CA2168781C - Coaxial cable vascular access system - Google Patents
Coaxial cable vascular access systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA2168781C CA2168781C CA002168781A CA2168781A CA2168781C CA 2168781 C CA2168781 C CA 2168781C CA 002168781 A CA002168781 A CA 002168781A CA 2168781 A CA2168781 A CA 2168781A CA 2168781 C CA2168781 C CA 2168781C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- probe
- housing
- piezoelectric element
- dielectric
- shielding means
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status 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 status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B8/00—Diagnosis using ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves
- A61B8/08—Detecting organic movements or changes, e.g. tumours, cysts, swellings
- A61B8/0833—Detecting organic movements or changes, e.g. tumours, cysts, swellings involving detecting or locating foreign bodies or organic structures
Abstract
A vascular access system for accurately locating body structures such as blood vessels within a patient, includes a flexible probe for applying Doppler ultrasonic techniques that have a relatively adjustable length relative to a needle assembly. The flexible probe has a coaxial cable design that includes a piezoelectric element at a proximal end of the probe. The piezoelectric element is used for emitting ultrasonic signals and for receiving ultrasonic signals that are reflected off of various body structures within a patient. The intensity of the reflective ultrasonic signals is used to determine the location of a pre-selected body structure. The flexible probe is adaptable for use within a variety of needles for a variety of applications.
Description
~ 95104502 COAXIAL CABLE VASCULAR ACCESS SYSTEM
>OACRGROUND OF IPPEpTinu This invention generally relates to a vascular access system for locating structures such as blood vessels within a patient's body. More specifically, this invention relates to a flezible coazial cable probe for locating body structures within a patient using Doppler technology that provides a relatively adjustable length so that it is adaptable to a variety of needles.
The, insertion of arterial and venous catheters for various purposes including angiography can prove difficult for medical profeasionals. Locating and penetrating arteries and veins is especially difficult when dealing with patients who are obese or present unusual anatomy. When a medical professional has difficulty locating an artery or vein, the patient is subjected to increased discomfort. Various devices improve accuracy in locating vessels within a patient's body and, thereby decrease the amount of discomfort a patient must endure. One such attempt includes the use of Doppler ultrasound technology.
The potential utility of Doppler ultrasound for accurately guiding a needle into a vessel has been recognized.
Certain applications utilize the transmission of ultrasonic waves through the needle and the reception of ultrasonic echoes by a separate transducer located on the body of the patient separated from the syringe and needle. Such applications can give erroneous signals, particularly when the needle is engaging the blood vessel or immediately before penetrating the blood veasel. An improvement over such applications includes a tranaducer insert positioned within a hollow needle that has an ultrasonic transducer at one end for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves within the sharpened end of the needle.
,VO 95/04502 However, the fized construction of the latter transducers typically limits their application to a specific size (length) of needle.
When the transducer prbbe has a rigid body for a portion of its length, this rigid body portion is typically located within the needle and a portion of a needle housing. A
typical needle housing for a probe of this type includes a side arm through which the transducer is electrically coupled to a power source and/or a device for interpreting information gained through the transducer. Such side arms are typically oriented at an acute angle bend relative to the azis of the needle.
Hecause the probe body is rigid, it cannot be retracted around the bend and back through the side arm. Thus, a coazial cable has been connected to the rigid body probe to properly electrically couple the transducer to the power source. The coazial cable is used for its ability to be bent at the turn between the longitudinal azis of the needle housing and the side arm. However, the cable attachment to the rigid body probe necessarily includes a larger diameter due to the soldering and ahrink tubing needed to make the connection. This larger diameter connection prohibits the probe from advancing down into the needle while the rigidity of the probe body in the needle does not allow the probe to retract into the side arm.
Therefore, such probes inherently have a fized length relative to the needle and/or needle housing.
Nevertheless, it is desirable to have a transducer probe for utilizing Doppler ultrasound techniques that has a relatively adjustable length within a needle and needle housing. When a probe has a fized length relative to a needle, the number of needles that can be used with such a probe is normally limited to one. This is because the location of~ the probe near the distal end of the needle is crucial to propez functioning and use of Doppler ultrasound techniques. Thus, a probe having a relatively adjustable iength would have the advantage of being adaptable to a variety of needle sizes 2168'~81 (lengths). Further, such a probe inherently would provide cost efficiencies as it is usable with a variety of needles for a variety of applications.
