Catheter Light Source for Intravenous Access Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for verifying successful cannulation of veins during intravenous access are inefficient, requiring multiple attempts and increased time, pain, and anxiety for patients, with limited ability to detect successful cannulation events.
Innovation Solution
A system using a needle with a light source and camera that projects images of blood vessels and the needle onto the skin, with light absorption by hemoglobin indicating cannulation, allowing real-time visualization of needle placement and successful cannulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional trial-and-error needle insertion method is used, then equipment complexity is low, but the number of attempts and time required for successful cannulation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical trial-and-error needle insertion method with an optical imaging system. The infrared detector and projector system allows clinicians to visualize veins and needle position optically, eliminating the need for repeated mechanical attempts based on tactile feedback alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time visual feedback through the projected image on the patient's skin, showing the needle position relative to the vein. This feedback loop allows the clinician to adjust needle position continuously during insertion, rather than relying on post-insertion verification through multiple attempts.
2Device complexity
If traditional needle insertion without imaging is used, then device complexity is low, but patient pain and anxiety increase due to multiple attempts
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary visualization of the vein and needle position before final needle insertion. The infrared imaging allows the clinician to plan the insertion path in advance and verify correct placement beforehand, preventing repeated painful attempts.
3Ease of operation
If VeinViewer infrared detector is used to image vasculature, then ease of vein location is improved, but ability to detect successful cannulation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the infrared imaging system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both vein visualization and cannulation detection. The same infrared detector that images the vein also detects the infrared light emitted from the needle tip, allowing a single system to fulfill both functions.
4Measurement precision
If ultrasound is used for deep vein access, then cannulation detection capability is improved, but ease of operation for peripheral veins deteriorates due to transducer handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical ultrasound transducer with an optical infrared imaging system. The infrared detector and projector system eliminates the need for manual transducer manipulation while providing continuous visual feedback on needle position and cannulation status.
5Measurement precision
If optical fiber is extended out of needle tip to locate vein, then cannulation detection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the needle multi-functional by integrating both the light guide (for visualization) and the cannulation detection capability into a single device. The needle serves as both the insertion tool and the sensor carrier, eliminating the need for separate external fiber optic components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces the number of attempts and time required for successful cannulation, enhances patient comfort, and provides immediate visual feedback for clinicians, improving medical care efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The light is reflected and scattered by tissue but absorbed by hemoglobin in the blood
Implementation Method 2
The light is reflected and scattered by tissue but absorbed by hemoglobin in the blood
Implementation Method 3
the projector then projects the image obtained by the camera onto the patient's skin
Data Source
AI summary
A system is set forth for detection of catheter location for intravenous access, comprising a catheter having a light source for illuminating a needle tip thereof; and an infrared detector and image projector for simultaneously detecting image vasculature and the location of the needle tip below the surface of the skin and in response projecting an image onto the skin to reveal the location of the needle tip relative to the vasculature.