WO2023218342A1 - Device for introducing a catheter or a probe and catheter or probe introducing system - Google Patents

Device for introducing a catheter or a probe and catheter or probe introducing system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023218342A1
WO2023218342A1 PCT/IB2023/054784 IB2023054784W WO2023218342A1 WO 2023218342 A1 WO2023218342 A1 WO 2023218342A1 IB 2023054784 W IB2023054784 W IB 2023054784W WO 2023218342 A1 WO2023218342 A1 WO 2023218342A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
catheter
probe
eversible
inflatable
flexible sleeve
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2023/054784
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2023218342A4 (en
Inventor
José Carlos MESTRE MARQUES PALMEIRIM
Original Assignee
Mestre Marques Palmeirim Jose Carlos
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
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Application filed by Mestre Marques Palmeirim Jose Carlos filed Critical Mestre Marques Palmeirim Jose Carlos
Publication of WO2023218342A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023218342A1/en
Publication of WO2023218342A4 publication Critical patent/WO2023218342A4/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00—Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/01—Introducing, guiding, advancing, emplacing or holding catheters
    • A61M25/0105—Steering means as part of the catheter or advancing means; Markers for positioning
    • A61M25/0119—Eversible catheters
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00—Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/01—Introducing, guiding, advancing, emplacing or holding catheters
    • A61M25/06—Body-piercing guide needles or the like
    • A61M25/0662—Guide tubes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00—Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/10—Balloon catheters
    • A61M25/1018—Balloon inflating or inflation-control devices

Definitions

  • the present application refers to devices for introducing catheters or probes, which are medical devices that are primarily used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in the healthcare industry, and may also have some industrial applications.
  • the present invention refers in a first aspect to a device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4) comprising an injector casing tube (1), a pressurizing fluid inlet (2), an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
  • a first end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), and a second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to a rear portion of a head of a catheter or probe (4) when the catheter or probe (4) is arranged along the said injector casing tube (1), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to pull the head of the catheter or probe (4) and subsequently envelop a flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) during the eversion of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
  • said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is connected to said injector casing tube (1).
  • the present invention refers in a second aspect to a catheter or a probe introducing system comprising a device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), according to the first aspect, and a catheter or a probe (4); and wherein
  • said catheter or a probe (4) comprises a head connected to a flexible tube, and is arranged along the said injector casing tube (1); and wherein
  • a first end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), and a second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a rear portion of the head of the catheter or probe (4), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to pull the head of the catheter or probe (4) and subsequently envelop the flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) during the eversion of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
  • said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is connected to said injector casing tube (1).
  • the tip of the inverted finger is connected to a loose object inside the glove (such as a probe or a catheter), when the glove is inflated, that object will also be pulled along the entire length of the inside of the finger, following the movement of its tip towards the exterior.
  • a loose object inside the glove such as a probe or a catheter
  • the finger of the glove advances through the interior of the tube and follows its sinuosities without the need to be guided (in a self-contouring manner) and without friction (which only happens between the object and the inside of the finger of the glove).
  • the device for introducing a catheter or a probe of the present invention comprises an injector casing tube, which fixes one end of an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve inverted towards its interior, which, in turn, envelops a probe or a catheter to which it is connected at its other end when said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve is everted or partially everted, functioning in a similar way to the inverted finger of the glove when inflated by a fluid, as exemplified in . Therefore, said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve pulls the catheter or the probe up to the injector outlet, from where gradually envelops it, as long as said sleeve is everted from the injector casing tube.
  • the device for introducing a catheter or a probe of the present invention is configured to introduce said catheter or probe from a single access pulling it from the inside in a self-contouring and frictionless way in such a way that nothing is impelled from outside but pulled from within always in the adequate directions at each stage of its path.
  • the device of the present invention is effective in following sinuosities or getting around obstacles, including widening narrowings, in a self-contouring way, since it does not need to be guided, without friction with the environment, nor dragging substances and microorganisms.
  • the device for introducing a catheter or a probe of the present invention has the additional advantage of being able to be used with catheters with thinner walls, catheters with less hard heads, and heads with larger holes since the introduction of the catheter does not depend on auxiliary means that push the catheters from outside to inside. Furthermore, the use of more flexible catheters results in more comfort for the user.
  • probes or catheters So that the pressurizing fluid does not escape through its interior, probes or catheters have the rear end blocked which, remaining on the outside after introduction, can then simply be cut.
  • the probe or catheter is pulled from inside makes it possible to reduce its rigidity, including that of the head, necessary for its progression if pushed from the outside, as well as follow sinuosities and circumvent obstacles in a self-contouring manner (without the need to be guided).
  • This device for introducing a catheter or a probe has the ability to follow sinuosities and circumvent obstacles usually faced during the introduction of probes or catheters.
  • This advantage of this device for introducing a catheter or a probe often means the difference between the success or failure of the act, or between an innocuous procedure and an injurious and painful intervention.
  • a further advantage is that the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve keeps unfolding along the environment through which it moves, without dragging and, consequently, without rubbing it. As the probe or catheter is pulled along the inside of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve, it also does not rub the environment it travels through (but only the inside of the inflated sleeve).
  • the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve will also be able to expand the environment through which it advances, up to the limit of its diameter, as it will be made of flexible material and not too elastic (like the film of an ordinary plastic bag).
  • the head of the probe or catheter can even have more functional shapes than the existing ones, namely being shorter and having more or larger openings in the case of catheters, even at the expense of its rigidity, thus unnecessary.