This invention includes an adjustable length probe for use within a needle assembly for sensing the position of body structures, such as blood vessels, within a patient by using Doppler ultrasound techniques. An entirely coazial probe has been designed according to this invention which includes a center conductor surrounded by a dielectric tube. Shielding means surrounds a portion of the dielectric tube such that a predetermined length of the dielectric tube eztends beyond the shielding means. The ezposed dielectric tube can be made any length to accommodate various needle lengths. A jacket covers a portion of the shielding means such that a predetermined length of the shielding means eztends beyond the jacket. The portion of the shielding means that eztends beyond the jacket is anchored to the dielectric tube by a means for anchoring. A
piezoelectric element is connected to a prozimal end of the dielectric tube. Lastly, means for preventing electrical shorts across the piezoeletric element and means for electrically coupling the piezoelectric element to the shielding means are provided.
A pzobe constructed in accordance with this invention includes several advantages compared to prior attempts at applying Doppier ultrasound technology to vessel location within a patient's body. The inventive probe is adjustable and flezible along its entire length. As such) the inventive probe can be used for various applications in a variety of needles, as ~ it has an adjustable length relative to a needle assembly.
When a needle is appropriately connected to a needle houaing having a side arm, the inventive probe can be inserted through the channel in the side arm and housing and into and through the needle to an appropriate position near the proaimal end of the needle. The flezibility of the inventive probe allows the probe to bend around an angled bend between any channels in a needle housing. Typically, side arms provided on such needle housings are at an angle of 30 degrees relative to the azis of the needle. The inventive probe has no difficulty negotiating the turn from a 30 degree bend and can therefore be ~ved azially within the housing and the needle into an appropriate position) A needle housing in accordance with the present invention preferably includes a locking means at the opening of the side arm where the flezible probe is inserted. In a presently preferred embodiment, the locking means includes an iaternally threaded member that engages an ezternally threaded end near the opening on the housing where the probe is iaserted. Also included, is a pressure means that responsively ezerts pressure radially upon the probe when the internally threaded member is adjusted relative to the housing. The pressure means, therefore) holds the probe temporarily at a preselected fized azisl position relative to the housing. Such locking mechanisms are commonly known as Toughy-Horst Locking Mechanisms.
These and other features and advantages of this invention will become apparent to one skilled in the art from the following description, appended claims and drawings; the latter being briefly described as follows.
Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a flezible probe in a needle housing.
Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a coazial cable forming a flezible probe.
Figure 3 illustrates the adjustability feature of the probe.
~O 95/04502 PCTILlS94/08733 ~~ 687~~.
DETAIhED DESGRTPTTON OF THE PRE tt~t g~~pDIl~nt~r Figure 1 illustrates needle assembly 10 including housing 12, needle 14 and flezible probe 16. Flezible probe 16 has an adjustable length relative to housing 12 and needle 14 as ahown generaliy by direction arrow 18 in Figure 3 as will be more fully described below.
Housing 12 includes first end 20 adapted to be connected to a variety of needles. Second end 22 is azially opposite first end 20 and preferably coazial with first end 20.
Second end 22 is adapted to be connected to a syringe, for ezample. Housing 12 includes first channel 24 defined between first end 20 and second end 22. Third end 26 is adapted to receive flezible probe 16. A second channel 28 is defined between third end 26 and a medial location along first channel 24 that defines a bend 30. As illustrated, when in use, flezible probe 16 is azially movable through second channel 28 and a portion of first channel 24 and needle 14 such that flezible probe 16 bends around bend 30. First channel 24 and second channel 28 typically have a relative angle of orientation of approzimately 30 degrees.
Third end 26 preferably includes locking means 31.
Locking means 31 includes ezternal threads 32 which can be fonaed on third end 26 of housing 12. Internally threaded adjustable member 34 is received over ezternal threads 32.
Bressure means 36 is contacted by aurface 38 on adjustable member 34. Pressure means 36 is received in the portion of housing 12 indicated at 40 such that the relative adjustment of member 34 along ezternal threads 32 causes surface 38 to bear against and apply an azial pressure on pressure means 36. Such azial pressure compresses pressure means 36 in such manner ~that ~ pressure means 36 ezerts a radially compressive force on flezible probe 16. In this manner, flezible probe 16 is temporarily held azially fized relative to housing 12. Pressure means 36 also acts as a seal against leakage from the third end 26.
-6_ Fleaible probe 16 can be azially slid through housing 12 and needle 14 to an appropriate position such that a proaimal end 42 of flezible probe 16 is appropriately positioned within needle 14. Locking means 31 can then be appropriately adjusted to maintain flezible probe 16 in this preselected position.
