Catheter hub equipped with punctal plug, punctal plug insertion device including same, tube structure for manufacturing punctal plug, and tube structure tension device

Abstract

The punctal plug insertion device of the present invention comprises: a catheter hub having a channel formed to contain a punctal plug; and a main body coupled to the catheter hub and including an external force application unit for applying an external force to the punctal plug contained in the catheter hub.

Description

A catheter hub equipped with a puncture plug, a puncture plug insertion device including the same, a tube structure for manufacturing a puncture plug, and a tube structure tensioning device

[0001] The present invention relates to a catheter hub equipped with a puncture plug capable of rapidly inserting the puncture plug into a puncture duct while minimizing damage to the puncture spot or puncture duct, a puncture plug insertion device including the same, a tube structure for manufacturing a puncture plug, and a tube structure tensioning device.

[0002] Modern people are susceptible to various eye diseases due to factors such as prolonged use of digital devices.

[0003] Dry Eye Syndrome refers to a chronic condition in which the surface of the eye becomes dry and irritated due to a lack of tears or poor quality.

[0004] Known causes of dry eye syndrome include insufficient tear production due to aging or side effects of certain medications, and increased tear evaporation caused by prolonged use of digital devices.

[0005] To treat dry eye syndrome, there are non-surgical methods such as lifestyle modifications and the use of artificial tear drops, as well as surgical methods such as meibomian gland treatment and the insertion of punctal plugs.

[0006] Double punctal plug insertion is a method used to regulate the amount of tears drained through the punctum by inserting a plug-shaped structure into the punctum, which is the beginning of the tear drainage pathway, as a small component located at the inner end of the eyelid.

[0007] Furthermore, medication is loaded into punctal plugs and is being used in various ways as a treatment method for eye-related diseases such as keratitis.

[0008] However, as can be seen in Fig. 1, there is a problem in that the process of inserting a punctal plug into the punctum through the punctum using forceps, etc., is not only difficult, but damage to the punctum or eyeball may also occur depending on the operator's skill level.

[0009] Furthermore, recently, punctal plugs that increase in diameter upon contact with tears are being used as a method to secure them within the duct. However, while this offers the advantage of stable fixation within the duct, there is also a problem in that the diameter expands rapidly upon contact with tears during the procedure; consequently, rushing the procedure to minimize contact with tears poses a significant risk of damage to the punctum or duct.

[0010] Furthermore, in the case of leak plugs, depending on the material, there are collagen plugs, silicone plugs, thermoplastic plugs, etc., but there is a problem that it is difficult to manufacture them in a size that can be inserted into small leaks of about 0.2 to 0.5 mm.

[0011] Therefore, it is necessary to develop a method for producing this.

[0012] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems by providing a catheter hub equipped with a puncture plug that enables rapid and safe insertion of the puncture plug while lowering the difficulty of the procedure, and a puncture plug insertion device including the same.

[0013] The invention provides a tube structure for manufacturing a tear plug and a tube structure tensioning device that can easily manufacture a tear plug that expands and is fixed to the tear plug when in contact with tears using a hydrogel material.

[0014] The problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those described above, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0015] The present invention for solving the above-mentioned problem includes a catheter hub in which a fluid path is formed to receive a leak plug, and a main body including an external force applying part coupled to the catheter hub and applying an external force to the leak plug received in the catheter hub.

[0016] A catheter hub of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problem comprises a catheter tube in which a catheter body and a fistula plug are received, and at least a portion of which is exposed to the front of the catheter body.

[0017] A tube structure for manufacturing a leak plug according to the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problem comprises a tube having a space formed for accommodating a material forming a leak plug and having input ports formed at both ends for inserting the material, and a fixing pin provided at each input port to shield the input ports.

[0018] The tensioning device for a tube structure for manufacturing a leak plug according to the present invention, for solving the above-mentioned problem, comprises a base member having a first fixing module formed thereon to which one end of the tube structure is fixed, a moving member formed thereon to which the other end of the tube structure for manufacturing a leak plug is fixed and which is movably formed, and a tensioning part for moving the moving member.

[0019] A catheter hub equipped with a puncture plug according to one embodiment of the present invention and a puncture plug insertion device including the same have a catheter hub detachably coupled to a main body, so that procedures can be performed on various patients using a single main body by replacing the catheter hub.

[0020] In addition, by providing a catheter tube inserted into the lacrimal duct through the lacrimal punctum, not only is a rapid and stable procedure possible, but in the case of a lacrimal punctum plug whose diameter expands upon contact with tears, there is the advantage of being able to perform the procedure while minimizing contact with tears.

[0021] Furthermore, the tube structure and tensioning device for making a tear plug according to one embodiment of the present invention have the advantage that a tear plug made of hydrogel material can be easily manufactured to be deformed by tears when inserted.

