Venipuncture Assist Device Vacuum Vein Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Venipuncture procedures can be challenging due to varying vein structures and sizes among patients, particularly in elderly and pediatric populations, leading to increased difficulty and pain, especially in emergency situations where time is critical.
Innovation Solution
A venipuncture assist device with a main body featuring a vein capture channel that creates a bend in subcutaneous veins using vacuum pressure, allowing for a straight insertion axis and optimized needle-piercing configuration, reducing the likelihood of extravasation and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional manual venipuncture is performed, then the procedure can be performed with simple equipment, but the accuracy and reliability of vein puncture is reduced due to vein movement and suboptimal needle angle
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a base portion that interfaces with the skin surface, a vertical wall that creates containment, and a needle guide that directs needle insertion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall device reliability for accurate venipuncture.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces an intermediary structure between the needle and the moving vein - a controlled environment within the vertical wall that stabilizes the vein and guides the needle. This intermediary mechanism mediates the interaction between the practitioner's manual needle insertion and the patient's moving vein, significantly improving puncture reliability.
2Productivity
If multiple venipuncture attempts are made due to difficulty in accessing veins, then more patients can be accommodated, but the time required for the procedure increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary actions by stabilizing the vein and pre-aligning the needle path before the actual puncture occurs. The vertical wall structure pre-positioned on the skin creates a controlled environment that eliminates the need for repeated adjustment attempts, allowing the practitioner to perform venipuncture more efficiently and reduce procedural time.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes the physical parameters of the venipuncture environment by creating a confined space that alters vein behavior - the vein becomes stabilized rather than mobile, and the needle insertion angle is standardized. These parameter changes transform a difficult, time-consuming procedure into a more efficient process with higher throughput.
3Reliability
If the needle is inserted at non-optimal angles due to vein positioning, then the procedure can be completed, but the risk of extravasation and complications increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies local quality control by creating a specific geometric structure with a vertical wall and needle guide that locally confines and directs the needle insertion. This localized structural quality ensures the needle approaches the vein at the optimal angle precisely where needed, reducing extravasation risk while not requiring changes to the overall procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the natural hydraulic pressure of blood flow within the vein to enhance vein visibility and positioning within the vertical wall structure. The blood pressure maintains vein distension and positioning, which helps ensure proper needle alignment and reduces the risk of extravasation by keeping the vein in a stable, accessible state.
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 device enhances the reliability and speed of venipuncture by immobilizing veins and guiding needles at an optimal angle, minimizing the risk of missing the vein and reducing procedural pain and time in medical emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
The device further includes a vein capture channel disposed within the bottom surface configured to receive the target venipuncture site therein when the vein capture channel is evacuated by vacuum
Data Source
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AI summary
A venipuncture assist device includes a main body having a first surface configured to confront a target venipuncture site. The device further includes a vein capture channel disposed within the first surface configured to urge a portion of a patient's tissue and subcutaneous vein therein when the vein capture channel is evacuated by vacuum, wherein the urging creates a bend in the vein for piercing by a venipuncture needle. The device further includes one or more needle channels extending from a front main body surface configured to receive and guide the needle into the bend in the vein.