Housing 12 is preferably made of a clear,_~ightweight plastic material for easy manipulation and to enable a medical professional to observe the passage of medication or blood through first channel 24 when appropriate.
Figure 2 shows, in partial cross-sectional view, a preferred embodiment of flezible probe 16. A solid center conductor 50 is surrounded by a dielectric tube 52. In a preferred embodiment, the conductor is surrounded by a Teflori dielectric tube, which provides improved noise suppression during operation. Conductor 50 can be composed of copper, silver, or silver-plated copper. A means for enhancing bondability 54 is coeatruded over dielectric tube 52. In a preferred embodiment, means 54 is a thin layer of nylon, which is capable of being adhered to by conductive adhesive.
Shielding means 56 covers a portion of dielectric tube 52.
Shielding means 56 is preferably a braid or a foil wrap over a drain wire. A silicon) Teflori or other type of jacket 58 completes a portion of the probe-cable assembly. Jacket 58 and ahielding means 56 are preferably stripped off the dielectric tube 52, leaving 1/4 of an inch of the shielding means ezposed.
Anchoring means 60 anchors shielding means 56 to dielectric tube 52. Anchoring means 60 can be a conductive ring or hollow cylindrical crimp. The ezposed length of dielectric tube 52 eztending beyond shielding means 56 can be any preselected length necessary, depending on the mazimum length of needle with which the probe is intended for use.
The prozimal end of flezible probe 16 includes piezoelectric element 62 which is affized to dielectric tube 52 by connecting means 64. Connecting means 64 is preferably a conductive adhesive. Piezoelectric element 62 and connecting * Trademark ~~ b~7~ ~
means 64 are encapsulated in a polyimide sleeve 66 that serves as means for preventing electrical shorts across piezoelectric element 62. Polyimide sleeve 66 also provides the advantage of preserving the mechanical integrity of the prozimal end 42 of flezible probe 16. A conductive layer 68 surrounds all portions of flezible probe 16 that are not covered by jacket 58.
Conductive layer 68 serves as a means for electrically coupling piezoelectric element 62 to shielding means 56. In the preferred embodiment, conductive layer 68 is composed of a conductive adhesive.
When needle 14 is inserted within a patient's body as shown in Figure 1, for eaample to make an arterial injection) fleaible probe 16 assists the medical professional in locating the artery to receive the injection. Piezoelectric element 62 emits ultrasonic signals that emanate outwardly from the end of needle 14. These ultrasonic signals are reflected off of body structures such as blood vessels and the reflective signals are detected by piezoelectric element 62. It is well known, that the phenomenon known as the Doppler effect can be utilized to accurately locate body structures such as blood vessels. The intensity of the reflected ultrasonic signals will increase as the prozimal end of needle 14 approaches the preselected artery. Hy manipulating needle assembly 10 such that needle 14 moves slightly arcuately within the patient, a user or medical professional can determine whether the needle 14 is directly approaching the preselected artery or vein based upon the information discernible from the reflected ultrasonic signals received by piezoelectric element 62.
The inventive probe can be coupled with conventional power supplies such as 70 to cause piezoelectric element 62 to emit ultrasonic signals and conventional electronics~ for interpreting the information gained from the reflected ultrasonic signals. An ezample of a device which is known to operate and function in the manner just described is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,887,606.
.NO 95/04502 PCT/US94/08733 The inventive probe has the distinct advantage of being adaptable for use within a variety of needles and for a variety of applications. This flezibility and adjustability provides economies and efficiencies in manufacturing and in actual use of a probe. For ezample, the coazial conductor and tube assembly forrning part of probe 15 can be wound onto a reel and removed therefrom depending on the length of probe desired.
Further, the inventive probe can be efficiently used with a variety of catheters. For ezample, a catheter assembly could be appropriately connected to second end 22 of housing 12. After the proper artery is located by using probe 16 and the appropriate length of the needle is inserted into the artery, probe 16 can be moved azially and retracted out of needle 14 and first channel 24 so the catheter can then be inserted into the artery through the needle.
The foregoing description is illustrative rather than limiting in nature. A preferred embodiment has been disclosed to enable one skilled in the art to practice this invention.
Variations and modifications are possible that do not depart from the purview and spirit of this invention; the scope of which is limited only by the appended claims.
>OACRGROUND OF IPPEpTinu This invention generally relates to a vascular access system for locating structures such as blood vessels within a patient's body. More specifically, this invention relates to a flezible coazial cable probe for locating body structures within a patient using Doppler technology that provides a relatively adjustable length so that it is adaptable to a variety of needles.