[0022] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0023] Fig. 1 is a photograph illustrating the process of inserting a leak plug through a conventional leak point;

[0024] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a leak point plug insertion device of the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a leak point plug insertion device of the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a leak plug insertion device of the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the back surface of the catheter hub of the leak plug insertion device of the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a leak plug insertion device of a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a leak plug insertion device of the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a leak plug insertion device of a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the back surface of a catheter hub of a leak plug insertion device of the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a catheter tube of a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing a leak point and a leak duct to explain the process of inserting a leak point plug of an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] FIGS. 12 to 14 are drawings for explaining the process of inserting a leak point plug through a leak point using a leak point plug insertion device of the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a tube structure of a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of a tube structure of the third embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a fixing pin of a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a tube structure of the third embodiment of the present invention before tensioning;

[0039] FIG. 19 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a tube structure after tensioning according to the third embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] FIGS. 20 to 22 are drawings showing fixing pins of tube structures of the fourth to sixth embodiments of the present invention;

[0041] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a tube structure tensioning device for manufacturing a leak plug according to the 7th embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of the fixing part of the tube structure tensioning device for making a leak plug of the 7th embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] FIG. 25 is a drawing showing the state in which a tube structure is tensioned using a tube structure tensioning device for manufacturing a leak plug of the 7th embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a tube structure fixing jig of the eighth embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of a tube structure fixing jig of the 8th embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] FIG. 28 is a drawing showing the state in which a tube structure of the third embodiment of the present invention is coupled to a tube structure tensioning device;

[0047] FIG. 29 is a drawing showing the state in which a tube structure is tensioned through a tensioning device of a tube structure of the 7th embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] FIG. 30 is a drawing showing a tube structure that has been tensioned using a tube structure fixing jig of the eighth embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] FIG. 31 is a drawing showing a cross- section of a tube structure fixing jig of the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a tube structure fixing jig of the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the concept of the present invention is not limited to the presented embodiments. Those skilled in the art who understand the concept of the present invention may easily propose other inventions that are inferior or other embodiments included within the scope of the concept of the present invention by adding, changing, or deleting other components within the same scope of the concept, and such are also to be considered to be included within the scope of the concept of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a leak plug insertion device of the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a leak plug insertion device of the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a leak plug insertion device of the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the back of a catheter hub of a leak plug insertion device of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the leak plug insertion device (1000) of the present embodiment includes a catheter hub (1100) and a main body (1200).

[0054] The catheter hub (1100) can be detachably coupled to the main body (1200). The catheter hub (1100) and the main body (1200) can be detachably coupled in various known ways, and in this embodiment, a screw thread may be formed on the outer side of the catheter hub (1100), and a screw groove may be formed on the corresponding inner diameter of the main body.

[0055] That is, the operator can perform the procedure on patients by changing only the catheter hub (1100) while equipped with the main body (1200). In other words, only the catheter hub (1100) can be supplied in individual packaging.

[0056] Meanwhile, to prevent the leak plug (P) contained inside from being exposed to the outside during production and distribution, a separate sealing part (1101) for sealing may be provided on the rear surface of the open catheter hub (1100). The sealing part (1101) may be formed in various known forms, and in this embodiment, a handle part (1101a) may be provided to facilitate easy separation by the operator.

[0057] Accordingly, the operator may be equipped with a main body (1200) and supplied with multiple individually packaged catheter hubs (1100) to perform procedures on multiple patients. Specifically, the catheter hub (1100) is separated from the packaging, the sealing part (1101) of the catheter hub (1100) is separated, and then the procedure is performed by connecting it to the main body (1200). Furthermore, although not illustrated, a sealing part may also be provided at the open front of the catheter hub (1100).

[0058] A passage (1100a) is formed inside the catheter hub (1100) to accommodate a fistula plug (P). It is preferable that the passage (1100a) has a diameter corresponding to the fistula plug (P) and is formed with a length capable of accommodating one or more fistula plugs (P).

[0059] The main body (1200) includes an external force application part (1220) to which the catheter hub (1100) is detachably coupled and which applies an external force to a discharge plug (P) received in the catheter hub (1100).

[0060] Specifically, the main body (1200) of the present embodiment includes a main body (1210) and an external force application part (1220).

[0061] A catheter hub (1100) is detachably coupled to the front of the main body (1210), and a screw groove corresponding to the screw threads of the catheter hub (1100) described above is formed.

[0062] An external force application part (1220) is coupled to the main body (1210) so as to be movable in the forward and backward directions. In this embodiment, one end of the main body (1210) is formed as an opening, and an external force application part (1220) is inserted inside to form a space movable in the forward and backward directions.

[0063] That is, the body (1210) and the external force application part (1220) of the present embodiment have a structure similar to a conventional syringe for injecting medicine.

[0064] The external force application unit (1220) is coupled to the main body (1210) so as to be movable in the forward and backward directions, and applies an external force to the puncture plug (P) as it moves. Specifically, in this embodiment, the external force application unit (1220) further includes a pusher (1221) having a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the flow path (1100a) of the catheter hub (1100). Accordingly, as the external force application unit (1220) moves forward, the pusher (1221) pushes the puncture plug (P) forward, and as a result, the puncture plug (P) is discharged to the front of the catheter hub (1100) and inserted into the puncture tube (B) through the user's puncture point (A).