  • a lower rigidity of the entire probe or catheter makes it less aggressive to the environment through which it moves and a more comfortable foreign presence.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a view of the device for introducing a catheter or a probe in expanded mode.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve inserted along the inner space of said injector casing tube when the device for introducing a catheter or a probe is in retracted mode, namely in a pre-use situation.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve collapsed and enveloping a head of a catheter or a probe inside an injector casing tube, wherein said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve pulls the catheter or probe by its head along the injector casing tube as the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve is being everted.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a longitudinal section with distribution of forces generated by the pressuring fluid in the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates the beginning of the expelling an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein about 10 mm of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve are projected.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the expelling of about 25% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein a transparent injector casing tube allows the view of the catheter or probe progression.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the expelling of about 43% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein a transparent injector casing tube allows the view of the catheter or probe approach to the injector outlet.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the expelling of about 70% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein a transparent injector casing tube allows the view of a portion of the catheter or probe being projected from the injector casing tube while being pulled by the inflated eversible flexible sleeve.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates the expelling of about 95% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein a head of the catheter or probe is about to be projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the full expelling of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, wherein a head of the catheter or probe is projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe in fully expanded mode.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a catheter with a threaded rear end and respective obturator.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a cap connected to a front portion of an injector casing tube when the device for introducing a catheter or a probe is in retracted mode.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a cap connected to a first end of an adapter for different diameters, and a second end of said adapter for different diameters is connected to a front portion of an injector casing tube when the device for introducing a catheter or a probe is in retracted mode.
  • the present invention refers to a device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4) comprising an injector casing tube (1), a pressurizing fluid inlet (2), and an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
  • a first end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), and a second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to a rear portion of a head of a catheter or probe (4) when the catheter or probe (4) is arranged along the said injector casing tube (1), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to pull the head of the catheter or probe (4) and subsequently envelop a flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) during the eversion of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
  • said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is connected to said injector casing tube (1).
  • said eversible inflatable flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be inserted along the inner space of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in its pre-use full retracted mode;
  • the exterior surface of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to envelop said head of the catheter or probe (4) inside said injector casing tube (1) and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is collapsed between the said head of the catheter or probe (4) and the outlet end of said injector casing tube (1) or between the said head of the catheter or probe (4) and the everted front of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) when said device is, respectively, in its fully or partially retracted mode.
  • the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), preferably connected to a portion of an interior wall of said injector casing tube (1) or to an exterior wall of said injector casing tube (1).
  • the second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to a rear portion of the head of the catheter or probe (4) in a portion of the head behind the whole set of components of the head of the catheter or probe (4) that are going to be exposed to the body of the user during the regular functioning of said catheter or probe (4) or that are intended to be exposed in the outside of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) in its fully expanded mode.
  • said components one can recite orifices or a balloon anchoring arranged in the head, wherein said components are comprised, for example, in urethral catheters.
  • the head of the catheter or probe (4) comprises at least a component selected from the group consisting of a hole or an anchoring balloon.
  • the head of the catheter or probe (4) can also comprise other components that are intended to be exposed outside of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) in its fully expanded mode considering the specific purposes of the catheter or probe (4).
  • the second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) comprises a ring, which is not connected to the catheter or probe (4), wherein said ring has an internal diameter just slightly larger than that of the catheter flexible tube, in order to prevent the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) from progressing when colliding with an anchoring balloon or with a deliberate slight enlargement of the catheter or probe (4) head before the holes arranged in the head, to allow the removal of the sleeve from the outside, when this is convenient.
  • a transparent injector casing tube (1) allows the observation a long portion of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) having its interior wall directed towards the interior wall of the injector casing tube (1), wherein the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is collapsed and envelops a head of a catheter or a probe (4) inside an injector casing tube (1).
  • the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is collapsed and envelops a head of a catheter or a probe (4) inside an injector casing tube (1).
  • only the head of the catheter or probe (4) is enveloped by the exterior surface of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) inside said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in partial or full retracted mode.
  • the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) starts moving in the injector casing tube (1) toward its front portion, beyond which it enters in the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
  • said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) pulls the catheter or probe (4) by its head along the injector casing tube (1) as the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is being everted.
  • said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) starts leaving the injector casing tube (1) before the head of the catheter or probe (4), which is pulled by the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
  • a diameter maximizing centrifugal forces (101) increases the diameter of the already inflated portion of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
  • a diameter minimizing centripetal forces (102) decreases the diameter of the portion of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) which is still collapsed.
  • the length of the injector casing tube (1) is equal or superior to the sum of the length of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the catheter or probe (4).
  • the length of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the catheter or probe (4) have substantially the same length.
  • the rear portion of the injector casing tube (1) is closed in order to avoid a loss of pressurizing fluid.
  • the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) comprises a valve.
  • the catheter or probe (4) is arranged at the rear internal portion of the injector casing tube (1), and the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is arranged along the remaining portion of the injector casing tube (1) until its frontal end, wherein the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is collapsed and envelops the head of the catheter or probe (4).
  • the said head of the catheter or probe (4) is arranged outside said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
  • the head of the catheter or probe (4) including its holes and anchoring balloons, are arranged outside said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
  • the progression velocity of the said head of the catheter or probe (4) is substantially the double of the progression velocity of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
  • the said head of the catheter or probe (4) went through substantially the portion of the injector casing tube (1), which was occupied by the said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) in its pre-use full retracted mode, and the overall length of the said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) after it had been fully everted. Therefore, the said head of the catheter or probe (4) went through substantially two times the length of the said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the beginning of the expelling of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein about 10 mm of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) are projected from the injector casing tube (1).
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the expelling of about 25% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a transparent injector casing tube (1) allows the view of the catheter or probe (4) progression, while it is inside the injector casing tube (1).