The, insertion of arterial and venous catheters for various purposes including angiography can prove difficult for medical profeasionals. Locating and penetrating arteries and veins is especially difficult when dealing with patients who are obese or present unusual anatomy. When a medical professional has difficulty locating an artery or vein, the patient is subjected to increased discomfort. Various devices improve accuracy in locating vessels within a patient's body and, thereby decrease the amount of discomfort a patient must endure. One such attempt includes the use of Doppler ultrasound technology.
The potential utility of Doppler ultrasound for accurately guiding a needle into a vessel has been recognized.
Certain applications utilize the transmission of ultrasonic waves through the needle and the reception of ultrasonic echoes by a separate transducer located on the body of the patient separated from the syringe and needle. Such applications can give erroneous signals, particularly when the needle is engaging the blood vessel or immediately before penetrating the blood veasel. An improvement over such applications includes a tranaducer insert positioned within a hollow needle that has an ultrasonic transducer at one end for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves within the sharpened end of the needle.
,VO 95/04502 However, the fized construction of the latter transducers typically limits their application to a specific size (length) of needle.
When the transducer prbbe has a rigid body for a portion of its length, this rigid body portion is typically located within the needle and a portion of a needle housing. A
typical needle housing for a probe of this type includes a side arm through which the transducer is electrically coupled to a power source and/or a device for interpreting information gained through the transducer. Such side arms are typically oriented at an acute angle bend relative to the azis of the needle.
Hecause the probe body is rigid, it cannot be retracted around the bend and back through the side arm. Thus, a coazial cable has been connected to the rigid body probe to properly electrically couple the transducer to the power source. The coazial cable is used for its ability to be bent at the turn between the longitudinal azis of the needle housing and the side arm. However, the cable attachment to the rigid body probe necessarily includes a larger diameter due to the soldering and ahrink tubing needed to make the connection. This larger diameter connection prohibits the probe from advancing down into the needle while the rigidity of the probe body in the needle does not allow the probe to retract into the side arm.
Therefore, such probes inherently have a fized length relative to the needle and/or needle housing.
Nevertheless, it is desirable to have a transducer probe for utilizing Doppler ultrasound techniques that has a relatively adjustable length within a needle and needle housing. When a probe has a fized length relative to a needle, the number of needles that can be used with such a probe is normally limited to one. This is because the location of~ the probe near the distal end of the needle is crucial to propez functioning and use of Doppler ultrasound techniques. Thus, a probe having a relatively adjustable iength would have the advantage of being adaptable to a variety of needle sizes 2168'~81 (lengths). Further, such a probe inherently would provide cost efficiencies as it is usable with a variety of needles for a variety of applications.
This invention includes an adjustable length probe for use within a needle assembly for sensing the position of body structures, such as blood vessels, within a patient by using Doppler ultrasound techniques. An entirely coazial probe has been designed according to this invention which includes a center conductor surrounded by a dielectric tube. Shielding means surrounds a portion of the dielectric tube such that a predetermined length of the dielectric tube eztends beyond the shielding means. The ezposed dielectric tube can be made any length to accommodate various needle lengths. A jacket covers a portion of the shielding means such that a predetermined length of the shielding means eztends beyond the jacket. The portion of the shielding means that eztends beyond the jacket is anchored to the dielectric tube by a means for anchoring. A
piezoelectric element is connected to a prozimal end of the dielectric tube. Lastly, means for preventing electrical shorts across the piezoeletric element and means for electrically coupling the piezoelectric element to the shielding means are provided.
A pzobe constructed in accordance with this invention includes several advantages compared to prior attempts at applying Doppier ultrasound technology to vessel location within a patient's body. The inventive probe is adjustable and flezible along its entire length. As such) the inventive probe can be used for various applications in a variety of needles, as ~ it has an adjustable length relative to a needle assembly.
When a needle is appropriately connected to a needle houaing having a side arm, the inventive probe can be inserted through the channel in the side arm and housing and into and through the needle to an appropriate position near the proaimal end of the needle. The flezibility of the inventive probe allows the probe to bend around an angled bend between any channels in a needle housing. Typically, side arms provided on such needle housings are at an angle of 30 degrees relative to the azis of the needle. The inventive probe has no difficulty negotiating the turn from a 30 degree bend and can therefore be ~ved azially within the housing and the needle into an appropriate position) A needle housing in accordance with the present invention preferably includes a locking means at the opening of the side arm where the flezible probe is inserted. In a presently preferred embodiment, the locking means includes an iaternally threaded member that engages an ezternally threaded end near the opening on the housing where the probe is iaserted. Also included, is a pressure means that responsively ezerts pressure radially upon the probe when the internally threaded member is adjusted relative to the housing. The pressure means, therefore) holds the probe temporarily at a preselected fized azisl position relative to the housing. Such locking mechanisms are commonly known as Toughy-Horst Locking Mechanisms.