[0065] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a leak plug insertion device of a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a leak plug insertion device of a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a leak plug insertion device of a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the back side of a catheter hub of a leak plug insertion device of a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a catheter tube of a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] With reference to FIGS. 6 to 10, a leak plug insertion device of the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the overall configuration of the leak plug insertion device of this embodiment is identical to the first embodiment described above, the following description will focus on the differences.

[0067] The leak plug insertion device of the present embodiment includes a catheter hub (2100) and a main body (1200).

[0068] The catheter hub (2100) of the present embodiment includes a catheter body (2110) and a catheter tube (2120). The overall shape of the catheter body (2110) is similar to the catheter hub (1100) of the first embodiment.

[0069] A portion of the catheter tube (2120) is located inside the catheter body (2110), and at least a portion is exposed to the front of the catheter body (2110). A fistula plug (P) is received inside the catheter tube (2120). The catheter tube (2120) may be made of a length capable of receiving multiple fistula plugs (P). Additionally, as described below, the procedure is performed with at least a portion of the catheter tube (2120) inserted into the fistula (A), and the length of the catheter tube (2120) exposed to the front of the catheter hub (2100) may be variable depending on the characteristics of the subject of the procedure (human, animal, etc.).

[0070] The catheter tube (2120) may be made of an elastic material, for example, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), silicone rubber, PVC, PE, PTFE, PEBA, FEP, ETFE, and various other polymer materials. Therefore, when the catheter tube (2120) enters the puncture site (A), the operator's freedom of movement during the procedure may be improved, while minimizing damage to the patient's puncture site.

[0071] Meanwhile, some recent punctal plugs (P) adopt a method in which their diameter increases as they come into contact with tears and they become fixed in the lacrimal duct (B). In this case, there was a problem in that during the procedure, as the punctal plug (P) enters the lacrimal duct (B) through the punctum (A), it comes into contact with tears and its diameter expands, and the procedure must be performed quickly to insert it before the diameter expands, or a wound may occur during the process of performing the procedure quickly, which could lead to inflammation.

[0072] However, in this embodiment, as the procedure is performed with at least a portion of the catheter tube (2120) positioned in the tear duct (B) through the tear spot (A), it may be possible to prevent the tear spot plug from rapidly expanding by coming into contact with tears during the process of the tear spot plug being positioned in the tear duct.

[0073] The shear portion of the outer diameter of the catheter tube (2120) may be formed to become smaller as it extends forward (d3 < d4). Thus, it may be easier to enter the fistula during the procedure.

[0074] A portion of the inner diameter of the catheter tube (2120) may be formed to become smaller towards the front (d1 < d2). Thus, it may be possible to prevent the leak plug (P) contained within the catheter tube (2120) from being discharged forward during the manufacturing and shipping process. Therefore, unlike the first embodiment, the sealing portion (2021) is provided only on the open rear side of the catheter hub (2110) and does not need to be provided on the front side of the catheter tube (2120).

[0075] Additionally, at least a portion of the inner diameter of the catheter tube (2120) may be formed to be smaller than the diameter (d5) of the discharge plug (P). Accordingly, when the discharge plug (P) is received inside the catheter tube (2120) as described above, the discharge plug (P) is prevented from being arbitrarily discharged forward of the catheter tube (2120). Meanwhile, as the catheter tube (2120) has elasticity, even if at least a portion of the inner diameter of the catheter tube (2120) is formed to be smaller than the diameter of the discharge plug (P), it will be possible to easily discharge it to the outside of the catheter tube (2120) by the pusher (1221).

[0076] The overall shape of the main body (1200) of this embodiment is similar to the embodiment described above, so further description is omitted. However, unlike the embodiment above, the pusher (1221) in this embodiment is preferably to have a diameter corresponding to the inner diameter of the catheter tube (2120) as it enters the interior of the catheter tube (2120).

[0077] In this embodiment as well, the catheter hub (2100) may be detachably coupled to the main body (1200).

[0078] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a leak point and a leak duct to explain the process of inserting a leak point plug of one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 12 to 14 are diagrams to explain the process of inserting a leak point plug through a leak point using a leak point plug insertion device of a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14, the process of performing a puncture plug procedure using the puncture plug insertion device of the second embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0080] As described above, the operator opens the individually packaged catheter hub (2100) while holding the main body (1200). Then, using the handle portion (2101a) of the sealing portion (2101) attached to the rear of the catheter hub, the operator separates it from the catheter body (2110).

[0081] Then, the catheter hub (2100) is connected to the front of the main body (1200). During the connection process, at least a portion of the front end of the pusher (1221) of the external force application part (1220) enters the interior of the catheter tube (2120).

[0082] The operator positions at least a portion of the catheter tube (2120) inside the tear duct (B) through the tear spot (A) (see FIG. 12). As can be seen in FIG. 12, contact between the tear spot plug (P) and the tear spot plug (P) can be minimized by positioning the tear spot plug (P) inside the catheter tube (2120) during this process.

