Hemodialysis Needle Assembly with Integral Tip Protector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hemodialysis needles often puncture surgically constructed fistulas or grafts during extended sessions, leading to hemorrhages and fistula thrombosis in approximately 26% of patients, necessitating central dialysis catheter use and increased risks.
Innovation Solution
A hemodialysis needle assembly with an integral needle tip protector that can be extended and locked to shield the sharp needle tip, reducing the risk of puncture and providing protection for both patients and medical personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a sharp needle point is used for hemodialysis, then easy insertion into the fistula or graft is achieved, but the risk of puncturing the fistula or graft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The needle assembly is divided into two functional parts: an outer needle with a sharp point for easy insertion, and an inner needle tip protector that can be extended to cover the sharp point. This segmentation allows the needle to provide both easy insertion and protection against puncture damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The needle tip protector is pre-positioned within the needle assembly in a retracted state, ready to be extended before the needle is fully inserted into the fistula or graft. This preliminary positioning ensures that the sharp point is covered at the appropriate moment, preventing puncture damage while maintaining ease of insertion.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the needle tip protector is extended to cover the sharp needle tip, then protection against puncture is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The needle tip protector is integrated as an integral part of the needle assembly, combining the protective function with the existing needle structure. This merging reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device while maintaining protection against puncture.
Solution Approach 2:
The needle tip protector is designed with dynamic capability to extend and retract along the longitudinal axis of the needle. This dynamic feature allows the protector to be positioned as needed during insertion and use, providing protection only when required, thereby reducing unnecessary complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A needle assembly for medical or surgical use is disclosed, such as for hemodialysis. A representative needle assembly comprises an outer needle assembly and an integral needle tip protector. A representative outer needle assembly comprises: an outer needle comprising: a first lumen; a first aperture with a sharp needle tip at a first distal end of the outer needle; and a second aperture arranged opposite the first aperture. In another embodiment, the outer needle has a longitudinal slot and the integral needle tip protector includes a sliding connector which is slidable in the longitudinal slot. The integral needle tip protector is arranged within the first lumen and moveable between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration, and comprises: a needle tip cover arranged to shield the sharp needle tip in the extended configuration, the needle tip cover having a smooth or beveled distal surface forming a blunt tip.