These and other features and advantages of this invention will become apparent to one skilled in the art from the following description, appended claims and drawings; the latter being briefly described as follows.
Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a flezible probe in a needle housing.
Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of a coazial cable forming a flezible probe.
Figure 3 illustrates the adjustability feature of the probe.
~O 95/04502 PCTILlS94/08733 ~~ 687~~.
DETAIhED DESGRTPTTON OF THE PRE tt~t g~~pDIl~nt~r Figure 1 illustrates needle assembly 10 including housing 12, needle 14 and flezible probe 16. Flezible probe 16 has an adjustable length relative to housing 12 and needle 14 as ahown generaliy by direction arrow 18 in Figure 3 as will be more fully described below.
Housing 12 includes first end 20 adapted to be connected to a variety of needles. Second end 22 is azially opposite first end 20 and preferably coazial with first end 20.
Second end 22 is adapted to be connected to a syringe, for ezample. Housing 12 includes first channel 24 defined between first end 20 and second end 22. Third end 26 is adapted to receive flezible probe 16. A second channel 28 is defined between third end 26 and a medial location along first channel 24 that defines a bend 30. As illustrated, when in use, flezible probe 16 is azially movable through second channel 28 and a portion of first channel 24 and needle 14 such that flezible probe 16 bends around bend 30. First channel 24 and second channel 28 typically have a relative angle of orientation of approzimately 30 degrees.
Third end 26 preferably includes locking means 31.
Locking means 31 includes ezternal threads 32 which can be fonaed on third end 26 of housing 12. Internally threaded adjustable member 34 is received over ezternal threads 32.
Bressure means 36 is contacted by aurface 38 on adjustable member 34. Pressure means 36 is received in the portion of housing 12 indicated at 40 such that the relative adjustment of member 34 along ezternal threads 32 causes surface 38 to bear against and apply an azial pressure on pressure means 36. Such azial pressure compresses pressure means 36 in such manner ~that ~ pressure means 36 ezerts a radially compressive force on flezible probe 16. In this manner, flezible probe 16 is temporarily held azially fized relative to housing 12. Pressure means 36 also acts as a seal against leakage from the third end 26.
-6_ Fleaible probe 16 can be azially slid through housing 12 and needle 14 to an appropriate position such that a proaimal end 42 of flezible probe 16 is appropriately positioned within needle 14. Locking means 31 can then be appropriately adjusted to maintain flezible probe 16 in this preselected position.
Housing 12 is preferably made of a clear,_~ightweight plastic material for easy manipulation and to enable a medical professional to observe the passage of medication or blood through first channel 24 when appropriate.
Figure 2 shows, in partial cross-sectional view, a preferred embodiment of flezible probe 16. A solid center conductor 50 is surrounded by a dielectric tube 52. In a preferred embodiment, the conductor is surrounded by a Teflori dielectric tube, which provides improved noise suppression during operation. Conductor 50 can be composed of copper, silver, or silver-plated copper. A means for enhancing bondability 54 is coeatruded over dielectric tube 52. In a preferred embodiment, means 54 is a thin layer of nylon, which is capable of being adhered to by conductive adhesive.
Shielding means 56 covers a portion of dielectric tube 52.
Shielding means 56 is preferably a braid or a foil wrap over a drain wire. A silicon) Teflori or other type of jacket 58 completes a portion of the probe-cable assembly. Jacket 58 and ahielding means 56 are preferably stripped off the dielectric tube 52, leaving 1/4 of an inch of the shielding means ezposed.
Anchoring means 60 anchors shielding means 56 to dielectric tube 52. Anchoring means 60 can be a conductive ring or hollow cylindrical crimp. The ezposed length of dielectric tube 52 eztending beyond shielding means 56 can be any preselected length necessary, depending on the mazimum length of needle with which the probe is intended for use.
The prozimal end of flezible probe 16 includes piezoelectric element 62 which is affized to dielectric tube 52 by connecting means 64. Connecting means 64 is preferably a conductive adhesive. Piezoelectric element 62 and connecting * Trademark ~~ b~7~ ~
means 64 are encapsulated in a polyimide sleeve 66 that serves as means for preventing electrical shorts across piezoelectric element 62. Polyimide sleeve 66 also provides the advantage of preserving the mechanical integrity of the prozimal end 42 of flezible probe 16. A conductive layer 68 surrounds all portions of flezible probe 16 that are not covered by jacket 58.