[0083] The operator applies external force through the external force application unit (1220), and the pusher (1221) pushes the fistula plug (P) inside the catheter tube (2120) into the fistula duct (B) (see FIG. 13).

[0084] With the fistula plug (P) positioned inside the fistula duct (B), the operator finishes the procedure by pulling the catheter tube (2120) out of the fistula (see FIG. 14).

[0085] Meanwhile, in this process, as the catheter tube (2120) is made of an elastic material, the operator's freedom of operation can be improved while minimizing damage to the tear spot or tear duct.

[0086] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a tube structure of the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of a tube structure of the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a fixing pin of the third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a tube structure of the third embodiment of the present invention before tensioning, and FIG. 19 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a tube structure of the third embodiment of the present invention after tensioning.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 15 to 19, the tube structure (10) of the present embodiment includes a tube (11) and a fixing pin (12).

[0088] A space is formed inside the tube (11) to accommodate the material used for making the leak plug. The tube (11) may be made of a transparent material to check for changes in the material during the tensioning and drying operations of the tube (11) as described later.

[0089] The tube (11) may have an inlet (11a) formed therein so that a material used for making a leak plug can be introduced into the space. The inlet (11a) may be formed at various points on the tube (11), and in this embodiment, it is formed at both ends of the tube (11) to communicate with the space (S).

[0090] Meanwhile, the material contained inside the tube may be any known material used in the production of leak plugs. In this embodiment, a hydrogel material may be used, and there will be no limitations on the material forming the hydrogel.

[0091] Meanwhile, when a hydrogel material is used as a punctal plug, it absorbs tears and expands. In particular, when manufactured in a cylindrical shape, the longitudinal axis shortens and the transverse axis lengthens, so it is fixed within the punctal canal and does not fall out.

[0092] Furthermore, the material may include various drugs for treatment in addition to polymeric materials for forming the hydrogel.

[0093] The space (S) of the tube (11) includes a shielding space (S1), a buffer space (S2), and a molding space (S3).

[0094] The first protrusion (13), described later, is located in the shielding space (S1), the second protrusion (14), described later, and the material (M) are located in the buffering space (S2), and the material (M) is located in the molding space (S3).

[0095] Meanwhile, as described below, a space may be formed so that a material can be positioned between the first protrusion (13) and the tube (11), and in this case, the first protrusion (13) and the material (M) may be positioned in the shielding space (S1).

[0096] In the present invention, the tube (11) is stretched while filled with a hydrogel material inside, and as the diameter of the tube (11) decreases, the hydrogel material inside the tube is also deformed to have a smaller diameter. Then, it is dried in the deformed form, and when it comes into contact with water such as tears later, it is restored to its original shape before deformation, and the cylindrical punctum plug is deformed so that its length shortens and its diameter increases, and through this process, it is stably positioned in the small tube inside the punctum.

[0097] During the tensioning process, at least a portion of the part of the tube (11) containing the shielding space (S1) and buffer space (S2) is positioned in the first fixing module (414) and the second fixing module (424) of the manufacturing device (400). Then, the tube (11) is tensioned by an external force while the portion is pressurized by the first fixing module (414) and the second fixing module (424).

[0098] In this case, if there is empty space in the shielding space (S1) and the buffer space (S2), as the diameter of the tube (11) decreases during the tensioning process, some of the material (M) located in the forming space (S3) flows into the buffer space (S2) and the shielding space (S1). Consequently, as the diameter of the tube (11) decreases, a problem arises in that the forming space (S3) does not decrease uniformly.

[0099] Therefore, in the present invention, as the material (M) is positioned in the shielding space (S1) and the buffer space (S2), the inflow of the material from the forming space (S3) into the shielding space (S1) and the buffer space (S2) during the tensioning process of the tube (11) can be minimized, thereby allowing the diameter of the forming space (S3) to be uniformly reduced. Accordingly, during the tensioning of the tube and the deformation process of the forming space, the diameter of the leak plug located in the forming space (S3) can be uniformly formed.

[0100] Meanwhile, the tube (11) may be made of a material whose diameter can be varied during the tensioning process described later, and for example, polyurethane, silicone, etc. may be used, but there will be no limitation on the material as long as the shape can be varied by an external force.

[0101] A fixing pin (12) is installed in the inlet (11a) to shield the inlet (11a). The fixing pin (12) may be formed in various shapes to shield the inlet (11a) and thus shield the space inside the tube (11).

[0102] The fixing pin (12) in this embodiment includes a first protrusion (13) and a second protrusion (14).

[0103] The first protrusion (13) is formed to protrude from the front end of the fixing pin (11) so as to be located inside the tube (11). That is, the first protrusion (13) is located in the shielding space (S1) inside the tube (11) described above. In other words, the shielding space (S1) inside the tube (11) can be defined as the space where the first protrusion (13) is located.

[0104] The first protrusion (13) may be formed to be equal to or slightly larger than the inner diameter of the tube (11) and may be coupled to the tube (11) by an interference fit method. In this embodiment, the first protrusion (13) is formed in a cylindrical shape and will be inserted into the inlet (11a) of the tube (11).

