CN211560120U - Delivery device for delivering an instrument into a catheter assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A delivery device for delivering an instrument into a catheter assembly, comprising: a syringe having a barrel and a plunger movable in the barrel; a guide feature disposed within the barrel and movable with the plunger, the guide feature comprising a channel that is generally U-shaped; an instrument disposed within the barrel and extending through the channel, the guide feature moving in a distal direction in response to depression of the plunger, the instrument moving through the channel, a first end of the instrument advancing in the distal direction, a second end of the instrument being fixed. The technical scheme of this application makes use of peripheral venous catheter to draw blood and becomes easy, when needing the blood sample, does not need additional acupuncture to provide the venous access that is used for blood collection, and this can alleviate patient's misery and reduce material cost, and help placing the blood sample apparatus in patient's vasculature and need not additional acupuncture.

Description

Delivery device for delivering an instrument into a catheter assembly

Technical Field

The present invention relates to medical devices, and more particularly to a delivery device for delivering instruments to a catheter assembly.

Background

Catheters are commonly used for a variety of infusion therapies. For example, catheters may be used to infuse fluids such as saline solutions, various medications, and total parenteral nutrition into a patient. Catheters may also be used to draw blood from a patient.

A common type of catheter is a peripheral needle ("IV") catheter. As the name implies, a needle peripheral catheter may be mounted over an introducer needle having a sharp distal tip. The catheter and the introducer needle may be assembled such that the distal tip of the introducer needle extends beyond the distal tip of the catheter and the bevel of the needle faces upward away from the patient's skin. Catheters and introducer needles are typically inserted through the skin at a shallow angle into the patient's vasculature.

To verify proper placement of the introducer needle and/or catheter in the blood vessel, the clinician typically confirms that there is "flashback" of blood in the flashback chamber of the catheter assembly. Once placement of the introducer needle is confirmed, the clinician may temporarily occlude blood flow in the vasculature and withdraw the introducer needle, leaving the catheter in place for future blood draw or infusion.

Blood drawing using a peripheral venous catheter can be difficult for a variety of reasons, particularly when the catheter has an indwelling time that exceeds one day. For example, when a catheter is left in a patient for an extended period of time, the catheter or vein may become more prone to narrowing, collapsing, kinking, clogging with debris (e.g., fibrin or platelet clots), and adhesion of the catheter tip to the vasculature. Thus, catheters are typically used to collect blood samples when the catheter is placed, and are rarely used to collect blood samples during catheter residence. Therefore, when a blood sample is required, additional needle sticks are required to provide venous access for blood collection, which can be painful to the patient and lead to higher material costs. Accordingly, there is a need for a catheter system and method that facilitates placement of blood sample instruments (e.g., catheters and stylets) in the vasculature of a patient without the need for additional needle sticks.

The claimed subject matter is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this application merely provides this background to illustrate one exemplary technology area in which some embodiments described herein may be practiced.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

The present disclosure relates generally to syringe-based delivery devices for delivering a vascular access device into a catheter assembly of a patient and/or a vasculature of a patient, and related systems and methods. In some embodiments, the delivery device may include a syringe having a barrel and a plunger movable within the barrel. In some embodiments, the delivery device may include a guide feature that may be disposed within the barrel and/or coupled to the plunger. In some embodiments, the guide feature may move with the plunger. In some embodiments, the guide feature may comprise a generally U-shaped channel. In some embodiments, the guide features and channels may be oriented within the barrel in various ways. For example, the channels may be oriented horizontally or vertically within the barrel.

In some embodiments, the delivery device may include an instrument disposed within the barrel and extending through the guide feature. For example, the instrument may extend through the channel. In some embodiments, the guide feature may be moved in a distal direction a first distance, the instrument may be moved through the channel, and the first end of the instrument may be advanced in the distal direction a second distance, which may be greater than the first distance, in response to depression of the plunger or distal movement of the plunger. In some embodiments, the second distance may be at least twice the first distance.

In some embodiments, the first end of the instrument may be advanced in a distal direction beyond the distal tip of the syringe in response to the plunger being partially and/or fully urged in a distal direction within the barrel. In some embodiments, the second end of the instrument may be fixed. In some embodiments, the second end of the instrument may be secured within the barrel. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter of the catheter assembly may be connected to a syringe.

In some embodiments, a needleless connector may be disposed between the syringe and the catheter adapter, and may connect the syringe to the catheter adapter. Still further, in some embodiments, the distal tip of the needleless connector can be coupled to a catheter adapter of the catheter assembly, and the proximal end of the needleless connector can be coupled to a syringe. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the syringe may include a connector that may be configured to couple to the proximal end of the catheter adapter and/or the proximal end of the needleless connector. In some embodiments, an interface adapter may be disposed between the syringe and the catheter adapter, and may connect the syringe to the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the second end of the instrument may be secured within the interface adapter.

In some embodiments, the cartridge may contain a liquid, such as saline or other suitable perfusion liquid. In some embodiments, the liquid may completely fill the cartridge. In some embodiments, the liquid may exit the distal opening of the syringe in response to depression of the plunger. In some embodiments, the diameter of the distal opening of the syringe may be greater than the outer diameter of the instrument. In some embodiments, in response to depression of the plunger, liquid may flow around the instrument and into and/or through the catheter assembly.

In some embodiments, the barrel may not contain a liquid, but a syringe may be used to deliver the instrument to the catheter assembly. In these and other embodiments, the distal opening of the syringe may include a septum to form a seal between the distal opening of the syringe and the instrument, and the barrel or stopper may include a vent for air to escape as the plunger is advanced.

In some embodiments, the instrument may include a probe (which may include a sensor), a light pipe for sterilization, or other suitable instrument. In some embodiments, the instrument may comprise a catheter. In these and other embodiments, the injector may include an extension tube that may extend outwardly from the distal portion of the injector. In some embodiments, the second end of the instrument may be coupled to the extension tube. In some embodiments, blood collected from the patient may flow from the second end of the apparatus into the extension tube.

In some embodiments, a guidewire may be disposed within the instrument. In some embodiments, a guidewire and the instrument are movable through the channel in response to depression of a plunger in a distal direction within the barrel. In some embodiments, the first end of the guidewire may be advanced in a distal direction in response to depression of the plunger in the distal direction within the barrel. In some embodiments, the guide feature may be moved a first distance in a distal direction and the first end of the guidewire may be moved a second distance in the distal direction in response to depression of the plunger. In some embodiments, the second distance may be greater than the first distance. In some embodiments, the second distance may be at least twice the first distance.

In some embodiments, the first end of the guidewire may be advanced in a distal direction beyond the distal tip of the syringe in response to the plunger being partially and/or fully depressed. In some embodiments, the second end of the guidewire may be fixed. For example, the second end of the guidewire may be secured within the barrel or interface adapter.

