Methods and apparatus for inserting multi-lumen split-tip catheters into a blood vessel
US8206371B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jun 26, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 22, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B17/3415
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for inserting flexible, multi-lumen catheters into blood vessels, and in particular, for inserting flexible, split-tip catheters into blood vessels. The invention accomplishes these objects by temporarily stiffening each catheter lumen and tip independently through use of intra-catheter stiffener elements disposed within the catheter lumens. This provides means for advancing the catheter/stiffeners assembly through a subcutaneous tunnel, and over a plurality of guidewires until a distal tip of the catheter is at a desired position within the vessel. The intra-catheter stiffener elements are sufficiently stiffening to allow advancing the catheter over guidewires, but sufficiently flexible to allow bending and looping of the catheter for proper placement within the vessel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.