[0105] Meanwhile, as described above, the first protrusion (13) may be formed smaller than the inner diameter of the tube (11), or may be formed in various shapes having various spaces where a material can be positioned between the tube (11) and the first protrusion (13).

[0106] The second protrusion (14) is provided at the front end of the first protrusion (13) and is located inside the material (M). The second protrusion (14) is located in the buffer space (S2) described above.

[0107] That is, with the material filled inside the tube (11), the fixing pin (12) is connected to the tube (11), and the second protrusion (14) is located inside the material (M). In other words, the buffer space (S2) inside the tube (11) can be defined as the space where the second protrusion (14) is located.

[0108] The second protrusion (14) is provided to come into contact with the material in the buffer space (S2) and performs the function of ensuring that the material in the molding space (S3) is uniformly molded during the recognition process of the tube (11).

[0109] Specifically, through the moving member (420) described later, the tube (11) is extended in the longitudinal direction, and the fixing pin (12) also moves along the moving member (420). At this time, as the second protrusion (14) is located inside the material (M) in the buffer space (S2), a tensile force is partially applied to the gel-shaped hydrogel due to the movement of the second protrusion (14) in contact with the hydrogel.

[0110] That is, an external force is applied to the material located in the molding space (S3) in a direction in which the diameter of the tube (11) decreases, and at the same time, as the material comes into contact with the second protrusion (14), a tensile force is applied through the second protrusion (14).

[0111] Therefore, the material of the molding space (S3) can be deformed more uniformly.

[0112] Meanwhile, in order for the tensile force resulting from the movement of the second protrusion (14) to be effectively provided, the contact area and the contact structure between the second protrusion (14) and the material (M) are important.

[0113] Accordingly, in this embodiment, the second protrusion (14) includes a first member (14a) and a second member (14b) having a different cross-sectional area from that of the first member (14a). In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second member (14b) is formed to be larger. Therefore, during the tensioning process of the tube (11), as the second member (14b) is located inside the material (M), the tensile force can be transmitted more effectively to the hydrogel-type material.

[0114] Meanwhile, during the drying process after tensioning, the hydrogel shrinks. At this time, since the second protrusion (14) is located inside the hydrogel while drying, the second protrusion (14) also performs the function of preventing the hydrogel from shrinking.

[0115] FIGS. 20 to 22 are drawings showing fixing pins of tube structures of the fourth to sixth embodiments of the present invention.

[0116] In the 4th to 6th embodiments, the shape of the second protrusion of the fixing pin differs, while the remaining parts are identical, so the following description will focus on the differences.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 20, one or more grooves (114a) are formed in the second protrusion (114) in this embodiment. There are no restrictions on the shape of the grooves, and as the grooves are formed, the contact area between the hydrogel and the second protrusion increases, and the function of providing tensile force to the hydrogel during the tensile process or preventing the hydrogel from shrinking during the drying process can be performed more effectively.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 21, a hole (214a) is formed in the second protrusion (214) in this embodiment, and as can be seen in the embodiment of FIG. 22, there is no limitation on the shape of the hole (314a) formed in the second protrusion (314). And this configuration also performs the function of helping to stretch the hydrogel during the stretching process and preventing shrinkage of the hydrogel during the drying process, just as above.

[0119] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a tube structure tensioning device for manufacturing a leak plug according to the 7th embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of a fixing part of a tube structure tensioning device for manufacturing a leak plug according to the 7th embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 25 is a drawing showing the state in which a tube structure is tensioned by a tube structure tensioning device for manufacturing a leak plug according to the 7th embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 25, the tube structure tensioning device (400) for manufacturing a leak plug according to the present embodiment includes a base member (410), a moving member (420), and a tensioning part (430).

[0121] The base member (410) includes a first fixing module (414) to which one end of the tube structure (10) is fixed. As long as one end of the tube structure (10) can be stably fixed, there will be no restrictions on the structure and shape of the first fixing module (414).

[0122] The first fixing module (414) in this embodiment includes a first fixing part (411), a first pressing part (412), and a first adjusting part (413).

[0123] The first fixing part (411) is coupled to the base member (410), and a receiving groove (411a) is formed to accommodate a part of the tube structure (10). Then, a groove (411b) is formed into which the screw part (413a) of the first adjusting part (413), which will be described later, can be inserted, and a screw groove is formed on the inner surface of the groove (411b).

[0124] The first pressure member (412) presses the tube structure (10) located in the receiving groove (411a). Specifically, in this embodiment, a pressure projection (412a) for pressing the tube structure (10) is formed at the lower part of the first pressure member (412). Additionally, a through hole (412b) is formed through which the screw portion (413a) of the first adjustment member (413), which will be described later, passes.

[0125] The first adjustment part (413) controls the degree to which the first pressure part (412) pressurizes the tube structure (10). Specifically, in this embodiment, it includes a screw part (413a) with screw threads formed thereon, and the screw part (413a) passes through the through hole (412b) and is screw-coupled to the screw groove (411b). Thus, the first pressure part (412) pressurizes while rotating, and accordingly, the degree of pressure of the tube structure (10) can be controlled.