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the expelling of about 43% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a transparent injector casing tube (1) allows the view of the catheter or probe (4) approach to the injector outlet.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the expelling of about 70% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a transparent injector casing tube (1) allows the view of a portion of the catheter or probe (4) being projected from the injector casing tube while being pulled by the inflated flexible sleeve through its interior.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the expelling of about 95% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a head of the catheter or probe (4) is about to be projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4).
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the full expelling of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a head of the catheter or probe (4) is projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) in fully expanded mode.
  • said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be expelled by eversion from the outlet of said injector casing tube (1) when a pressurizing fluid is fed through said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) into said injector casing tube (1) when said device initiates its expansion;
  • the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to the head of the catheter or probe (4), and said head of the catheter or probe (4) is projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) when said device is in full expanded mode.
  • the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is arranged at a wall of said injector casing tube (1). More preferably the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is arranged orthogonally at a wall of said injector casing tube (1), wherein this preferred embodiment makes it easier for healthcare professionals to position themselves facing the patient and at the rear end of the device for introducing a catheter or a probe.
  • the orthogonal arrangement of said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is also proper for the application of the device according to the invention, wherein the patients themselves apply said device bringing its front end closer to themselves. Therefore, the orthogonal arrangement of said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is proper for both conditions, namely when healthcare professionals or patients, placed at opposite positions in relation to the device of the present invention, use it.
  • the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is arranged at an acute angle in relation to the wall of said injector casing tube (1). What happens is that this device is to be applied to a patient by health professionals, but also by patients themselves. In other embodiments, the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is arranged adjacent or near to the front end of said injector casing tube (1).
  • the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) comprises an obturator (5), which is connected to a rear portion of said flexible tube.
  • the obturator (5) avoids the pressurizing fluid enters in the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4).
  • the rear end of a flexible tube of a probe or catheter can also be threaded, which alternatively makes it possible to fix an obturator cap, as exemplified in , which thread, once the introduction is finished, can then also be used to connect a catheter, for example, to other external devices such as valves, or urine collection bags.
  • an obturator (5) comprise a cap inserted by pressure at the rear end of the flexible tube, a drop of melted material, or a drop of an adhesive arranged at the rear end of the flexible tube.
  • the strangulation of the rear end of the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) can also function as an obturator (5).
  • a cap (6) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in full retracted mode.
  • the cap (6) ensures that the interior of the injector casing tube (1) remains sterile until use.
  • an adapter for different diameters (7) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), because catheters or probes can have different sizes, depending on the specific application and patient needs.
  • the device for introducing a catheter or probe (4) further comprises a cap (6) and an adapter for different diameters (7), wherein a cap (6) is connected to a first end of an adapter for different diameters (7), and a second end of said adapter for different diameters (7) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in full retracted mode or in partially retracted mode.
  • connection among the cap (6), the adapter for different diameters (7), or the front portion of said injector casing tube (1) can be carried out by screw connection.
  • male-female connectors or bayonet connectors can be used, as it will be understood by a person skilled in the art.
  • the catheters or probes as well as the device for introducing a catheter or a probe can be made from a variety of biocompatible materials, depending on the specific application and patient needs.
  • Some of the most used materials for catheters or probes include silicones, semicrystalline polymers, latex, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polyamides (such as Nylon), Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), or polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon).
  • the inflatable flexible sleeve (3) can be made of flexible polymers or elastomers that are biocompatible materials, which should be able to bend, and rumble, but not too elastic, so as not to become a balloon when inflated, always maintaining expected diameters along its length. Moreover, the materials should be compatible with living tissues and able to function in biological environments. Examples of biocompatible polymers particularly suitable include silicone, polyurethane, and polylactic acid. Another example is natural rubber latex also has biocompatible properties.
  • Silicone is a soft, flexible material that is commonly used for urinary catheters because it is biocompatible and does not cause irritation or allergic reactions.
  • Latex is a natural rubber material that is used in a wide range of medical products, including catheters. However, some people may be allergic to latex, so alternative materials may be used in these cases.
  • Polyurethane is a synthetic material that is often used for central venous catheters and other types of long-term catheters. It is biocompatible and can be made into a range of shapes and sizes.
  • Polyvinyl chloride is a plastic material that is commonly used for short-term catheters, such as those used for drainage after surgery or during diagnostic procedures. Teflon is a non-stick material that is sometimes used to coat catheters to reduce friction during insertion and removal.
  • pressurizing fluid examples include water, distilled water, sterilized water, saline solution, contrast media, a solution that contains both heparin and saline, or a lubricant gel.
  • the pressurizing fluid is a lubricant gel, considering that catheter or a probe (4) slides along the injector casing tube (1) when it is driven by the device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4) according to the invention.
  • the expression. “substantially” means that the real value is within an interval of about 10% of the desired value, variable or related limit, particularly within about 5% of the desired value, variable or related limit or particularly within about 1% of the desired value, variable or related limit.
  • the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is unless specified otherwise, or clear from the context, the phrase “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, the phrase “X employs A or B” is satisfied by any of the following instances: X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B.
  • exemplary is intended to mean serving as an illustration or example of something and is not intended to indicate a preference.
  • Catheters or probes are medical devices that are primarily used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in the healthcare industry. However, catheters or probes may also have some industrial applications, including their uses in manufacturing processes for industries such as electronics and semiconductors, where they are used to deliver fluids or chemicals to precise locations in a production line. Catheters or probes may also be used in scientific research and development, particularly in the fields of materials science, nanotechnology, and biotechnology. Catheters or probes may be used in industrial waste management applications, where they can be used to extract or deliver fluids from confined spaces or hard-to-reach areas. Catheters or probes may be used as part of quality control processes in industries such as food and beverage, where they can be used to sample fluids from production lines to ensure product quality and safety. Catheters or may be used in chemical analysis applications, such as in environmental monitoring, where they can be used to collect samples of air, water, or soil for testing and analysis.

