Stabilizing Connector for Vascular Access Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vascular access devices (VADs) face challenges with stabilization, as existing stabilization devices are often complex, time-consuming to use, provide inadequate stabilization, and can affect flow rates or are designed for specific devices, increasing the complexity and cost of medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A stabilizing connector device with a connector portion and a stabilization portion integrally formed, featuring a distal coupler and a proximal coupler that stabilizes the VAD by being secured to the patient's skin, maintaining a common axis for fluid communication and reducing pressure on veins to prevent occlusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing stabilization devices are used, then stabilization of VAD is achieved, but device complexity and time required for use increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connector portion and stabilization portion into a single integrated device. The stabilization portion is formed as one piece with the connector portion, eliminating the need for separate stabilization devices and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective stabilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated connector-stabilization device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides vascular access connection, stabilizes the catheter position, and maintains fluid flow pathways. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall procedure.
2Reliability
If existing stabilization devices are used, then stabilization of VAD is achieved, but procedure time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the connector and stabilization functions into one device, the procedure requires only a single insertion and securing action rather than multiple separate steps, significantly reducing the time required to achieve stable VAD placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization portion is pre-formed and integrated into the connector during manufacturing, so that stabilization capability is immediately available upon insertion without requiring additional preparation or assembly steps during the procedure.
3Reliability
If stabilization devices are added, then VAD stabilization is improved, but flow rate through VAD and vein may be negatively affected
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization portion is designed with specific local characteristics including a base surface for skin contact and a profile that extends away from the vein. This localized design provides stabilization at the insertion site while minimizing interference with the vein lumen and maintaining blood flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilization portion extends in a dimension away from the vein (perpendicular to the vessel axis), utilizing the space between the skin surface and the vein rather than compressing the vein itself. This dimensional approach provides stabilization without directly impeding blood flow.
4Reliability
If stabilization devices are used, then VAD movement is reduced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of stabilization functionality into the connector portion creates a single-device solution that reduces the number of components, assembly steps, and potential failure points, thereby reducing overall device complexity and cost while maintaining stabilization effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
A stabilizing connector includes a connector portion and a stabilization portion. The connector portion is configured to couple to an access device. The connector portion defines at least one lumen that is configured to be placed in fluid communication with a lumen of the access device. The stabilization portion is coupled to the connector portion. The stabilization portion is configured to be placed in contact with a surface of a patient's skin to stabilize at least one of the stabilizing connector or the access device.