[0126] Meanwhile, the degree to which the first adjustment part (413) presses the first pressing part (412) may be adjusted in proportion to the movement of the moving member (420) by the tension part (430) described later.

[0127] As the moving member (420) moves, the tube structure (10) is stretched, and depending on the degree of stretching, the tube structure (10) is further compressed. In the present invention, while stretching the tube structure, the deformation of the hydrogel contained within the tube structure (10) is ultimately induced. Therefore, by adjusting the degree of compression of the tube structure (10) in proportion to the provided tensile force, it may be possible to induce the hydrogel to deform into a uniform shape in the longitudinal direction.

[0128] Meanwhile, when the first adjustment unit (413) and the tensioning unit (430) are driven by a motor or the like, the motor driving signal transmitted to the tensioning unit (430) and the motor driving signal transmitted to the first adjustment unit (413) are linked through a control unit (not shown), etc., thereby enabling control of the pressure applied by the first adjustment unit (413).

[0129] A sliding groove (410a) is formed in the base member (410), and a sliding projection (420a) of a moving member (420), which will be described later, is inserted into the sliding groove (410a).

[0130] And a rotating member (431) of the tension member (430) described later is inserted into the base member (410), and a through hole (410b) with a screw groove formed on the inner surface is formed.

[0131] The movable member (420) is formed to be movable, and a second fixing module (424) is formed to fix the other end of the tube structure (10).

[0132] A sliding projection (424) is formed in the moving member (420) and is inserted into the sliding groove (410a), and moves along the sliding groove (410a) by an external force transmitted through the tension member (430) described later.

[0133] The overall configuration of the second fixing module (424) is the same as the first fixing module (414) described above. That is, it includes a second fixing part (421), a second pressurizing part (422), and a second adjusting part (423).

[0134] A receiving groove (421a) and a screw groove (421b) are formed in the second fixing part (421), a pressure projection (422a) and a through hole (422b) are formed in the second pressing part (422), and a screw part (423a) is formed in the second adjusting part (423).

[0135] And the degree to which the second adjustment part (423) presses the second pressure part (422) may also be linked to the tension force provided by the tension part (430).

[0136] The tensioning member (430) moves the moving member (420). In this embodiment, the tensioning member (430) includes a rotating body (431) and a gripping member (432).

[0137] One end of the rotating body (431) is fixed to the moving member (420), and a screw thread is formed on the outer surface, and is inserted into the through hole (410b) of the base member (410) and engages with the screw groove of the through hole (410b).

[0138] The grip portion (432) is connected to the rotating body (431), and external force is transmitted through the grip portion (432), but power transmission through it may also be possible by connecting it to a motor, etc.

[0139] That is, one end of the tube structure (10) described above is fixed to the first fixing module (414) of the base member (410), and the other end is fixed to the second fixing module (424) of the movable member (420).

[0140] And as the rotating body (431) of the tensioning part (430) rotates, the moving member (420) moves, and accordingly, the tube structure (10) is tensioned. And as the diameter of the tube structure decreases while it is tensioned, the hydrogel contained inside the tube structure (10) also undergoes shrinkage deformation.

[0141] And the degree to which both ends of the tube structure (10) are pressed in response to the tensile force provided to maintain uniformity of shape during the shrinkage deformation process can be adjusted.

[0142] Meanwhile, the tensioned tube structure (10) undergoes a drying process, and after drying, the deformed hydrogel is separated from the tube structure, and the separated hydrogel is processed to a desired length to produce a leak plug.

[0143] Meanwhile, as described above, a phenomenon may occur in which the hydrogel, which was deformed during the drying process of the tube structure (10), shrinks. Since the second protrusion (14) of the fixing pin (12) is inserted into both ends of the hydrogel in the buffer space (S2), it performs the function of preventing the hydrogel from shrinking and inducing it to maintain its deformed shape.

[0144] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a tube structure fixing jig of the eighth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of a tube structure fixing jig of the eighth embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 28 is a drawing showing a state in which a tube structure of the third embodiment of the present invention is coupled to a tube structure tensioning device, FIG. 29 is a drawing showing a state in which a tube structure is tensioned through a tube structure tensioning device of one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 30 is a drawing showing a tube structure that has been tensioned using a tube structure fixing jig of the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] Referring to FIGS. 26 to 30, the tube structure fixing jig (500) of the present embodiment serves to fix at least a part of the tube structure (10) during the process in which a tensile force is applied to the tube structure (10) through the tube structure tensioning device described above.

[0146] Ultimately, the purpose of the present invention is to induce deformation of the hydrogel contained within through deformation of the tube structure (10), and the fixing jig of the present invention functions to induce deformation of the hydrogel in a more uniform form.

[0147] Specifically, the tube structure fixing jig (500) of the present embodiment includes a lower jig (510), an upper jig (520), and a pressurizing part (530).