Conductive layer 68 serves as a means for electrically coupling piezoelectric element 62 to shielding means 56. In the preferred embodiment, conductive layer 68 is composed of a conductive adhesive.
When needle 14 is inserted within a patient's body as shown in Figure 1, for eaample to make an arterial injection) fleaible probe 16 assists the medical professional in locating the artery to receive the injection. Piezoelectric element 62 emits ultrasonic signals that emanate outwardly from the end of needle 14. These ultrasonic signals are reflected off of body structures such as blood vessels and the reflective signals are detected by piezoelectric element 62. It is well known, that the phenomenon known as the Doppler effect can be utilized to accurately locate body structures such as blood vessels. The intensity of the reflected ultrasonic signals will increase as the prozimal end of needle 14 approaches the preselected artery. Hy manipulating needle assembly 10 such that needle 14 moves slightly arcuately within the patient, a user or medical professional can determine whether the needle 14 is directly approaching the preselected artery or vein based upon the information discernible from the reflected ultrasonic signals received by piezoelectric element 62.
The inventive probe can be coupled with conventional power supplies such as 70 to cause piezoelectric element 62 to emit ultrasonic signals and conventional electronics~ for interpreting the information gained from the reflected ultrasonic signals. An ezample of a device which is known to operate and function in the manner just described is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,887,606.
.NO 95/04502 PCT/US94/08733 The inventive probe has the distinct advantage of being adaptable for use within a variety of needles and for a variety of applications. This flezibility and adjustability provides economies and efficiencies in manufacturing and in actual use of a probe. For ezample, the coazial conductor and tube assembly forrning part of probe 15 can be wound onto a reel and removed therefrom depending on the length of probe desired.
Further, the inventive probe can be efficiently used with a variety of catheters. For ezample, a catheter assembly could be appropriately connected to second end 22 of housing 12. After the proper artery is located by using probe 16 and the appropriate length of the needle is inserted into the artery, probe 16 can be moved azially and retracted out of needle 14 and first channel 24 so the catheter can then be inserted into the artery through the needle.
The foregoing description is illustrative rather than limiting in nature. A preferred embodiment has been disclosed to enable one skilled in the art to practice this invention.
Variations and modifications are possible that do not depart from the purview and spirit of this invention; the scope of which is limited only by the appended claims.
Claims (22)
1. A vascular access system for accurately locating body structures, such as blood vessels, within a patient, the system comprising:
a housing having a first opening adapted to be connected to a needle, a second opening axially opposite said first opening adapted to be connected to a syringe, said housing having a first channel with ends at said first and second openings, respectively, said housing having a third opening and a second channel beginning at said third opening and terminating at a medial location in said first channel, said second channel intersecting said first channel at said medial location; and a flexible, axially-movable, and adjustable probe partially disposed within said housing such that said probe extends through said third opening, said second channel, said medial location, a portion of said first channel and said first opening, respectively, such that a portion of said probe extends beyond said housing at said first and third openings, respectively, said probe being axially movable within said first and second channels such that said probe has an adjustable length relative to said housing, said probe being adapted to be axially movable within a needle that is properly attached to said housing first opening, said probe comprising means at one end for emitting ultrasonic signals and for receiving ultrasonic signals that are reflected off of body structures, whereby a user can interpret the reflected signals to thereby locate preselected body structures within a patient.
a housing having a first opening adapted to be connected to a needle, a second opening axially opposite said first opening adapted to be connected to a syringe, said housing having a first channel with ends at said first and second openings, respectively, said housing having a third opening and a second channel beginning at said third opening and terminating at a medial location in said first channel, said second channel intersecting said first channel at said medial location; and a flexible, axially-movable, and adjustable probe partially disposed within said housing such that said probe extends through said third opening, said second channel, said medial location, a portion of said first channel and said first opening, respectively, such that a portion of said probe extends beyond said housing at said first and third openings, respectively, said probe being axially movable within said first and second channels such that said probe has an adjustable length relative to said housing, said probe being adapted to be axially movable within a needle that is properly attached to said housing first opening, said probe comprising means at one end for emitting ultrasonic signals and for receiving ultrasonic signals that are reflected off of body structures, whereby a user can interpret the reflected signals to thereby locate preselected body structures within a patient.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein said third housing opening comprises locking means for temporarily locking said probe in a preselected position relative to said housing to thereby maintain said probe axially fixed within said housing such that the portion of said probe that extends beyond said first opening has a predetermined temporarily fixed length relative to said housing.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein said locking means comprises a first externally threaded member, a second internally threaded member adjustably connected to said first member, and a pressure means adapted to receive said probe such that the relative adjustment of said first and second members causes said pressure means to radially bear against said probe thereby rendering said probe temporarily axially immovable relative to said housing.