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Abstract

A device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4) comprising an injector casing tube (1), a pressurizing fluid inlet (2), and an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); wherein a first end of the sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of the tube (1), and a second end of the sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to a rear portion of a head of the catheter or probe (4) when the catheter or probe (4) is arranged along the said injector casing tube (1), and said sleeve (3) is configured to pull the head of the catheter or probe (4) and subsequently envelop a flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) during the eversion of said sleeve (3); and the inlet (2) is connected to the tube (1). The said device can follow sinuosities, circumvent obstacles, and widening narrowings, faced during the introduction of probes or catheters in a self-contouring manner (since it does not need to be guided) wherein nothing is impelled from outside, but pulled from within. The sleeve (3) keeps unfolding along the environment through which it moves, without dragging and rubbing it.

Description

Device for introducing a catheter or a probe and catheter or a probe introducing system
The present application refers to devices for introducing catheters or probes, which are medical devices that are primarily used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in the healthcare industry, and may also have some industrial applications.
Various probes and catheters introduced from a single access for different purposes are known, some applied with the aid of devices, configuring solutions designed to avoid friction with the environment they pass through and the dragging of substances and microorganisms to areas where they are inconvenient.
Technical Problems
One of the technical problems associated with the known devices for introducing probes or catheters or the probes and catheters themselves is due to the fact that those solutions are not very effective in following windings or circumventing obstacles, such as those that occur in altered urethras, since they are, or include components, pushed from the outside.
There is a need for a device for introducing a catheter or a probe from a single access that be effective in following sinuosities or getting around obstacles, including widening narrowings, in a self-contouring way, since it does not need to be guided, without friction with the environment, nor dragging substances and microorganisms.
The present invention refers in a first aspect to a device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4) comprising an injector casing tube (1), a pressurizing fluid inlet (2), an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
a first end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), and a second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to a rear portion of a head of a catheter or probe (4) when the catheter or probe (4) is arranged along the said injector casing tube (1), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to pull the head of the catheter or probe (4) and subsequently envelop a flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) during the eversion of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is connected to said injector casing tube (1).
The present invention refers in a second aspect to a catheter or a probe introducing system comprising a device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), according to the first aspect, and a catheter or a probe (4); and wherein
said catheter or a probe (4) comprises a head connected to a flexible tube, and is arranged along the said injector casing tube (1); and wherein
a first end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), and a second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a rear portion of the head of the catheter or probe (4), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to pull the head of the catheter or probe (4) and subsequently envelop the flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) during the eversion of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is connected to said injector casing tube (1).
Let's imagine a rubber glove in which a finger is inverted towards the interior of the glove (so it's inside out).
If we inflate the glove with sufficient pressure, the inverted part of that finger unfolds to its normal position, being expelled to the outside of the palm of the glove by the action of the internal forces exerted at each moment on the front of the unfolding finger, until it is reached its usual position (right finger).
If the tip of the inverted finger is connected to a loose object inside the glove (such as a probe or a catheter), when the glove is inflated, that object will also be pulled along the entire length of the inside of the finger, following the movement of its tip towards the exterior.
If during that process, a finger still inverted is placed against the entrance of a sinuous tube, the aforementioned forces and the flexibility of the material of the finger, will make it enter and advance through the interior of the tube, following the sinuosities it finds, and pulling the object to which it is connected throughout its entire way.
Note that in this process the finger of the glove advances through the interior of the tube and follows its sinuosities without the need to be guided (in a self-contouring manner) and without friction (which only happens between the object and the inside of the finger of the glove).
The device for introducing a catheter or a probe of the present invention comprises an injector casing tube, which fixes one end of an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve inverted towards its interior, which, in turn, envelops a probe or a catheter to which it is connected at its other end when said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve is everted or partially everted, functioning in a similar way to the inverted finger of the glove when inflated by a fluid, as exemplified in . Therefore, said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve pulls the catheter or the probe up to the injector outlet, from where gradually envelops it, as long as said sleeve is everted from the injector casing tube.
The device for introducing a catheter or a probe of the present invention is configured to introduce said catheter or probe from a single access pulling it from the inside in a self-contouring and frictionless way in such a way that nothing is impelled from outside but pulled from within always in the adequate directions at each stage of its path. The device of the present invention is effective in following sinuosities or getting around obstacles, including widening narrowings, in a self-contouring way, since it does not need to be guided, without friction with the environment, nor dragging substances and microorganisms.
The device for introducing a catheter or a probe of the present invention has the additional advantage of being able to be used with catheters with thinner walls, catheters with less hard heads, and heads with larger holes since the introduction of the catheter does not depend on auxiliary means that push the catheters from outside to inside. Furthermore, the use of more flexible catheters results in more comfort for the user.
When adding a pressurizing fluid through a fluid inlet, which is connected to the injector casing tube, the forces schematized in are generated. Centrifugal forces cause the expansion of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve to the limit of its diameter, thus widening the surroundings narrowings. Centripetal forces minimize the diameter of the still collapsed part of the sleeve. Thus, these centrifugal and centripetal forces maximize the area of the unfolding front of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve and, consequently, the magnitude of the resulting force exerted on it by the pressurizing fluid. The forces acting on the unfolding front of that sleeve keep expelling its part that is still collapsed, making it move forward and pull the probe or catheter to which it is connected. The non-axial component of these forces causes the changes in the direction of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve, which thus continues following sinuosities and circumventing obstacles without the need to be guided (in a self-contouring manner).