[0148] The lower jig (510) has a receiving groove (511) formed therein that accommodates at least a portion of the tube structure (10). At least a portion of the molding space (S3) of the tube (11) may be located in the receiving groove (511). The lower jig (510) has a first fixing hole (512) formed therein to which the screw portion (531) of the pressure portion (530), described later, is screw-coupled, and a screw groove formed in the inner diameter of the first fixing hole (512) that engages with the screw threads of the screw portion (531).

[0149] A second fixing hole (523) into which a fixing pin (540) is inserted is formed in the lower jig (510), and in this embodiment, a pair of second fixing holes (523) are formed on both sides of the first fixing hole (512).

[0150] The upper jig (520) has a second receiving groove (521) formed therein, in which at least a portion of the tube structure (10) is received. At least a portion of the molding space (S3) of the tube (11) may be located in the second receiving groove (521).

[0151] In the upper jig (520), a through hole (522) through which the screw portion (531) of the pressure portion (530) described later passes and a fourth fixing hole (523) through which the fixing pin (540) passes are formed, and in this embodiment, a pair of fourth fixing holes (533) are formed on both sides of the through hole (522).

[0152] That is, the tube structure (10) is tensioned while being received in the first receiving groove (511) and the second receiving groove (521). Thus, the tube (11) made of a flexible material is supported in the first receiving groove (511) and deforms based on the shape in which the first receiving groove (511) and the second receiving groove (512) are formed.

[0153] There are no restrictions on the shape of the first receiving groove (511) and the second receiving groove (521), and in this embodiment, the first receiving groove (511) and the second receiving groove (521) may be formed to form a cylindrical shape.

[0154] Furthermore, if the diameter of the cylinder formed by the first receiving groove (511) and the second receiving groove (521) is formed to be smaller than the outer diameter of the tube (11), particularly the outer diameter of the molding space (S3), the tube (11) is received in the first receiving groove (511) and the second receiving groove (512) while under pressure and is then tensioned, and the diameter of the tube (11) may be reduced during the tensioning process.

[0155] Meanwhile, the pressurizing unit (530) performs the function of applying external force to the upper jig (520) to apply pressure.

[0156] The pressure member (530) can be formed in various structures for applying pressure to the upper jig (520), and in this embodiment, it includes a screw member (531) that penetrates the through hole (522) of the upper jig (520) and is screw-coupled to the first fixing hole (512) of the lower jig (510).

[0157] Therefore, as the screw portion (531) rotates, the upper jig (520) presses the lower jig (510).

[0158] Meanwhile, the degree to which the pressing part (530) presses the upper jig (520) can be adjusted in proportion to the movement of the moving member (420) by the tension part (430) described above.

[0159] As the moving member (420) moves, the tube structure (10) is stretched, and depending on the degree of stretching, the tube structure (10) is further compressed. In the present invention, while stretching the tube structure, the deformation of the hydrogel contained within the tube structure (10) is ultimately induced. Therefore, by adjusting the degree of compression of the tube structure (10) in proportion to the provided tensile force, it may be possible to induce the hydrogel to deform into a uniform shape in the longitudinal direction.

[0160] Meanwhile, when the pressurizing part (530) and the tensioning part (430) are driven by a motor or the like, the motor driving signal transmitted to the tensioning part (430) and the motor driving signal transmitted to the pressurizing part (530) are linked through a control part (not shown), etc., so that the pressurizing force of the pressurizing part (530) can be controlled.

[0161] That is, when using the tube structure fixing jig of the present embodiment, the shape of the molding space (S3) of the tube (11) can be uniformly formed, as can be seen in FIG. 30.

[0162] And as the tube (11) stretches, a tension area (S4) may be provided that is exposed outside the fixing jig (500) and has a diameter larger than that of the molding space (S3).

[0163] Furthermore, when proceeding with the process of drying the hydrogel after tensioning, the process can be carried out with the tube structure (10) accommodated in the fixing jig (500).

[0164] In this case, as explained, as the hydrogel (M) shrinks during the drying process and the outer diameter expands, it will be possible to prevent the tube (11) from expanding again.

[0165] FIG. 31 is a drawing showing a cross-section of a tube structure fixing jig of the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 31, the first receiving groove (611) of the lower jig (610) of the fixing jig (600) in this embodiment is divided into two parts having different diameters. Specifically, in this embodiment, it is divided into a first part (611a) having a first diameter and a second part (611b) having a diameter larger than the first diameter. And the second receiving groove (621) of the upper jig (620) is also divided into a first part (621a) having a first diameter and a second part (621b) having a second diameter.

[0167] That is, in this embodiment, the second part (611b, 621b) having a second diameter serves to buffer the deformation of the tube (11) and the hydrogel (M) during the stretching process and the drying process, and helps the tube (11) and the hydrogel (M) maintain a uniform shape during the stretching and drying process in the first part (611a, 621a).

[0168] The other configurations of the present embodiment are identical to the first embodiment of the tube structure fixing jig described above, so further description is omitted.

[0169] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a tube structure fixing jig of the 10th embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 32, the upper jig (710) and lower jig (720) of the fixing jig (700) of the present embodiment have exposed portions (710a, 720a) formed by being recessed so that at least a portion of the tube structure can be exposed.

[0171] Specifically, an exposed portion (710a, 720a) is formed by being recessed inwardly on the side of the upper jig (710) and lower jig (720) so that at least a portion of the tube structure is exposed to the external environment, and a portion of the tube structure is exposed through the exposed portion (710a, 720a).

[0172] In other words, if the entire tube structure is located inside the fixing jig during the drying process, drying may not be sufficient, whereas exposing at least a part of the tube structure will allow the drying process to proceed smoothly.

[0173] Other configurations of this embodiment are identical to the embodiments described above, so further description is omitted.

[0174] That is, in the present invention, the hydrogel (M) can be manufactured by deforming it into a desired shape through the configuration of the tube structure (10) in which the hydrogel is received, and while the tube structure is stably fixed through a fixing jig (500, 600, 700) for fixing the tube structure (10), an external force can be applied to the tube structure (10) through a tube structure tensioning device (200) to easily manufacture a leak plug using the hydrogel.

[0175] Although the structure and features of the present invention have been described above based on embodiments according to the present invention, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes or modifications can be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention; therefore, it is noted that such changes or modifications fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A catheter hub in which a fluid path is formed to accommodate a fistula plug; and A main body comprising an external force applying part that is coupled to the catheter hub and applies an external force to a discharge plug received in the catheter hub; A leak point plug insertion device including 2. In Paragraph 1, The above main body further includes a main body body to which the catheter hub is detachably coupled, The above external force application part is movably coupled to the main body, and A leak plug insertion device having a pusher having a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the above-mentioned fluid path at the front end of the above-mentioned external force application part.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above catheter hub is, catheter body; and A catheter tube in which a discharge plug is received, and at least a portion is exposed to the front of the catheter body; A leak point plug insertion device including 4. In Paragraph 3, A leak plug insertion device in which a portion of the outer diameter of the above catheter tube is formed to become smaller as it extends forward.

5. In Paragraph 3, The above catheter tube is made of a flexible material, and A catheter hub in which at least a portion of the inner diameter of the catheter tube is formed to be smaller than the outer diameter of the plug.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above catheter tube is a catheter hub made of a flexible material.

7. Catheter body; and A catheter tube in which a discharge plug is received, and at least a portion is exposed to the front of the catheter body; A catheter hub containing 8. In Paragraph 7, A catheter hub formed such that a portion of the outer diameter of the above catheter tube becomes smaller as it extends forward.

9. In Paragraph 7, A catheter hub further comprising a shielding portion that seals at least one of the two ends of the catheter tube.

10. In Paragraph 7, The above catheter tube is made of a flexible material, and A catheter hub in which at least a portion of the inner diameter of the catheter tube is formed to be smaller than the outer diameter of the plug.

11. In Paragraph 7, The above catheter tube is a catheter hub made of a flexible material.

12. A tube having a space formed for receiving a material forming a leakage plug, and having inlets formed at both ends for introducing the material; and A fixing pin provided in each of the above-mentioned inlets to shield each of the above-mentioned inlets; A tube structure for manufacturing a leak plug including 13. In Paragraph 12, The above fixing pin further includes a first protrusion formed protruding from the front end of the fixing pin so as to be located on the inner side of the tube, and A tube structure for manufacturing a leak plug, wherein the first protrusion is formed to have a space between the spaces of the tube so that the material can be positioned therein.

14. In Paragraph 13, A tube structure for manufacturing a leak plug, further comprising a second protrusion provided at the front end of the first protrusion and located inside the material.

15. In Paragraph 14, A tube structure for manufacturing a leak plug, wherein the space of the above tube comprises a shielding area where the first protrusion is located, a buffering area where the second protrusion and the material are located, and a molding area where the material is located.

16. In Paragraph 14, The above second protrusion is a tube structure for manufacturing a leak plug, comprising a first member and a second member having a cross-sectional area different from that of the first member.

17. In Paragraph 14, A tube for making a leak plug, wherein at least one groove into which the material is inserted is formed in the second protrusion.

18. In Paragraph 14, A tube for making a leak plug, wherein an opening hole into which the material is inserted is formed in the second protrusion above.

19. In paragraphs 12 through 18, A base member having a first fixing module formed thereon, wherein one end of the above-mentioned tube structure is fixed; A second fixing module is formed to which the other end of the tube structure for manufacturing the above-mentioned leak plug is fixed, and a movable member is formed to be movable; and A tension member that moves the above-mentioned moving member; A tube structure tensioning device for manufacturing leak plugs including 20. In Paragraph 19, A lower jig having a first receiving groove formed therein for receiving at least a portion of a tube structure; and An upper jig coupled to the lower jig and having a second receiving groove formed therein in which at least a portion of the tube structure is received; A tube structure tensioning device for making a leak plug, further comprising a tube structure fixing jig for making a leak plug including.

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