In some embodiments, the delivery device may include a support tube that may extend from and be coupled to the guide feature. In some embodiments, the guide feature may be moved a first distance in a distal direction in response to depression of the plunger, the instrument may be moved through the support tube, the first end of the instrument may be advanced a second distance in the distal direction, and the first end of the support tube may be advanced the first distance in the distal direction. In these embodiments, the second distance may be greater than the first distance.

In some embodiments, the delivery device may allow the instrument to be accessed into the vasculature of a patient through another vascular access device (e.g., a catheter assembly) that is insertable into the vasculature of the patient. In some embodiments, when the instrument is introduced into the catheter assembly by means of the delivery device, the instrument may enter the fluid path of the catheter assembly and/or the instrument may extend through the catheter assembly and into the vasculature of the patient. In some embodiments, the catheter assembly may include a catheter adapter and another catheter that may extend distally from the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the other catheter may be secured within the catheter adapter.

In some embodiments, the instrument may be coupled to the plunger and may be moved along the plunger to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the instrument may extend distally into the barrel. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the instrument may be configured to advance away from the distal tip of the syringe.

In some embodiments, the plunger may include ribs. In some embodiments, the instrument may be coupled to the rib and may be movable along the rib. In some embodiments, the plunger may include a slot. In these and other embodiments, the instrument may be disposed within the barrel and connected to an advancement tab that is movable along the slot. In some embodiments, the plunger may comprise a stopper. In some embodiments, the instrument may be moved through the stopper in response to movement of the plunger to the advanced position.

In some embodiments, the syringe may include an outer barrel, an inner barrel, an elongate body movable within the inner barrel, and a plunger head disposed within the inner barrel. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the elongate body may be coupled to the plunger head. In some embodiments, responsive to coupling of the elongate body with the plunger head, the elongate body and the plunger head can be configured to advance distally together to expel liquid from the inner barrel through the distal opening of the syringe.

In some embodiments, the instrument may extend from the distal tip of the elongate body and through the plunger head. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the instrument can be advanced in a distal direction in response to advancement of the elongate body in the distal direction within the inner barrel. In some embodiments, in response to coupling of the elongate body with the plunger head, the elongate body and the plunger head can be configured to retract together proximally to expel liquid from the inner barrel into the outer barrel.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are not restrictive of the invention. It should be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the arrangements and instrumentality shown in the drawings. It is also to be understood that the embodiments may be combined or other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various embodiments of the present invention unless otherwise required. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

By means of the technical scheme of the utility model make it become easy to use peripheral venous catheter to draw blood, when needs blood sample, do not need additional acupuncture to provide the venous access who is used for blood to collect, can alleviate patient's misery and reduce material cost like this. The solution of the present application facilitates placement of blood sample instruments (e.g., catheters and stylets) in a patient's vasculature without the need for additional needle sticks.

Drawings

Example embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

fig. 1A is a top view of an example delivery device coupled to an example catheter assembly, showing an example plunger of the delivery device in a proximal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 1A coupled to the catheter assembly of fig. 1A, showing the plunger in a proximal position, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of FIG. 1A along line 1C-1C of FIG. 1A, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 1D is another cross-sectional view of the delivery device of FIG. 1A along line 1C-1C of FIG. 1A, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 1E is a cross-sectional view of a distal tip of an example catheter of the catheter assembly of fig. 1A, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 1F is a side view of another example delivery device coupled to a catheter assembly, illustrating an example channel oriented vertically within an example barrel, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 1G is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 1F, showing a vertically oriented channel within the barrel, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 1H is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of FIG. 1F along line 1H-1H of FIG. 1F, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 2A is an upper perspective view of the delivery device of fig. 1A coupled to the catheter assembly of fig. 1A, showing the plunger in a distal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 1A coupled to the catheter assembly of fig. 1A, showing the plunger in a distal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a delivery device with an exemplary support tube showing a plunger of the delivery device in a proximal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 3A showing the plunger in a distal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 4A is a cross-sectional view of another delivery device with an exemplary instrument having a fixed end disposed in an exemplary interface adapter showing an exemplary plunger of the other delivery device in a proximal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 4A showing the plunger in a distal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 5A is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 4A with an exemplary support tube showing the plunger in a proximal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 5A showing the plunger in a distal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 6A is an upper perspective view of another example delivery device, showing an example plunger and an example instrument in proximal positions, respectively, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 6B is an upper perspective view of the delivery device of fig. 6A with exemplary locating features showing the instruments in respective partially advanced positions, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 6C is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 6A along line 6C-6C of fig. 6A according to some embodiments.

Fig. 6D is an upper perspective view of the delivery device of fig. 6A showing the instrument in an advanced position, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6E is an upper perspective view of the delivery device of FIG. 6A, showing both the instrument and the plunger in a fully advanced position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 7A is an upper perspective view of the delivery device of fig. 6A showing an exemplary alternative instrument advancement mechanism, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 7A according to some embodiments.

Fig. 7C is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 7A showing the instrument in a partially advanced position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 8A is a cross-sectional view of another example delivery device showing an example elongate body in a proximal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 8A showing the elongate body distally advanced and coupled to an exemplary plunger head, in accordance with some embodiments.

Fig. 8C is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 8A showing the elongate body coupled to the plunger head and the elongate body and plunger head advanced distally, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 8D is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 8A showing the elongate body coupled to the plunger head and the elongate body and plunger head retracted proximally according to some embodiments.

Fig. 8E is another cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 8A, showing the elongate body coupled to the plunger head, and the elongate body and plunger head retracted proximally, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 9A is a cross-sectional view of another example delivery device, showing an example plunger in an initial position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 9A showing the plunger in a partially advanced position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 9C is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 9A showing the plunger in a partially retracted position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 10A is a cross-sectional view of another example delivery device, showing an example plunger in a proximal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 10A showing the plunger in a distal position, according to some embodiments.

Fig. 10C is a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of fig. 10A, showing an exemplary extension tube integrated within the plunger according to some embodiments.

Fig. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method according to some embodiments.

Detailed Description

Referring now to fig. 1A-1B, in some embodiments, a delivery device 10 may include a syringe 12 having a barrel 14 and a plunger 16 movable within the barrel 14. 1A-1B illustrate the barrel 14 of the syringe 12 in a proximal position. In some embodiments, the delivery device 10 may include a guide feature 18, and the guide feature 18 may be disposed within the barrel 14 and/or coupled to the plunger 16. In some embodiments, the guide feature 18 may move with the plunger 16. In some embodiments, the guide feature 18 may include a generally U-shaped channel 20. In other embodiments, a portion 17 of the channel 20 may be eliminated, and the channel 20 may include a generally semi-circular shape.