Once the probe or catheter has been introduced, it is only necessary to cut the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve near the outlet of the injector casing tube to release them from it.
The way in which the other end of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve is connected to the probe or catheter facilitates its release when being pulled from the outside, whenever its removal is considered convenient.
So that the pressurizing fluid does not escape through its interior, probes or catheters have the rear end blocked which, remaining on the outside after introduction, can then simply be cut.
The fact that the probe or catheter is pulled from inside makes it possible to reduce its rigidity, including that of the head, necessary for its progression if pushed from the outside, as well as follow sinuosities and circumvent obstacles in a self-contouring manner (without the need to be guided).
This device for introducing a catheter or a probe has the ability to follow sinuosities and circumvent obstacles usually faced during the introduction of probes or catheters. This advantage of this device for introducing a catheter or a probe often means the difference between the success or failure of the act, or between an innocuous procedure and an injurious and painful intervention.
A further advantage is that the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve keeps unfolding along the environment through which it moves, without dragging and, consequently, without rubbing it. As the probe or catheter is pulled along the inside of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve, it also does not rub the environment it travels through (but only the inside of the inflated sleeve).
Consequently, when introducing a catheter or a probe by using the device according to the present invention, there will also be no dragging of substances and microorganisms into areas where they are inconvenient, for example during the introduction of a transurethral catheter.
The inflatable eversible flexible sleeve will also be able to expand the environment through which it advances, up to the limit of its diameter, as it will be made of flexible material and not too elastic (like the film of an ordinary plastic bag).
Not having to force its passage, the head of the probe or catheter can even have more functional shapes than the existing ones, namely being shorter and having more or larger openings in the case of catheters, even at the expense of its rigidity, thus unnecessary.
Also, a lower rigidity of the entire probe or catheter makes it less aggressive to the environment through which it moves and a more comfortable foreign presence.
To promote an understanding of the principles by the embodiments of the present invention, reference will be made to the embodiments illustrated in the figures and to the language used to describe the same. Anyway, it must be understood that there is no intention of limiting the scope of the present invention to the contents of the figures. Any alterations or later changes of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional application of the principles and embodiments of the invention shown, which would occur normally for one skilled in the art when reading this description, are considered as being within the scope of the claimed invention.
Fig.1
illustrates a view of the device for introducing a catheter or a probe in expanded mode.
Fig.2
illustrates an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve inserted along the inner space of said injector casing tube when the device for introducing a catheter or a probe is in retracted mode, namely in a pre-use situation.
Fig.3
illustrates an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve collapsed and enveloping a head of a catheter or a probe inside an injector casing tube, wherein said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve pulls the catheter or probe by its head along the injector casing tube as the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve is being everted.
Fig.4
illustrates a longitudinal section with distribution of forces generated by the pressuring fluid in the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve.
Fig.5
illustrates the beginning of the expelling an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein about 10 mm of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve are projected.
Fig.6
illustrates the expelling of about 25% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein a transparent injector casing tube allows the view of the catheter or probe progression.
Fig.7
illustrates the expelling of about 43% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein a transparent injector casing tube allows the view of the catheter or probe approach to the injector outlet.
Fig.8
illustrates the expelling of about 70% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein a transparent injector casing tube allows the view of a portion of the catheter or probe being projected from the injector casing tube while being pulled by the inflated eversible flexible sleeve.
Fig.9
illustrates the expelling of about 95% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, in partially retracted mode, wherein a head of the catheter or probe is about to be projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe.
Fig.10
illustrates the full expelling of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve from an injector casing tube, wherein a head of the catheter or probe is projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe in fully expanded mode.
Fig.11
illustrates a catheter with a threaded rear end and respective obturator.
Fig.12
illustrates a cap connected to a front portion of an injector casing tube when the device for introducing a catheter or a probe is in retracted mode.
Fig.13
illustrates a cap connected to a first end of an adapter for different diameters, and a second end of said adapter for different diameters is connected to a front portion of an injector casing tube when the device for introducing a catheter or a probe is in retracted mode.
The present invention, as illustrated in , refers to a device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4) comprising an injector casing tube (1), a pressurizing fluid inlet (2), and an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
a first end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), and a second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to a rear portion of a head of a catheter or probe (4) when the catheter or probe (4) is arranged along the said injector casing tube (1), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to pull the head of the catheter or probe (4) and subsequently envelop a flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) during the eversion of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is connected to said injector casing tube (1).
In the preferred embodiments according to the present invention, as illustrated in , said eversible inflatable flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be inserted along the inner space of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in its pre-use full retracted mode; and wherein
the exterior surface of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to envelop said head of the catheter or probe (4) inside said injector casing tube (1) and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is collapsed between the said head of the catheter or probe (4) and the outlet end of said injector casing tube (1) or between the said head of the catheter or probe (4) and the everted front of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) when said device is, respectively, in its fully or partially retracted mode.
The inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), preferably connected to a portion of an interior wall of said injector casing tube (1) or to an exterior wall of said injector casing tube (1).
The second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to a rear portion of the head of the catheter or probe (4) in a portion of the head behind the whole set of components of the head of the catheter or probe (4) that are going to be exposed to the body of the user during the regular functioning of said catheter or probe (4) or that are intended to be exposed in the outside of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) in its fully expanded mode. As examples of said components, one can recite orifices or a balloon anchoring arranged in the head, wherein said components are comprised, for example, in urethral catheters.
In the preferred embodiments of urethral catheters, the head of the catheter or probe (4) comprises at least a component selected from the group consisting of a hole or an anchoring balloon. The head of the catheter or probe (4) can also comprise other components that are intended to be exposed outside of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) in its fully expanded mode considering the specific purposes of the catheter or probe (4).
In other embodiments, the second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) comprises a ring, which is not connected to the catheter or probe (4), wherein said ring has an internal diameter just slightly larger than that of the catheter flexible tube, in order to prevent the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) from progressing when colliding with an anchoring balloon or with a deliberate slight enlargement of the catheter or probe (4) head before the holes arranged in the head, to allow the removal of the sleeve from the outside, when this is convenient.
In , a transparent injector casing tube (1) allows the observation a long portion of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) having its interior wall directed towards the interior wall of the injector casing tube (1), wherein the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is collapsed and envelops a head of a catheter or a probe (4) inside an injector casing tube (1). At this stage, only the head of the catheter or probe (4) is enveloped by the exterior surface of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) inside said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in partial or full retracted mode. When begins the insufflation of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and it starts being projected from the injector casing tube (1), the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) starts moving in the injector casing tube (1) toward its front portion, beyond which it enters in the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3). During the transition from the full retracted mode to the partial retracted mode, said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) pulls the catheter or probe (4) by its head along the injector casing tube (1) as the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is being everted. During its eversion movement, said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) starts leaving the injector casing tube (1) before the head of the catheter or probe (4), which is pulled by the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
illustrates a longitudinal section with distribution of forces generated by the pressuring fluid in the inflatable flexible sleeve. A diameter maximizing centrifugal forces (101) increases the diameter of the already inflated portion of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3). A diameter minimizing centripetal forces (102) decreases the diameter of the portion of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) which is still collapsed. Forces acting on the unfolding front of the inflatable flexible sleeve (103), which axial components make it move forward and pull the catheter or the probe to which it is connected, and which non-axial components of those forces cause the changes in the direction of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3), which thus continues following sinuosities and circumventing obstacles without the need to be guided (in a self-contouring manner).
In the preferred embodiments of urethral catheters, the length of the injector casing tube (1) is equal or superior to the sum of the length of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the catheter or probe (4). Preferably, the length of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the catheter or probe (4) have substantially the same length.
The rear portion of the injector casing tube (1) is closed in order to avoid a loss of pressurizing fluid. In the preferred embodiments, the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) comprises a valve.
As an example of the functioning of the device for introducing urethral catheters, just when about half of the length of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is everted from the injector casing tube (1), said the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) starts enveloping a flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4).
During the pre-use full retracted mode, only the head of the catheter or probe (4) is enveloped by the exterior surface of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3), wherein said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a rear portion of a head of the catheter or probe (4).
During the pre-use full retracted mode, the catheter or probe (4) is arranged at the rear internal portion of the injector casing tube (1), and the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is arranged along the remaining portion of the injector casing tube (1) until its frontal end, wherein the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is collapsed and envelops the head of the catheter or probe (4).
As an example of the functioning of the device for introducing a urethral catheter or a probe (4), just when about half of the length of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is everted from the injector casing tube (1), the said head of the catheter or probe (4) reaches the injector casing tube (1) outlet, and said flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) starts entering in the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
Moreover, when the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) finishes its eversion, the said head of the catheter or probe (4) is arranged outside said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3). As an example, after a urethral catheter is introduced in the bladder, the head of the catheter or probe (4), including its holes and anchoring balloons, are arranged outside said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
As an example of the functioning of the device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), during the eversion of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3), the progression velocity of the said head of the catheter or probe (4) is substantially the double of the progression velocity of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
As an example of the functioning of the device for introducing a urethral catheter or a probe (4), after reaching the full expanded mode, the said head of the catheter or probe (4) went through substantially the portion of the injector casing tube (1), which was occupied by the said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) in its pre-use full retracted mode, and the overall length of the said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) after it had been fully everted. Therefore, the said head of the catheter or probe (4) went through substantially two times the length of the said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3).
The transition of a retracted mode to an expanded mode of a device for introducing a catheter or a probe is illustrated in Figures 5 to 10.
illustrates the beginning of the expelling of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein about 10 mm of the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) are projected from the injector casing tube (1).
illustrates the expelling of about 25% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a transparent injector casing tube (1) allows the view of the catheter or probe (4) progression, while it is inside the injector casing tube (1).
illustrates the expelling of about 43% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a transparent injector casing tube (1) allows the view of the catheter or probe (4) approach to the injector outlet.
illustrates the expelling of about 70% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a transparent injector casing tube (1) allows the view of a portion of the catheter or probe (4) being projected from the injector casing tube while being pulled by the inflated flexible sleeve through its interior.
illustrates the expelling of about 95% of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a head of the catheter or probe (4) is about to be projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4).
illustrates the full expelling of an inflated eversible flexible sleeve (3) from an injector casing tube (1), wherein a head of the catheter or probe (4) is projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) in fully expanded mode.
Therefore, in the preferred embodiments of the device for introducing a catheter or a probe, as illustrated in , said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be expelled by eversion from the outlet of said injector casing tube (1) when a pressurizing fluid is fed through said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) into said injector casing tube (1) when said device initiates its expansion; and wherein
the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to the head of the catheter or probe (4), and said head of the catheter or probe (4) is projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) when said device is in full expanded mode.
In other preferred embodiments according to the present invention, the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is arranged at a wall of said injector casing tube (1). More preferably the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is arranged orthogonally at a wall of said injector casing tube (1), wherein this preferred embodiment makes it easier for healthcare professionals to position themselves facing the patient and at the rear end of the device for introducing a catheter or a probe. The orthogonal arrangement of said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is also proper for the application of the device according to the invention, wherein the patients themselves apply said device bringing its front end closer to themselves. Therefore, the orthogonal arrangement of said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is proper for both conditions, namely when healthcare professionals or patients, placed at opposite positions in relation to the device of the present invention, use it.
In other embodiments, the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is arranged at an acute angle in relation to the wall of said injector casing tube (1). What happens is that this device is to be applied to a patient by health professionals, but also by patients themselves. In other embodiments, the pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is arranged adjacent or near to the front end of said injector casing tube (1).
Preferably, as illustrated in , the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) comprises an obturator (5), which is connected to a rear portion of said flexible tube. The obturator (5) avoids the pressurizing fluid enters in the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4). The rear end of a flexible tube of a probe or catheter can also be threaded, which alternatively makes it possible to fix an obturator cap, as exemplified in , which thread, once the introduction is finished, can then also be used to connect a catheter, for example, to other external devices such as valves, or urine collection bags.
Alternative forms of an obturator (5) comprise a cap inserted by pressure at the rear end of the flexible tube, a drop of melted material, or a drop of an adhesive arranged at the rear end of the flexible tube. The strangulation of the rear end of the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) can also function as an obturator (5).
Preferably, as illustrated in , a cap (6) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in full retracted mode. The cap (6) ensures that the interior of the injector casing tube (1) remains sterile until use.
In other preferred embodiments of the device for introducing a catheter or a probe, an adapter for different diameters (7), for example, a reducer-adapter, is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), because catheters or probes can have different sizes, depending on the specific application and patient needs. As illustrated in , the device for introducing a catheter or probe (4) further comprises a cap (6) and an adapter for different diameters (7), wherein a cap (6) is connected to a first end of an adapter for different diameters (7), and a second end of said adapter for different diameters (7) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in full retracted mode or in partially retracted mode.
As illustrated in , the connection among the cap (6), the adapter for different diameters (7), or the front portion of said injector casing tube (1) can be carried out by screw connection. Alternatively, male-female connectors or bayonet connectors can be used, as it will be understood by a person skilled in the art.
The catheters or probes as well as the device for introducing a catheter or a probe can be made from a variety of biocompatible materials, depending on the specific application and patient needs. Some of the most used materials for catheters or probes include silicones, semicrystalline polymers, latex, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polyamides (such as Nylon), Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), or polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon).
The inflatable flexible sleeve (3) can be made of flexible polymers or elastomers that are biocompatible materials, which should be able to bend, and rumble, but not too elastic, so as not to become a balloon when inflated, always maintaining expected diameters along its length. Moreover, the materials should be compatible with living tissues and able to function in biological environments. Examples of biocompatible polymers particularly suitable include silicone, polyurethane, and polylactic acid. Another example is natural rubber latex also has biocompatible properties.
Silicone is a soft, flexible material that is commonly used for urinary catheters because it is biocompatible and does not cause irritation or allergic reactions. Latex is a natural rubber material that is used in a wide range of medical products, including catheters. However, some people may be allergic to latex, so alternative materials may be used in these cases. Polyurethane is a synthetic material that is often used for central venous catheters and other types of long-term catheters. It is biocompatible and can be made into a range of shapes and sizes. Polyvinyl chloride is a plastic material that is commonly used for short-term catheters, such as those used for drainage after surgery or during diagnostic procedures. Teflon is a non-stick material that is sometimes used to coat catheters to reduce friction during insertion and removal.
Examples of pressurizing fluid are water, distilled water, sterilized water, saline solution, contrast media, a solution that contains both heparin and saline, or a lubricant gel. In the preferred embodiments, the pressurizing fluid is a lubricant gel, considering that catheter or a probe (4) slides along the injector casing tube (1) when it is driven by the device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4) according to the invention.
As used in this description, the expression. “substantially” means that the real value is within an interval of about 10% of the desired value, variable or related limit, particularly within about 5% of the desired value, variable or related limit or particularly within about 1% of the desired value, variable or related limit.
Moreover, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is unless specified otherwise, or clear from the context, the phrase “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, the phrase “X employs A or B” is satisfied by any of the following instances: X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B.
In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from the context to be directed to a singular form.
Further, as used herein, the term “exemplary” is intended to mean serving as an illustration or example of something and is not intended to indicate a preference.
The subject matter described above is provided as an illustration of the present invention and must not be interpreted to limit it. The terminology used to describe specific embodiments, according to the present invention, must not be interpreted to limit the invention. As used in this description, the definite and indefinite articles, in their singular form, aim to include in the interpretation the plural forms, unless the context of the description explicitly indicates the contrary. It will be understood that the expressions “comprise” and “include” when used in this description, specify the presence of the characteristics, the elements, the components, the steps, and the related operations, but do not exclude the possibility of other characteristics, elements, components, steps, and operations from being also contemplated.
All modifications, providing that they do not modify the essential features of the following claims, must be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Catheters or probes are medical devices that are primarily used for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in the healthcare industry. However, catheters or probes may also have some industrial applications, including their uses in manufacturing processes for industries such as electronics and semiconductors, where they are used to deliver fluids or chemicals to precise locations in a production line. Catheters or probes may also be used in scientific research and development, particularly in the fields of materials science, nanotechnology, and biotechnology. Catheters or probes may be used in industrial waste management applications, where they can be used to extract or deliver fluids from confined spaces or hard-to-reach areas. Catheters or probes may be used as part of quality control processes in industries such as food and beverage, where they can be used to sample fluids from production lines to ensure product quality and safety. Catheters or may be used in chemical analysis applications, such as in environmental monitoring, where they can be used to collect samples of air, water, or soil for testing and analysis.
  1. An injector casing tube
  2. A pressurizing fluid inlet
  3. An inflatable eversible flexible sleeve
  4. A catheter or a probe
  5. An obturator
  6. A cap
  7. An adapter for different diameters
  1. Diameter maximizing centrifugal forces
  2. Diameter minimizing centripetal forces
  3. Forces acting on the unfolding front of the inflatable flexible sleeve
Citation List follows:
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Claims (12)

  1. A device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4) characterized by comprising an injector casing tube (1), a pressurizing fluid inlet (2), and an inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
    a first end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), and a second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to a rear portion of a head of a catheter or probe (4) when the catheter or probe (4) is arranged along the said injector casing tube (1), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to pull the head of the catheter or probe (4) and subsequently envelop a flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) during the eversion of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
    said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is connected to said injector casing tube (1).
  2. The device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), according to the previous claim, wherein said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be inserted along the inner space of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in its pre-use full retracted mode; and wherein
    the exterior surface of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to envelop said head of the catheter or probe (4) inside said injector casing tube (1), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is collapsed between the said head of the catheter or probe (4) and the outlet end of said injector casing tube (1) or between the said head of the catheter or probe (4) and the everted front of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) when said device is, respectively, in its fully or partially retracted mode.
  3. The device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), according to any of the previous claims, wherein said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be expelled by eversion from the outlet of said injector casing tube (1) when a pressurizing fluid is fed through said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) into said injector casing tube (1) when said device initiates its expansion; and wherein
    The inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to the head of the catheter or probe (4), and said head of the catheter or probe (4) is projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) when said device is in full expanded mode.
  4. The device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), according to any of the previous claims, wherein said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is arranged at a wall of said injector casing tube (1).
  5. The device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), according to any of the claims 2 to 4, wherein a cap (6) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in full retracted mode.
  6. The device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), according to any of the previous claims, wherein an adapter for different diameters (7) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1).
  7. The device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), according to any of the claims 2 to 5, wherein a cap (6) is connected to a first end of an adapter for different diameters (7), and a second end of said adapter for different diameters (7) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in full retracted mode or in partially retracted mode.
  8. A catheter or a probe introducing system characterized by comprising a device for introducing a catheter or a probe (4), as defined in any of the previous claims, and a catheter or a probe (4); and wherein
    said catheter or a probe (4) comprises a head connected to a flexible tube, and is arranged along the said injector casing tube (1); and wherein
    a first end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a front portion of said injector casing tube (1), and a second end of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is connected to a rear portion of the head of the catheter or probe (4), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to pull the head of the catheter or probe (4) and subsequently envelop the flexible tube of said catheter or probe (4) during the eversion of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3); and wherein
    said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) is connected to said injector casing tube (1).
  9. The catheter or a probe introducing system, according to the previous claim, wherein the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) comprises an obturator (5) connected to a rear portion of said flexible tube.
  10. The catheter or a probe introducing system, according to any one of the claims 8 or 9, wherein said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be inserted along the inner space of said injector casing tube (1) when said device is in its pre-use full retracted mode; and wherein
    the exterior surface of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to envelop said head of the catheter or probe (4) inside said injector casing tube (1), and said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is collapsed between the said head of the catheter or probe (4) and the outlet end of said injector casing tube (1) or between the said head of the catheter or probe (4) and the everted front of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) when said device is, respectively, in its fully or partially retracted mode.
  11. The catheter or a probe introducing system, according to any one of the claims 8 to 10, wherein said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be expelled by eversion from the outlet of said injector casing tube (1) when a pressurizing fluid is fed through said pressurizing fluid inlet (2) into said injector casing tube (1) when said device initiates its expansion; and wherein
    the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) is configured to be connected to the head of the catheter or probe (4), and said head of the catheter or probe (4) is projected outside the envelope comprising the inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) and the flexible tube of the catheter or probe (4) when said device is in full expanded mode.
  12. The catheter or a probe introducing system, according to any one of the claims 8 to 11, wherein the head of the catheter or probe (4) comprises at least a component that is intended to be exposed outside of said inflatable eversible flexible sleeve (3) in its fully expanded mode, for example a hole or an anchoring balloon.
PCT/IB2023/054784 2022-05-11 2023-05-09 Device for introducing a catheter or a probe and catheter or probe introducing system WO2023218342A1 (en)

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PT11797422 2022-05-11
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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE2021634A1 (en) * 1970-05-02 1971-11-18 Bernhard Dr Kramann Catheters, especially urinary bladder catheters
WO1984003633A1 (en) * 1983-03-25 1984-09-27 Thomas J Fogarty Inverted balloon catheter having sealed through lumen
US20150133737A1 (en) * 2013-11-11 2015-05-14 Cross Bay Medical, Inc. Apparatus and methods for accessing and sealing bodily vessels and cavities
US10349957B2 (en) * 2016-11-09 2019-07-16 Cruzar Medsystems, Inc. Systems and methods for traversing a site of obstruction
CN114007678A (en) * 2019-05-15 2022-02-01 泰利福生命科学无限责任公司 Catheter assembly

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE2021634A1 (en) * 1970-05-02 1971-11-18 Bernhard Dr Kramann Catheters, especially urinary bladder catheters
WO1984003633A1 (en) * 1983-03-25 1984-09-27 Thomas J Fogarty Inverted balloon catheter having sealed through lumen
US20150133737A1 (en) * 2013-11-11 2015-05-14 Cross Bay Medical, Inc. Apparatus and methods for accessing and sealing bodily vessels and cavities
US10349957B2 (en) * 2016-11-09 2019-07-16 Cruzar Medsystems, Inc. Systems and methods for traversing a site of obstruction
CN114007678A (en) * 2019-05-15 2022-02-01 泰利福生命科学无限责任公司 Catheter assembly

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