Conductive Hook and Loop Catheter Needle Disconnection Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing needle access disconnection detection systems in catheter-based therapies are inadequate, particularly for patients who move during treatment, as they often require significant blood flow to activate alarms, may not alert patients with hearing impairments, and can be prone to noise or signal loss due to high impedance components.
Innovation Solution
A conductive mechanical securement system using conductive hook and loop retention members that completes an electrical circuit when the needle is properly attached, allowing for real-time disconnection detection and automatic alarm activation, with the option for wireless communication to ensure the dialysis machine stops pumps and alerts the patient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If adhesive catheter securing devices are used to attach the catheter to the patient, then the mechanical securement is improved, but the device provides no recourse if the needle becomes dislodged despite the securement device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by integrating a conductive circuit into the securement device that continuously monitors the connection status between the needle and the patient. When dislodgement occurs, the circuit detects the change in electrical properties (capacitance or resistance) and provides feedback to the dialysis machine, which then triggers an alarm and stops treatment. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining strong mechanical securement while adding reliable detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the mechanical securement function with the electrical detection function into a single integrated device. The conductive elements are embedded within or attached to the adhesive securement device, combining the physical retention role with the monitoring role. This integration ensures that the same device providing mechanical strength also provides dislodgement detection, eliminating the need for separate systems.
2Reliability
If RedSenseTM device is used to detect needle dislodgement through blood saturation of an absorbent pad, then the detection function is provided, but a relatively large amount of blood is required to activate the device and the passive audible alarm may not be heard by patients with hearing impairment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/biological detection method (blood saturation of absorbent pad) with an electrical detection method. Instead of waiting for blood to physically saturate a pad, the system uses conductive elements that detect changes in electrical capacitance or resistance caused by the proximity of blood or tissue when the needle is properly positioned. This substitution eliminates the need for large blood volumes while providing earlier and more reliable detection.
3Reliability
If access disconnection systems rely on current flowing through the patient's blood to indicate proper needle access, then the detection function is provided, but the system can succumb to noise, ground loops or loss of signal due to high impedance or high resistance components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement approach by placing conductive elements on the external surface of the skin rather than requiring current to flow through the blood and high-impedance components. The system measures electrical capacitance or resistance between these external conductive elements, which are influenced by the underlying blood vessels and tissue. This intermediary approach avoids the harmful effects of noise and ground loops associated with direct blood-based electrical measurements.
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
The system provides a secure and reliable means to detect needle disconnection without requiring continuous blood flow, ensuring patient safety by automatically stopping pumps and alerting the patient, even in noisy environments, and allowing for reusable and cost-effective components.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the embodiments discussed herein includes a first conductive attachment material and a second conductive attachment material. When the first and second conductive attachment materials are fastened to each other, a circuit is completed.
Data Source
AI summary
A blood access device includes (i) a first layer, a bottom surface of the first layer including (a) an adhesive or (b) a hook and loop material for securing the first layer to a patient, a first conductive attachment material located at a top surface of the first layer; (ii) a first conductor contacting the first conductive attachment material; (iii) a second layer, a second conductive attachment material located at a bottom surface of the second layer, the first and second conductive attachment materials configured to be releasably secured to each other; (iv) a second conductor contacting the second conductive attachment material; and (v) a blood vessel access member carried by the second layer.