In some embodiments, the distal tip of the plunger 16 may include a stopper 21, and the stopper 21 may include rubber or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the guide feature 18 may move with the plunger 16. For example, guide feature 18 may be coupled to stopper 21 and may move proximally and/or distally with plunger 16. As another example, stopper 21 may include guide feature 18, and guide feature 18 may move proximally and distally with plunger 16. In more detail, in some embodiments, the channel 20 may be disposed within the plug 21. In some embodiments, in response to proximal movement of plunger 16, guide feature 18 may be moved proximally and instrument 22 may be withdrawn or pulled proximally.

In some embodiments, the delivery device 10 may include an instrument 22, which instrument 22 may be disposed within the barrel 14 and may extend through the guide feature 18. For example, the instrument may extend through the passage 20. In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may include a probe (which may include a sensor), a light tube for sterilization, or other suitable instrument. In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may comprise a catheter. In these and other embodiments, the syringe 12 may include an extension tube 24 that may extend outwardly from a distal portion of the syringe 12, such as the barrel 14. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the barrel 14 may be proximal to the distal connector 34. In some embodiments, the barrel 14 may comprise a uniform inner diameter.

In some embodiments, the blood collection device 23 may be coupled to the extension tube 24. In some embodiments, the blood collection device 23 may comprise a vacuum tube, test tube, or syringe. In some embodiments, the blood collection device can include an adapter that can be configured to hold a test tube, for example, as shown in fig. 1A-1B.

In some embodiments, the first end 25 of the instrument 22 may be advanced in a distal direction beyond the distal opening 46 of the syringe 12 in response to the plunger 16 being partially and/or fully depressed in a distal direction into the barrel 14. In some embodiments, the second end 28 of the instrument 22 may be fixed. In some embodiments, the second end 28 of the instrument 22 may be secured within the barrel 14 or the distal connector 34. In some embodiments, the second end 28 of the instrument 22 may be coupled to the extension tube 24 such that blood collected from the patient via the catheter assembly 30 may flow from the second end 28 of the instrument 22 into the extension tube 24. In some embodiments, the first end 25 of the instrument 22 may be blunt and/or tapered.

In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 32 of the catheter assembly 30 may be coupled to the syringe 12. In some embodiments, in more detail, the distal tip 26 of the syringe 12 may include a distal connector 34, which distal connector 34 may be configured to couple to the proximal end of the catheter adapter 32. In some embodiments, distal connector 34 may comprise a luer adapter, such as a slip-on luer adapter or a threaded male luer adapter or a threaded female luer adapter, or other suitable connector.

In some embodiments, a needleless connector may connect syringe 12 to catheter adapter 32. In some embodiments, in more detail, distal connector 34 may be configured to couple to the proximal end of a needleless connector. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the needleless connector can be coupled to the proximal end of catheter adapter 32. In some embodiments, the needleless connector may include a luer adapter, such as a male or female luer adapter, or any other suitable connector. In some embodiments, the needleless connector may include a medically necessary (pro re nata) ("PRN") connector. In some embodiments, the needleless connector may include: SMARTSITE available from Becton Dickinson, Inc. (Becton, Dickinson and Company)^TMA needleless connector; Q-SYTE available from Bekton Dickinson^TMA Luer (Luer) actuated separation septum; INTERLINK available from Baxter^TMA needleless System (Needlefree System) or other suitable needleless connector.

In some embodiments, catheter assembly 30 may include a catheter 36, which may be secured within catheter adapter 32 and may extend distally from catheter adapter 32. In some embodiments, the catheter 36 may comprise a peripheral intravenous catheter, which may be indwelling in the vasculature of a patient. In some embodiments, catheter adapter 32 may be integrated with an integrated extension tube (not shown), or non-integrated.

In some embodiments, the delivery device 10 may allow the instrument 22 to be passed through a catheter 36 into the vasculature of a patient, which catheter 36 may be inserted into the vasculature of the patient. In some embodiments, when the device 22 is introduced into the catheter assembly by means of the delivery device 10, the device may enter the fluid path of the catheter assembly 30 and/or the device 22 may extend through the catheter assembly 30 and into the vasculature of the patient.

In some embodiments, catheter assembly 30 may include a hub coupled to the proximal end of catheter adapter 32 and an introducer needle (not shown) extending distally from the hub. In some embodiments, the needle hub and introducer needle may be removed from the catheter assembly 30 in response to placement of the catheter 36 within the patient vasculature, and the delivery device 10 may be coupled to the proximal end of the catheter adapter 32 after removal of the needle hub and introducer needle.

In some embodiments, the guide features 18 and the channels 20 may be positioned within the barrel 14 in various ways and angles. For example, when the delivery device 10 is positioned for insertion into a patient in conjunction with the catheter adapter 32, the channel 20 may be oriented substantially horizontally or vertically within the barrel 14.

In some embodiments, the cartridge 14 may contain a liquid 38, such as saline or other suitable perfusion liquid. In some embodiments, the liquid 38 may completely fill the cartridge 14. In some embodiments, liquid 38 may be used to perfuse all or a portion of catheter assembly 30, as will be explained in further detail.

In some embodiments, a guidewire 40 may be disposed within the instrument 22. In some embodiments, the first end 42 of the guidewire 40 may be advanced in a distal direction beyond the distal tip of the syringe 12 in response to the plunger 16 being partially and/or fully depressed. In some embodiments, the second end 44 of the guidewire 40 can be fixed. For example, the second end 44 of the guidewire 40 may be secured within the barrel 14.

In some embodiments, the guidewire 40 may be used to facilitate placement of the instrument 22 within the vasculature of a patient, which may result in less vein-related trauma. In some embodiments, the guidewire 40 may support the instrument 22 (e.g., a catheter) during advancement of the instrument 22 to prevent the instrument 22 from collapsing or bending as it is advanced through a second catheter (e.g., the catheter 36 shown in fig. 1A-1B). In some embodiments, the guidewire 40 may support the instrument 22 along all or a portion of the instrument 22 to improve structural reliability, thereby providing adequate blood collection fill time performance, maintaining acceptable blood hemolysis risk, and minimizing the risk of kinking of the instrument 22. In some embodiments, the guidewire 40 and instrument 22 may be enclosed within the delivery device 10 after blood sampling is completed. It should be understood that in some embodiments, the delivery device 10 may not include a guidewire 40.

Referring now to fig. 1C, in some embodiments, the channel 20 may contact and support an instrument 22. In some embodiments, the shape of the channel 20 may be configured to reduce the risk of kinking or bending of the instrument 22 as the instrument 22 moves through the channel. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the guidewire 40 may be smaller than the inner diameter of the instrument 22 so that fluid may easily flow through the instrument 22. In some embodiments, the curvature of the U-shape may vary depending on, for example, the bend radius of the material comprising the instrument 22. In some embodiments, the curvature of the U-shape may be configured to prevent kinking or damage to the instrument 22. In some embodiments, channel 20 may include one or more protrusions 27, such as lips or catches, which may help secure instrument 22 within channel 20.

