Implantable Infusion Device Side Port Access Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable infusion devices face difficulties in accurately accessing the side port due to its location on the outer perimeter, leading to incorrect identification of the refill port, resulting in improper medication or contrast dye delivery and potential catheter blockage misdiagnosis.
Innovation Solution
Employing a pressure sensor associated with the outlet port to detect side port access, allowing confirmation without additional sensors or structural elements, using pressure measurements to determine if the side port has been successfully accessed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the side port is located on the outer perimeter of the infusion device, then the likelihood of tactile distinction from the refill port is increased, but access to the side port becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time pressure feedback to the clinician during needle insertion. When the needle successfully accesses the side port, the pressure sensor detects the pressure change and the system provides feedback (visual, auditory, or haptic) to confirm successful access, enabling reliable identification and easy access despite the peripheral location
2Reliability
If the side port is located on the outer perimeter of the infusion device, then the likelihood of tactile distinction from the refill port is increased, but correct access determination becomes unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor provides objective feedback to confirm whether the needle has successfully accessed the side port. The system monitors pressure changes during insertion and provides definitive confirmation when the needle tip enters the port, eliminating ambiguous tactile differentiation and ensuring precise access determination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/tactile method of distinguishing ports with a sensor-based pressure detection system. Instead of relying on the clinician's tactile sense to differentiate between ports, the system uses electronic pressure sensors to detect and confirm needle insertion into the side port
3Measurement precision
If pressure measurements are used to confirm side port access, then access accuracy is improved, but no additional sensors or structural elements are required
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor serves multiple functions: it detects side port access, monitors catheter occlusion, and provides feedback for correct needle insertion. By making the sensor multi-functional, the system achieves precise access detection without requiring additional dedicated sensors or structural elements, thereby maintaining simplicity while improving measurement precision
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
Ensures accurate side port access confirmation, preventing incorrect medication delivery and catheter blockage diagnosis, enhancing the reliability of infusion procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the present apparatus and methods use a pressure sensor associated with the outlet port, which may also be used to detect catheter blockages, to detect side port access
Data Source
AI summary
Implantable infusion devices and systems with side port access detection capability and methods of detecting side port access.