam (276) located between the first structure (193) and the second structure (194) along a first side of the housing (102) and a lower seam (232) located between the first structure (193) and the second structure (194) along a second side of the housing, the upper seam (276) being located above, in elevation, the lower seam (232);placing a catheter assembly (108) in the inner space (104) of the housing (102), wherein said catheter assembly (108) comprises a catheter tube (110) attached to a catheter connector (130) and a needle (112) attached to a needle cone (122), wherein the needle (112) and the catheter tube (110) project the distal opening (342) of the housing (102) and the needle cone (122) projects the proximal opening (102) of the housing (102), and wherein the catheter connector (130) can be slid within the inner space (104) of the housing (102) from a proximal position to a distal position within the inner space (104); and wherein the first structure (193) and the second structure (194) can be separated from each other along of the upper seam (276) and the lower seam (232).; 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the first structure (193) and the second structure (194) can be separated by moving the first structure (193) in a first direction and the second structure (194) in a second direction.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the first structure (193) and the second structure (194) can be separated by advancing the catheter connector (130) in a distal direction to separate two activation structures (328) located within the inner space (104) of the housing (102).

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein the catheter connector (130) can be separated from the housing (102) by displacing two end cover components (340) around two live hinges (346).

19. A long-stay catheter assembly (100), comprising: a housing (102) comprising a first structure (193) attached to a second structure (194) and having an interior space (104), said housing (102) having a distal opening (342) and a proximal opening (101); a catheter assembly (108) located in the inner space (104) of the housing (102), wherein said catheter assembly (108) comprises a catheter tube (110) attached to a catheter connector (130) and a needle (112) attached to a needle cone (122), wherein the needle (112) and the catheter tube (110) project the distal opening (342) of the housing (102) and the needle cone (122) projects the proximal opening (101) of the housing (102), and wherein the catheter connector (130) can be slid within the inner space (104) of the housing (102) from a proximal position to a distal position within the inner space (104);a gate assembly (600) attached to the housing (102), the gate assembly comprising a first gate (606a) attached to a live hinge (618) and a second gate (606b) attached to a live hinge (618); wherein the two gates (606a, 606b) are rotatable about the two live hinges (618) to open the two gates (606a, 606b) to separate the catheter assembly (108) from the housing (102).

20. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 19, further comprising a fastening strip (610) connecting the two gates (606a, 606b) to each other.

21. The long-stay catheter assembly (100) according to claim 20, wherein the gate assembly (600) comprises a key (633) comprising a flange (632) for coupling to a groove (644) in the housing (102).

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