Referring now to fig. 1D, instead of the configuration of the guide feature shown in fig. 1C (where the guide feature 18 only partially spans the lumen of the barrel 14), in certain embodiments, the guide feature 18 may span the entire lumen of the barrel 14. In more detail, in some embodiments, the guide feature 18 may contact the entire inner surface of the barrel at a cross-section of the barrel, for example as shown in fig. 1D.

Referring now to fig. 1F-1H, in some embodiments, the passage 20 may be oriented vertically within the syringe 12, such as shown in fig. 1F-1G, as opposed to being oriented horizontally, such as shown in fig. 1A-1B. In some embodiments, the guide features 18 may span the entire lumen of the barrel 14 and contact the entire inner surface of the barrel at a cross-section of the barrel, for example as shown in fig. 1H. In other embodiments, the guide feature 18 may only partially span the lumen of the barrel 14.

Referring now to fig. 2A-2B, in some embodiments, plunger 16 may be pushed from a proximal position or moved in a distal direction. In some embodiments, in response to depression of plunger 16, guide feature 18 may be moved a first distance in a distal direction, instrument 22 may be moved through channel 20, and first end 25 of instrument 22 may be advanced a second distance in a distal direction, which may be greater than the first distance. In some embodiments, since the channel 20 has a U-shape, the second distance may be at least twice the first distance ("1: 2 push-in ratio"). In some embodiments, the advancement ratio between the guide feature 18 and the first end 25 of the instrument 22 is 1: 2 (or another advancement ratio that advances a second distance greater than the first distance) and the delivery device 10 may provide reliability and structural support to the instrument 22 as it is advanced distally while also enabling the instrument 22 to achieve a longer reach.

In some embodiments, the liquid 38 may exit the distal opening 46 of the syringe 12 in response to depression of the plunger 16. In some embodiments, the distal opening 46 of the syringe 12 may have a diameter greater than the outer diameter of the instrument 12. In some embodiments, in response to depression of plunger 16, liquid 38 may flow around instrument 22 and into and/or through catheter assembly 30.

In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may include a guidewire 40 and/or a MULTI-diameter catheter, such as described in U.S. patent application No.62/660,646 entitled "MULTI-diameter catheter and associated devices and METHODS (multiple-DIAMETER CATHETER AND RELATEDDEVICES AND METHODS)" filed on 20.4.2018, which is incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, a multi-diameter catheter may allow for improved blood flow rates during blood collection. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the guidewire 40 may be disposed proximate to the transition of the multi-diameter catheter to allow fluid flow in the annular space between the outer surface of the guidewire 40 and the inner surface of the multi-diameter catheter.

In some embodiments, in response to depression of the plunger 16 in the distal direction within the barrel 14, the guidewire 40 may be moved through the channel 20 within the instrument 22, and the first end 42 of the guidewire 40 may be advanced in the distal direction. In some embodiments, in response to depression of plunger 16, guide feature 18 may be moved a first distance in the distal direction and first end 42 of guide wire 40 may be advanced a second distance in the distal direction. In some embodiments, the second distance may be greater than the first distance. In some embodiments, the second distance may be at least twice the first distance.

Referring again to fig. 1E, in some embodiments, the distal tip 48 of the catheter 36 may include one or more flow holes 50 extending through the wall of the catheter 36. In some embodiments, the liquid 38 may flow out of the flow bore 50 in response to depression of the plunger 16.

Referring now to fig. 3A-3B, in some embodiments, the delivery device 10 may include a support tube 54, which may extend from the guide feature 18. In some embodiments, the support tube 54 may be secured to the guide feature 18. In some embodiments, in response to the pushing of plunger 16, guide feature 18 may move a first distance in a distal direction, instrument 22 may move through support tube 54, and first end 56 of support tube 54 may move a first distance in a distal direction. In some embodiments, the support tube 54 may include a uniform inner diameter and/or a uniform outer diameter along all or a portion of the length of the support tube 54.

In some embodiments, when the delivery device 10 includes a support tube 54, the instrument 22 may comprise a catheter constructed of a material softer than polyimide that is less damaging to the vein wall. In these and other embodiments, the instrument 22 may include a tube constructed of one or more of polyurethane, silicon, thermoplastic elastomer ("TPE"), thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), and other suitable compliant materials.

In some embodiments, support tube 54 may include an inner diameter that is larger than an outer diameter of instrument 22 such that instrument 22 may be easily moved through support tube 54. In some embodiments, the support tube 54 may provide support for the first end 25 or free end of the instrument 22. In some embodiments, in response to the depression of plunger 16 and movement of guide feature 18 a first distance, first end 56 of support tube 54 may be advanced in a distal direction a distance equal to the first distance ("1: 1 advancement ratio"), while first end 25 of instrument 22 may be advanced a distance greater than the first distance, e.g., twice the first distance ("1: 2 advancement ratio"). In some embodiments, a different ratio of advancement of the guide feature 18 relative to the first end 25 than the ratio of advancement of the guide feature 18 relative to the support tube 54 may result in the support tube 54 not being advanced distally beyond a portion of the instrument 22 that is advanced distally through the catheter assembly 30 and into the vasculature. In these and other embodiments, the portion of the instrument 22 may have a reduced outer diameter, or the instrument 22 may have a uniform diameter along all or a portion of the length of the instrument 22.

In some embodiments, there is a 1: 2 advance ratio (or another advance ratio where the second distance is greater than the first distance) and given a 1: 1 such that the first end 25 of the instrument 22 can be moved away from the first end 56 of the support tube 54. In some embodiments, the first end 25 of the instrument 22 may exit the first end 56 of the support tube 54 to facilitate entry of the instrument 22 into a portion of the catheter assembly 30 that may be too narrow for the support tube 54 to enter.

In some embodiments, the delivery device 10 may facilitate timed or delayed withdrawal of the instrument 22 from the support tube 54. In more detail, in some embodiments, the first end 25 of the instrument 22 may be shortened such that: when the guide feature 18 is fully retracted, the first end 25 is positioned flush with or near the first end 56 of the support tube 54, as shown in fig. 3A.

Referring now to fig. 4A-4B, another delivery device 58 is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the delivery device 58 may include or correspond to the delivery device 10 discussed with reference to fig. 1-3. In more detail, in some embodiments, the delivery device 58 may include one or more features of the delivery device 10 and/or the delivery device 10 may include one or more features of the delivery device 58.