4. The system of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein said probe comprises a coaxial cable that has a generally consistent flexibility along the length of said probe.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein said probe comprises:
a conductor surrounded by a dielectric tube;
shielding means surrounding a portion of said dielectric tube such that a proximal end and a predetermined length of said dielectric tube extends beyond said shielding means;
a jacket covering a portion of said shielding means such that a predetermined length of said shielding means extends beyond said jacket, said jacket being distal from said dielectric tube proximal end;
means for anchoring said extending length of said shielding means to said dielectric tube;
a piezoelectric element disposed adjacent said dielectric tube proximal end:
means for connecting said piezoelectric element to said dielectric tube;
means for preventing electrical shorts across said piezoelectric element; and means for electrically coupling said piezoelectric element to said shielding means.
a conductor surrounded by a dielectric tube;
shielding means surrounding a portion of said dielectric tube such that a proximal end and a predetermined length of said dielectric tube extends beyond said shielding means;
a jacket covering a portion of said shielding means such that a predetermined length of said shielding means extends beyond said jacket, said jacket being distal from said dielectric tube proximal end;
means for anchoring said extending length of said shielding means to said dielectric tube;
a piezoelectric element disposed adjacent said dielectric tube proximal end:
means for connecting said piezoelectric element to said dielectric tube;
means for preventing electrical shorts across said piezoelectric element; and means for electrically coupling said piezoelectric element to said shielding means.
6. A probe for use within a needle assembly for sensing the position of body structures, such as blood vessels, within a patient using ultrasonic signals, the probe comprising:
a conductor having a longitudinal length and a diameter that is much smaller than said length;
a dielectric surrounding said conductor;
shielding means surrounding a portion of said dielectric such that a proximal end and a predetermined length of said dielectric extends beyond said shielding means;
a jacket covering a portion of said shielding means such that a predetermined length of said shielding means extends beyond said jacket, said extending length of said shielding means being toward said dielectric proximal end;
means for anchoring said extending length of said shielding means to said dielectric;
a piezoelectric element disposed adjacent said dielectric proximal end;
means for connecting said piezoelectric element to said dielectric;
means for preventing electrical shorts across said piezoelectric element; and means electrically coupling said piezoelectric element to said shielding means.
a conductor having a longitudinal length and a diameter that is much smaller than said length;
a dielectric surrounding said conductor;
shielding means surrounding a portion of said dielectric such that a proximal end and a predetermined length of said dielectric extends beyond said shielding means;
a jacket covering a portion of said shielding means such that a predetermined length of said shielding means extends beyond said jacket, said extending length of said shielding means being toward said dielectric proximal end;
means for anchoring said extending length of said shielding means to said dielectric;
a piezoelectric element disposed adjacent said dielectric proximal end;
means for connecting said piezoelectric element to said dielectric;
means for preventing electrical shorts across said piezoelectric element; and means electrically coupling said piezoelectric element to said shielding means.
7. The probe of claim 6, further comprising means for enhancing bondability between said dielectric and said shielding means.
8. The probe of claim 7, wherein said enhancing means comprises a thin layer of nylon coextruded over said dielectric.
9. The probe of claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein said conductor comprises a flexible solid single strand of copper.
10. The probe of claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein said conductor comprises a flexible solid single strand of silver.
11. The probe of claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein said conductor comprises a flexible solid single strand of silver plated copper.
12. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein said dielectric comprises a Teflon tube.
13. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein said shielding means comprises a foil braid over a drain wire.
14. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein said shielding means comprises a foil wrap over a drain wire.
15. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein said jacket comprises a silicone sheath.
16. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein said jacket comprises a Teflon sheath.
17. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 16, wherein said anchoring means comprises a nonconductive generally cylindrical crimp.
18. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 17, wherein said connecting means comprises a nonconductive adhesive.
19. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 18, wherein said means for preventing electrical shorts across said piezoelectric element comprises a polyimide sleeve that effectively encapsulates said piezoelectric element and said connecting means.
20. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 19, wherein said means for electrically coupling said piezoelectric element to said shielding means comprises a coating of conductive material effectively surrounding all portions of said probe extending beyond said jacket, said coating effectively encapsulating said proximal end of said probe.
