Catheter Adapter Side Port Probe Access Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) face limitations in probe access due to the length and obstructions in the fluid path, making it difficult for probes to reach the vascular system without encountering frictional resistance and obstructions, particularly with systems like Nexiva™ and Nexiva™ Diffusics™ closed IV catheter systems.
Innovation Solution
The design of a vascular access device with a catheter adapter featuring a side port and internal fluid passageway that allows a probe to enter at a contact angle greater than 90 degrees, utilizing protrusions or septums to direct the probe path, and reducing the entrance angle of the side port to facilitate easier access, thereby minimizing the distance the probe must travel and reducing the likelihood of obstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a probe is fed from the luer adapter at the end of the extension tubing through the extension tubing, catheter adapter, and catheter to reach the vascular system, then the probe can access the vascular system, but the probe becomes obstructed due to the length and turns in the fluid path
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid path is segmented into two separate access points: a primary access point at the end of extension tubing for standard fluid administration, and a secondary access point through a side port in the catheter adapter for probe insertion. This segmentation allows probes to access the vascular system through a shorter, more direct path via the side port, avoiding the obstructions and length issues of the primary path.
Solution Approach 2:
A side port is added to the catheter adapter, creating a new dimensional access point that is not collinear with the primary fluid path. This side port allows probes to enter at an angle, reducing the effective length of the probe path and minimizing obstructions by creating a more favorable geometric trajectory through the catheter system.
2Ease of operation
If the side port is positioned to allow probe insertion, then probe access is improved, but the entrance angle becomes too large causing frictional resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The internal wall of the catheter adapter is designed with a specific geometric configuration at the side port entrance, creating a localized favorable angle (less than 45 degrees) that reduces frictional resistance. This local geometric optimization allows probes to enter smoothly without encountering excessive friction, while the rest of the fluid path maintains its structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The entrance angle of the side port is specifically designed to be less than 45 degrees, and the contact angle between the probe and internal wall is optimized to be greater than 90 degrees. These parameter optimizations reduce frictional resistance and facilitate smooth probe insertion while maintaining effective access to the vascular system.
3Length of moving object
If the probe path is made shorter by accessing through the side port, then the length requirement for the probe is reduced, but the side port must be positioned precisely to avoid obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The side port is pre-positioned in the catheter adapter at a specific location and angle during manufacturing, creating a predetermined optimal access path. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for precise manual adjustment during use, as the geometric configuration is already optimized to reduce probe length requirements while avoiding obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The side port is positioned asymmetrically relative to the primary fluid path, creating a non-collinear access point that optimizes the geometric relationship between the probe and catheter. This asymmetric positioning allows for a shorter effective probe length while maintaining a favorable insertion angle that avoids obstructions in the catheter pathway.
Data Source
AI summary
A vascular access device may be an integrated catheter. The vascular access device includes a catheter and catheter adapter having a catheter hub and side port. The contact angle of a probe is greater than 90 degrees. The entrance angle of a probe entering the catheter hub from the side port may be less than 45 degrees. The vascular access device may include a component configured to direct the path of a probe towards the catheter opening. The component may be a protrusion extending into the lumen of the side port, internal fluid passageway, and/or extension tube, or a septum within the catheter hub. The vascular access device includes an access adapter in fluid communication with the side port and permitting insertion of a probe into the catheter through the side port with or without a separate luer adapter. Methods of using a vascular access device are further disclosed.