In some embodiments, the second end 28 of the instrument 22 may be secured within an interface adapter 60, which interface adapter 60 may connect the delivery device 58 to the proximal end of a needleless connector or to the proximal end of a catheter adapter (such as the catheter adapter 32 discussed with reference to fig. 1-3). In some embodiments, a needleless connector may be disposed between the interface adapter 60 and the catheter adapter, and may connect the interface adapter 60 to the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the proximal end 62 of the interface adapter 60 may be configured to couple with the distal connector 34 of the delivery device 58. In some embodiments, the proximal end 62 may include a luer adapter, such as a slip-on luer adapter or a threaded male luer adapter or a threaded female luer adapter, or other suitable connector. In some embodiments, the proximal end 62 of the interface adapter 60 is removably or non-removably coupled to the distal connector 34. In some embodiments, the distal tip 63 of the hub adapter 60 may comprise a luer adapter, such as a slip-on luer adapter or a threaded male luer adapter or a threaded female luer adapter, or another suitable connector that may be configured to couple with the proximal end of a needleless connector or the proximal end of a catheter adapter.

In some embodiments, the interface adapter 60 may include a side port 64, and the side port 64 may include a luer adapter, such as a slip-on luer adapter or a threaded male luer adapter or a threaded female luer adapter, or another suitable connector. In some embodiments, the delivery device 58 may include a first cover and/or a second cover (not shown). In some embodiments, with the plunger 16 in the proximal position and the instrument 22 fully contained within the syringe 12, a first cap may couple and seal the distal opening 46 of the syringe 12. In some embodiments in which the first end of the instrument 22 is secured within the interface adapter 60, a first cap may couple to and seal the distal tip of the interface adapter 60. In some embodiments, a second cap may seal the side port 64. For example, in some embodiments, the first cap is removable to allow the delivery device 58 to be connected to the interface adapter 60, and/or the second cap is removable to allow the blood collection device to be coupled with the side port 64.

In some embodiments, a blood collection device (e.g., blood collection device 23 of fig. 1A-1B and 2A-2B) may be coupled to the luer adapter of side port 64 to collect blood from a patient. In some embodiments, the blood collection device may comprise a syringe, a blood collection tube, or other suitable device. In some embodiments, the extension tube 24 may be coupled to the side port 64 and may extend from the side port 64. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the extension tube 24 may be coupled to a blood collection device.

In some embodiments, the side port 64 may include a lumen 66 capable of being sealed off from a lumen 68 of the interface adapter 60, whereby blood or other fluids may be prevented from leaking into the lumen 68. In some embodiments, the lumen 66 may be isolated from the lumen 68 by a wall 70, and the second end 28 of the instrument 22 and/or the second end 44 of the guidewire 40 (not shown in fig. 4A-4B) may extend through the lumen 68. In some embodiments, a guidewire 40, such as that shown in fig. 1A-1C and 2A-2B, may be disposed within the instrument 22 and may operate in a manner similar to that discussed with reference to fig. 1A-1C and 2A-2B.

Referring now to fig. 5A-5B, in some embodiments, the delivery device 58 may include a support tube 54, which may extend from the guide feature 18. In some embodiments, the support tube 54 may be secured to the guide feature 18. In some embodiments, in response to depression of plunger 16, e.g., as shown in fig. 5B, guide feature 18 may be moved a first distance in a distal direction, instrument 22 may be moved through support tube 54, and first end 56 of support tube 54 may be advanced the first distance in a distal direction. In some embodiments, the support tube 54 may include a uniform inner diameter and/or a uniform outer diameter along all or a portion of the length of the support tube 54.

Referring now to fig. 6A-6E, another exemplary delivery device 72 is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the delivery device 72 may include or correspond to the delivery device 10 discussed with reference to fig. 1-3 and/or the delivery device 58 discussed with reference to fig. 4-5. In more detail, in some embodiments, the delivery device 72 may include one or more features of the delivery device 10 and/or the delivery device 58. In some embodiments, delivery device 10 and/or delivery device 58 may include one or more features of delivery device 72.

In some embodiments, instrument 22 may be coupled to plunger 16 and may be moved in a distal direction along plunger 16 to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may also be moved proximally along the plunger 16 to withdraw the instrument 22. In these and other embodiments, the instrument 22 may be moved independently of the plunger. In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may extend distally into the barrel 14. In some embodiments, the distal tip 74 of the instrument 22 can be configured to be advanced distally of the distal opening 46 of the syringe 12, as shown, for example, in fig. 6D-6E.

In some embodiments, the plunger 16 may include at least one rib 76. In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may be coupled to the rib 76 and may be movable along the rib 76. In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may be coupled to the rib 76 by an advancement tab 81. The advancement tab 81 may extend over the rib 76, for example, as shown in fig. 6C. In some embodiments, the plunger 16 may include a stopper 78, and the stopper 78 may include rubber or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may be moved through the stopper 78 in response to movement of the plunger 16 toward the advanced position.

As shown in fig. 6B, in some embodiments, the positioning feature 80 can include a proximal end coupled to an advancement tab 81 that can be coupled to the instrument 22 and configured to move the instrument 22 proximally and/or distally. In some embodiments, the locating features 80 may be rigid. In some embodiments, the distal tip 82 of the locating feature 80 may contact an upper surface of the syringe 12 to prevent distal movement of the advancement tab 81 and instrument 22. In some embodiments, the distal tip 82 of the locating feature 80 is free floating and can contact the upper surface of the syringe 12 in response to movement of the advancement tab 81 and instrument 22 in the distal direction. In some embodiments, the distal tip 82 of the locating feature 80 may be attached or selectively attached to the syringe 12. In some embodiments, the locating features 80 may fix the position of the instrument 22 when the delivery device 72 is packaged and/or before use.

In some embodiments, the liquid 38 may flow out of the distal opening 46 of the syringe 12 in response to depression of the plunger 16. In some embodiments, the distal end 26 of the syringe 12 may include a luer adapter, such as a slip-on luer adapter or a threaded male luer adapter or a threaded female luer adapter, or other suitable connector. In some embodiments, syringe 12 may be coupled to a proximal end of catheter adapter 32 of catheter assembly 30 (e.g., as shown in fig. 1A-1B and 2A-2B), and instrument 22 may be advanced in a distal direction to place instrument 22 in a fluid path of catheter assembly 30 and/or advanced beyond distal tip 48 of catheter 36.

In some embodiments, a method of operating the delivery device 72 may include connecting the delivery device 72 to a proximal end of a catheter adapter 32, which catheter adapter 32 may include an indwelling catheter 36. Then, in some embodiments, the instrument 22 may be advanced in a distal direction. In some embodiments, plunger 16 may be depressed such that liquid 38 flows around instrument 22 and through catheter 36 to perfuse catheter 36 and catheter assembly 30.

In some embodiments, the barrel 14 and/or plunger 16 may include one or more markings 19 that may provide a visual and/or tactile indication to a user of the position of the instrument. In more detail, in some embodiments, the markings 19 may indicate the distance the instrument 22 is advanced and/or retracted. In some embodiments, the barrel 14 and/or the plunger 16 may be transparent. It should be understood that other embodiments of the barrel 14 and/or the plunger 16 may include indicia.

Referring now to fig. 7A-7C, in some embodiments, the plunger 16 of the delivery device 72 may include a slot 84. In these and other embodiments, the instrument 22 may be disposed within the barrel 14 and connected to an advancement tab 86 that is movable along the slot 84. In some embodiments, the advancement tab 86 can be coupled to the instrument 22 and configured to move the instrument 22 proximally and/or distally.

Referring now to fig. 8A-8E, another exemplary delivery device 88 is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the delivery device 88 may include or correspond to one or more of the following: the delivery device 10 discussed with reference to fig. 1-3; the transport device 58 discussed with reference to fig. 4-5; and a conveyor 72 as discussed with reference to fig. 6-7. In more detail, in some embodiments, the delivery device 88 can include features of one or more of the following: conveyor 10, conveyor 58, and conveyor 72. In some embodiments, one or more of the following may include one or more features of the delivery device 88: conveyor 10, conveyor 58, and conveyor 72.

In some embodiments, the syringe 12 can include an outer barrel 90, an inner barrel 92, an elongate body 94 movable within the inner barrel 92, and a plunger head 96 disposed within the inner barrel 92. In some embodiments, the elongate body 94 may be advanced in a distal direction from a proximal position, such as shown in fig. 8A, and a distal tip 98 of the elongate body 94 may be coupled to the plunger head 96, such as shown in fig. 8B. In some embodiments, some of the liquid 38 can be expelled from the inner barrel 92 in response to the elongate body 94 being advanced in a distal direction from a proximal position to couple to the plunger head 96. In some embodiments, in response to coupling of the elongate body 94 with the plunger head 96, the elongate body 94 and the plunger head 96 can be configured to advance distally together to expel the liquid 38 from the inner barrel 92 through the distal opening 46 of the syringe 12, such as shown in fig. 8C. In some embodiments, when the elongate body 94 and the plunger head 96 are coupled together, they may form an integral plunger 16.

In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may extend from a distal tip 98 of the elongate body 94 and through the plunger head 96. In some embodiments, the distal tip 74 of the instrument 22 may be advanced in a distal direction in response to advancement of the elongate body 94 in the distal direction within the inner barrel 92. In some embodiments, responsive to coupling of the elongate body 94 with the plunger head 96, the elongate body 94 and the plunger head 96 may be configured to be withdrawn proximally together to expel the liquid 38 from the inner barrel 92 into the outer barrel 90, for example as shown in fig. 8D. In some embodiments, the elongated body 94 may be coupled to the plunger head 96 in various ways, such as a snap fit, an interference fit, a threaded connection, using a barbed fitting, and the like, such as the one shown in fig. 8A-8D using barbs.

In some embodiments, one or more one-way valves 100 can be disposed between the inner barrel 92 and the outer barrel 90, and the liquid 38 can flow from the inner barrel 92 to the outer barrel 90 through the one-way valves in response to the withdrawal of the connected elongate body 94 and plunger head 96. In some embodiments, the distal end of the inner barrel 92 and/or the distal end of the outer barrel 90 can include a septum 93. In some embodiments, the delivery device 88 may include a vent to prevent a vacuum from being formed when the plunger is withdrawn proximally. In some embodiments, a vent member can provide venting to a portion of the inner barrel 92 distal to the plunger head 96 and prevent a vacuum from forming when the elongate body 94 and the plunger head 96 are withdrawn proximally.

In some embodiments, the proximal end of the outer barrel 90 can include a seal 97, the seal 97 being adjacent to an opening in the outer barrel 90 through which the elongate body 94 can extend. In some embodiments, seal 97 can prevent fluid from leaking from the proximal end of outer barrel 90.

In some embodiments, the outer barrel 90 can comprise multiple components that can be coupled together. In more detail, in some embodiments, the outer barrel 90 can include a first piece and a second piece that can be coupled together by welding, adhesive connection, pinning, press fit, or other suitable means. In some embodiments, the outer cartridge 90 may be integrally formed as a single unit.

In some embodiments, the inner barrel 92 can be secured within the outer barrel 90 via one or more retention features. Still further, in some embodiments, one or more retention features of the inner barrel 92 can engage one or more retention features of the outer barrel 90 in a mechanically-fit (e.g., snap-fit, press-fit, or other suitable fit) engagement. In some embodiments, the retention features can include ribs 99 that can extend from the inner barrel 92 to the outer barrel 90. Exemplary ribs 99 are shown in fig. 8A-8D. In some embodiments, the ribs 99 may be rigid or semi-rigid. In some embodiments, the retention feature may be annular and may extend around the outer circumference of the inner barrel 92. In these and other embodiments, the retention features may include apertures and/or valves that may open in response to fluid pressure, allowing fluid to pass. In some embodiments, the fluid may flow around the retention feature.

As mentioned, in some embodiments, the elongated body 94 may be coupled to the plunger head 96 in various ways (e.g., snap fit, interference fit, threaded connection, joint with barbs, etc.). Fig. 8E illustrates that both the elongate body 94 and the plunger head 96 each include one or more threads, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the elongated body 94 is threaded to the plunger head 96. In some embodiments, after the user threadably connects the elongate body 94 to the plunger head 96, the elongate body 94 and the plunger head 96 may be advanced distally together to expel the liquid 38 from the inner barrel 92 through the distal opening 46 of the syringe 12 and advance the instrument 22. In some embodiments, in response to the threaded connection of the elongate body 94 to the plunger head 96, the elongate body 94 and the plunger head 96 can be configured to retract proximally together to expel the liquid 38 from the inner barrel 92 into the outer barrel 90 and retract the instrument 22. In some embodiments, in response to the elongate body 94 and plunger head 96 being partially or fully retracted in the proximal direction, the user may unscrew the elongate body 94 and unscrew it from the piston head 96, so that the elongate body 94 and instrument 22 may be removed from the delivery device 88.

Referring now to fig. 9A-9C, another delivery device 102 is shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the delivery device 102 may include or correspond to one or more of the following: the delivery device 10 discussed with reference to fig. 1-3; the transport device 58 discussed with reference to fig. 4-5; the transport device 72 discussed with reference to fig. 6-7; and a conveyor 88 as discussed with reference to fig. 8. In more detail, in some embodiments, the delivery device 102 can include one or more features of one or more of: conveyor 10, conveyor 58, conveyor 72, and conveyor 88. In some embodiments, one or more of the following may include one or more features of the delivery device 102: conveyor 10, conveyor 58, conveyor 72, and conveyor 88.

In some embodiments, the syringe 12 of the delivery device 102 may include: an outer tub 104; an inner barrel 106 containing the liquid 38 and movable within the outer barrel 104 between a proximal position and a distal position; a plunger 16 which can be pushed and pressed in the inner cylinder; and a first valve 108 disposed between the outer cartridge 104 and the inner cartridge 106. In some embodiments, the inner cartridge 106 can be prefilled with the liquid 38, for example, as shown in FIG. 9A. Fig. 9A illustrates the conveyor 102 in an initial position or the conveyor 102 when removed from a package according to some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the plunger 16 can include a second valve 110, the second valve 110 configured to allow the liquid 38 to flow in a distal direction from the inner barrel 106 to the outer barrel 104 in response to movement of the plunger 16 within the inner barrel 106, such as shown in fig. 9B. In some embodiments, for example, as shown in fig. 9B, the first valve 108 can be closed when the inner barrel 106 is in the distal position and during depression of the plunger 16. In some embodiments, in response to withdrawal of the plunger 16 in the proximal direction, the first valve 108 may open and the liquid 38 may flow through the distal opening 46 of the syringe 12, e.g., as shown in fig. 9C. In some embodiments, the delivery device 102 may include a plurality of first valves 108 and/or a plurality of second valves 110, for example, as shown in fig. 9A.

In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may extend through the plunger 16. In some embodiments, the distal tip 74 of the instrument 22 may be advanced in a distal direction in response to depression of the plunger 16. In some embodiments, the distal tip 26 of the syringe 12 may include a distal connector 34, such as a slip-on luer adapter or a threaded male luer adapter or a threaded female luer adapter, or another suitable connector. In some embodiments, the distal tip 74 of the instrument 22 may be blunt and/or tapered. In some embodiments, the distal connector 34 may be configured to couple to the proximal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, syringe 12 may be coupled to a proximal end of catheter adapter 32 of catheter assembly 30 (e.g., shown in fig. 1A-1B and 2A-2B), and plunger 16 may be pushed to advance instrument 22 in a distal direction such that instrument 22 is in the fluid path of catheter assembly 30 and/or advanced beyond distal tip 48 of catheter 36.

In some embodiments, a method of operating the delivery device 102 may include coupling the delivery device 102 to the proximal end of the catheter adapter 32. In some embodiments, the plunger 16 can be pushed to advance the instrument 22 in a distal direction, which can also cause the liquid 38 to flow from the inner barrel 106 through the first valve 108 and into the outer barrel 104. In some embodiments, pushing the plunger 16 can also move the inner barrel 106 to the distal position, thereby closing the second valve 110. In some embodiments, the plunger 16 may then be retracted or moved proximally, thereby at least partially retracting the instrument 22 in the proximal direction. In some embodiments, proximal movement of the plunger 16 can also move the inner barrel 106 proximally, thereby opening the second valve 110. In some embodiments, as the plunger moves proximally, the liquid 38 within the outer barrel 104 may exit the distal opening of the syringe 12 and may prime the catheter assembly 30.

In some embodiments, the inner surface of the outer barrel 104 can include a stop or stop that can prevent the inner barrel 106 from moving proximally beyond the proximal position. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the barrel 104 can include a seal 97 proximate an opening in the barrel 104 through which the plunger 16 can extend. In some embodiments, seal 97 can prevent fluid from leaking out of the proximal end of outer barrel 194.

In some embodiments, the inner barrel 106 can be secured within the outer barrel 104 by way of one or more retention features. In more detail, in some embodiments, the one or more retention features of the inner barrel 106 can engage the one or more retention features of the outer barrel 104 with a mechanical fit (e.g., a snap fit, a press fit, or other suitable fit). In some embodiments, the retention features can include one or more ribs 99 (shown, for example, in fig. 8A-8D) that can extend from the inner barrel 106 to the outer barrel 104. In some embodiments, the ribs 99 may be rigid or semi-rigid. In some embodiments, the retention feature can be annular and can extend around the outer circumference of the inner barrel 106. In these and other embodiments, the retention features may include apertures and/or valves that may open in response to fluid pressure, allowing fluid to pass. In some embodiments, the fluid may flow around the retention feature.

In some embodiments, the proximal end of the inner barrel 106 can include one or more retention features 111. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the inner barrel 106 can include a single annular retention feature 111. In some embodiments, retention feature 111 may be in contact with plunger 16 to prevent proximal movement of plunger 16. In some embodiments, the distal opening 46 may include an anti-reflux valve, which may prevent blood from flowing back into the delivery device 102.

10A-10B, another example delivery device 112 is illustrated, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the delivery device 112 may include or correspond to one or more of the following: the delivery device 10 discussed with reference to fig. 1-3; the transport device 58 discussed with reference to fig. 4-5; the transport device 72 discussed with reference to fig. 6-7; the delivery device 88 discussed with reference to fig. 8; and a delivery device 102 as discussed with reference to fig. 9. In more detail, in some embodiments, the delivery device 112 may include one or more features of one or more of: a conveying device 10; a conveying device 58; a conveying device 72; a conveyor 88 and a conveyor 102. In some embodiments, one or more of the following may include one or more features of the delivery device 112: a conveying device 10; a conveying device 58; a conveying device 72; a conveyor 88 and a conveyor 102.

In some embodiments, the plunger 16 may include a connector 114. In some embodiments, the connector 114 may include a luer adapter, such as a slip-on luer adapter or a threaded male luer adapter or a threaded female luer adapter, or another suitable connector. In some embodiments, a channel 115 may extend from connector 114 through the distal tip of plunger 16. In some embodiments, the connector 114 may be disposed within the plunger 16. In some embodiments, connector 114 may be disposed distal to proximal end 116 of piston 16.

In some embodiments, the instrument 22 may extend from the distal tip 118 of the plunger 16. In some embodiments, channel 115 may provide a fluid path for fluid infusion and/or blood withdrawal. In some embodiments, a blood collection device or a fluid infusion device may be coupled to the connector 114. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the extension tube may be coupled to the connector 114. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the extension tube 120 may be coupled to a blood collection or infusion device. In some embodiments, the extension tube 120 may be in fluid communication with the channel 115 to provide a fluid path for fluid infusion and/or blood withdrawal.

In some embodiments, the distal tip 26 of the syringe 12 may include a distal connector 34, such as a slip-on luer adapter or a threaded male luer adapter or a threaded female luer adapter, or another suitable connector. In some embodiments, the distal connector 34 may be configured to couple to the proximal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, syringe 12 may be coupled to a proximal end of catheter adapter 32 of catheter assembly 30 (e.g., shown in fig. 1A-1B and 2A-2B), and plunger 16 may be pushed to advance instrument 22 in a distal direction such that instrument 22 is in the fluid path of catheter assembly 30 and/or advanced beyond distal tip 48 of catheter 36.

Referring now to fig. 10C, in some embodiments, the distal tip of the extension tube 120 may be integrated into the plunger 16. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the extension tube 120 may be coupled to a blood collection set or an infusion set. In some embodiments, the extension tube 120 may be in fluid communication with the channel 115 to provide a fluid path for fluid infusion and/or blood withdrawal.

Referring now to FIG. 11, an example method 100 is shown, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the method 100 may begin at block 102. In block 102, a delivery device may be coupled to a catheter adapter. The delivery device may comprise or correspond to the delivery device shown in one or more of figures 1-10. In some embodiments, the delivery device may be coupled to the catheter adapter via a needleless connector and/or an interface connector (e.g., interface adapter 60 of fig. 4A-4B).

In some embodiments, block 102 may be followed by block 104. At block 104, the catheter adapter may be perfused with a liquid, such as saline or another suitable perfusion fluid, while the instrument of the delivery device is advanced distally. In some embodiments, the instrument of the delivery device may be advanced distally into the vasculature of the patient. The instrument may include or correspond to the instrument 22 shown in one or more of fig. 1-10. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter may be perfused with a liquid and the instrument may be advanced distally by pushing on a plunger of the delivery device.

In some embodiments, block 104 may be followed by block 106. In block 106, a blood sample may be collected using a delivery device. In some embodiments, the blood sample may be collected in a blood collection device coupled to a delivery device.

In some embodiments, block 106 may be followed by block 108. In block 108, the instrument may be withdrawn proximally. In some embodiments, the distal tip of the instrument may be disposed within the delivery device or interface adapter when the instrument is proximally withdrawn.

In some embodiments, block 108 may be followed by block 110. In block 110, the delivery device may be decoupled from the catheter adapter. Although illustrated as discrete blocks, the blocks of the method 100 may be divided into additional blocks, combined into fewer blocks, or eliminated, depending on the desired implementation. For example, in some embodiments, block 108 may be omitted.

All examples and conditional language recited herein are intended for pedagogical purposes to aid the reader in understanding the concepts of the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventor to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it should be understood that the various changes, substitutions, and alterations could be made hereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (20)

1. A delivery device for delivering an instrument into a catheter assembly, the delivery device comprising:

a syringe having a barrel and a plunger movable in the barrel;

a guide feature disposed within the barrel and movable with the plunger, wherein the guide feature comprises a channel that is generally U-shaped; and

an instrument disposed within the barrel and extending through the channel, wherein, in response to depression of the plunger, the guide feature moves in a distal direction, the instrument moves through the channel, and a first end of the instrument advances in a distal direction, wherein a second end of the instrument is fixed.

2. The delivery device of claim 1, wherein the instrument comprises a catheter or a stylet.

3. The delivery device of claim 1, wherein the barrel contains a liquid therein, wherein the liquid exits the distal opening of the syringe in response to the plunger being pushed, wherein the distal opening of the syringe has a diameter greater than an outer diameter of the device.

4. The delivery device of claim 1, wherein the second end of the instrument is secured within the barrel.

5. The delivery device of claim 1, further comprising an interface adapter coupled to the syringe, wherein the second end of the instrument is secured within the interface adapter.

6. The delivery device of claim 1, wherein in response to the plunger being depressed, the guide feature moves in a distal direction a first distance and the first end of the instrument advances in a distal direction a second distance, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance.

7. The delivery device of claim 1, wherein the first end of the instrument is advanced in a distal direction beyond the distal tip of the syringe in response to the plunger being partially or fully depressed.

8. The delivery device for delivering a device into a catheter assembly of claim 1, wherein the syringe further comprises an extension tube extending outwardly from a distal portion of the syringe, wherein the second end of the device is coupled to the extension tube, wherein the device comprises a catheter.

9. The delivery device of claim 1, wherein the instrument comprises a catheter and the instrument further comprises a guidewire disposed within the catheter, wherein in response to the pushing of the plunger, the guidewire and the catheter move through the channel and a first end of the guidewire advances in a distal direction, wherein a second end of the guidewire is fixed.

10. The delivery device for delivering a device into a catheter assembly of claim 9, wherein the first end of the guidewire is advanced in a distal direction beyond the distal tip of the syringe in response to the plunger being partially or fully depressed.

11. The delivery device for delivering an instrument into a catheter assembly of claim 9, wherein in response to depression of the plunger, the guide feature moves in a distal direction a first distance and the first end of the guidewire advances in a distal direction a second distance, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance.

12. The delivery device of claim 1, further comprising a support tube extending from and connected to the guide feature, wherein, in response to the pushing of the plunger, the guide feature moves a first distance in a distal direction, the instrument moves through the support tube, and a first end of the support tube advances the first distance in a distal direction.

13. A delivery device for delivering an instrument into a catheter assembly, the delivery device comprising:

a syringe having a barrel and a plunger movable in the barrel;

an instrument coupled to the plunger and movable along the plunger to an advanced position, wherein the instrument extends distally into the barrel, wherein a distal tip of the instrument is configured to be advanced distally of a distal tip of the syringe.

14. The delivery device for delivering an instrument into a catheter assembly of claim 13, wherein the plunger includes a rib, wherein the instrument is coupled to and movable along the rib.

15. The delivery device of claim 13, wherein the plunger includes a slot, wherein the instrument is disposed within the barrel and is coupled to an advancement tab movable along the slot.

16. The delivery device of claim 13, wherein the plunger includes a stopper, wherein the instrument moves through the stopper in response to movement of the plunger toward the advanced position.

17. The delivery device of claim 13, wherein the barrel contains a liquid, wherein the liquid exits the distal opening of the syringe in response to the plunger pushing, wherein the distal opening of the syringe has a diameter greater than an outer diameter of the device.

18. A delivery device for delivering an instrument into a catheter assembly, the delivery device comprising:

a syringe, the syringe comprising: an outer cylinder; an inner barrel; an elongated body movable within the inner barrel; and a plunger head disposed within the inner barrel, wherein a distal tip of the syringe includes a distal opening and a distal connector configured to couple to a proximal end of a catheter adapter, wherein the distal tip of the elongate body is coupled to the plunger head in response to distal advancement of the elongate body within the inner barrel, wherein the elongate body and the plunger head are configured to advance distally together to expel liquid from the inner barrel through the distal opening in response to coupling of the elongate body to the plunger head; and

an instrument extending from the distal tip of the elongate body and through the plunger head, wherein the distal tip of the instrument is advanced in a distal direction in response to the elongate body being advanced in the distal direction within the inner barrel.

19. The delivery device of claim 18, wherein the instrument comprises a catheter or a stylet.

20. The delivery device for delivering a device into a catheter assembly of claim 18, wherein, in response to coupling of the elongate body and the plunger head, the elongate body and the plunger head are further configured to retract proximally together to expel liquid from the inner barrel into the outer barrel.

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