21. The probe of any one of claims 6 to 19, wherein said means for electrically coupling said piezoelectric element to said shielding means comprises a conductive adhesive effectively surrounding all portions of said probe extending beyond said jacket, said conductive adhesive effectively encapsulating said proximal end of said probe.
22. A vascular access system comprising:
a housing adapted to be connected to a plurality of hollow needles having varying lengths, said housing having a first channel in communication with a selected needle and a second channel connected to said first channel at a bend portion;
a flexible, axially-movable, and adjustable ultrasonic probe assembly adjustably movable through said second channel, through said bend portion, and into said selected needle, said probe comprising a means at one end for emitting and receiving ultrasonic signals that are reflected of body structures such that said probe has an adjustable length within said selected needle; and means for temporarily securing said flexible probe at a predetermined position within said selected needle.
a housing adapted to be connected to a plurality of hollow needles having varying lengths, said housing having a first channel in communication with a selected needle and a second channel connected to said first channel at a bend portion;
a flexible, axially-movable, and adjustable ultrasonic probe assembly adjustably movable through said second channel, through said bend portion, and into said selected needle, said probe comprising a means at one end for emitting and receiving ultrasonic signals that are reflected of body structures such that said probe has an adjustable length within said selected needle; and means for temporarily securing said flexible probe at a predetermined position within said selected needle.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/102,607 | 1993-08-05 | ||
| US08/102,607 US5484416A (en) | 1993-08-05 | 1993-08-05 | Coaxial cable vascular access system for use in various needles |
| PCT/US1994/008733 WO1995004502A1 (en) | 1993-08-05 | 1994-08-04 | Coaxial cable vascular access system |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2168781A1 CA2168781A1 (en) | 1995-02-16 |
| CA2168781C true CA2168781C (en) | 1999-10-19 |
Family
ID=22290724
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002168781A Expired - Fee Related CA2168781C (en) | 1993-08-05 | 1994-08-04 | Coaxial cable vascular access system |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5484416A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0712294B1 (en) |
| JP (2) | JP3555031B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2168781C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE69431957T2 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1995004502A1 (en) |
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| US20030130657A1 (en) * | 1999-08-05 | 2003-07-10 | Tom Curtis P. | Devices for applying energy to tissue |
| US20050060044A1 (en) * | 1999-08-05 | 2005-03-17 | Ed Roschak | Methods and devices for maintaining patency of surgically created channels in a body organ |
| US20050137715A1 (en) * | 1999-08-05 | 2005-06-23 | Broncus Technologies, Inc. | Methods and devices for maintaining patency of surgically created channels in a body organ |
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| ATE258768T1 (en) * | 1999-08-05 | 2004-02-15 | Broncus Tech Inc | METHOD AND DEVICES FOR PRODUCING COLLATERAL CHANNELS IN THE LUNGS |
| US7815590B2 (en) * | 1999-08-05 | 2010-10-19 | Broncus Technologies, Inc. | Devices for maintaining patency of surgically created channels in tissue |
| US7422563B2 (en) * | 1999-08-05 | 2008-09-09 | Broncus Technologies, Inc. | Multifunctional tip catheter for applying energy to tissue and detecting the presence of blood flow |
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| US20050060042A1 (en) * | 2001-09-04 | 2005-03-17 | Broncus Technologies, Inc. | Methods and devices for maintaining surgically created channels in a body organ |
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-
1993
- 1993-08-05 US US08/102,607 patent/US5484416A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1994
- 1994-08-04 JP JP50648995A patent/JP3555031B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1994-08-04 DE DE69431957T patent/DE69431957T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1994-08-04 CA CA002168781A patent/CA2168781C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1994-08-04 WO PCT/US1994/008733 patent/WO1995004502A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 1994-08-04 EP EP94924111A patent/EP0712294B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2004
- 2004-02-19 JP JP2004043302A patent/JP3699971B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| EP0712294A4 (en) | 1996-10-16 |
| WO1995004502A1 (en) | 1995-02-16 |
| JP3699971B2 (en) | 2005-09-28 |
| JP2004188220A (en) | 2004-07-08 |
| DE69431957D1 (en) | 2003-02-06 |
| EP0712294A1 (en) | 1996-05-22 |
| CA2168781A1 (en) | 1995-02-16 |
| JPH09504442A (en) | 1997-05-06 |
| US5484416A (en) | 1996-01-16 |
| JP3555031B2 (en) | 2004-08-18 |
| EP0712294B1 (en) | 2003-01-02 |
| DE69431957T2 (en) | 2003-09-04 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |