US20170273628A1 - Catheter Assembly Including Transitioning Lumens - Google Patents

Abstract

A catheter assembly including an elongate catheter tube is disclosed. The number of lumens defined by the catheter tube can vary as a function of longitudinal length along the catheter tube. For instance, the catheter tube can define three lumens from the proximal end of the catheter tube and terminate one of the lumens at an intermediate termination point such that only two lumens are defined further distally along the catheter tube. A sensor can be placed in the terminating lumen so as to isolate it from the other lumens and from blood or other body fluids while still enabling the sensor to reside within the patient body when the catheter tube is positioned in the patient for use. In addition to this, various other lumen transition and sensor configurations are disclosed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/313,047, filed Mar. 24, 2016, and titled “Catheter Assembly Including Transitioning Lumens,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BRIEF SUMMARY
• Briefly summarized, embodiments of the present invention are directed to a catheter assembly that includes one or more sensors that can detect and/or monitor various functions, characteristics, and/or vital measurements of a body of a patient in which the catheter assembly is placed. The sensors are placed in various positions in, on, or associated with the catheter assembly. For instance, one or more sensors can be placed so as to be in communication with one or more lumens defined by a catheter tube of the catheter assembly so as to be in contact with fluids present in the lumen(s). Yet other sensors are configured to be in proximity to the patient body but not in fluid communication therewith. Other locations are also possible and contemplated.
• In one embodiment, the number of lumens defined by the catheter tube can vary as a function of longitudinal length along the catheter tube. For instance, the catheter tube can define three lumens from the proximal end of the catheter tube and terminate one of the lumens at an intermediate termination point such that only two lumens are defined further distally along the catheter tube. The terminating lumen in this case can merge with one of the other two lumens, or can simply end at a predetermined longitudinal length along the catheter tube. A sensor can be placed in the terminating lumen so as to isolate it from the other lumens and from blood or other body fluids while still enabling the sensor to reside within the patient body when the catheter tube is positioned in the patient for use. In addition to this and as will be shown further below, various other lumen transition and sensor configurations are possible.
• In one embodiment, therefore, a catheter assembly is disclosed, comprising an elongate catheter tube defining at least one fluid-carrying lumen extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the catheter tube. The catheter tube further defines at least one terminating lumen defined by the catheter tube. The terminating lumen distally extends to a closed distal termination point positioned intermediately between the proximal and distal ends of the catheter tube. The termination point is defined by the catheter tube material. The terminating lumen is configured to be isolated from fluids.
• These and other features of embodiments of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of embodiments of the invention as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• A more particular description of the present disclosure will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. Example embodiments of the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
• FIG. 1 is a side view of a catheter assembly including a plurality of sensors in accordance with one embodiment;
• FIG. 2 is a side view of a catheter tube according to one embodiment;
• FIGS. 3A-3C depict various views of the catheter tube ofFIG. 2;
• FIG. 4 is a side view of a catheter tube according to one embodiment;
• FIGS. 5A and 5B show cross-sectional views of the catheter tube ofFIG. 4 according to one embodiment;
• FIGS. 6A and 6B show cross-sectional views of the catheter tube ofFIG. 4 according to one embodiment;
• FIGS. 7A and 7B show cross-sectional views of the catheter tube ofFIG. 4 according to one embodiment;
• FIG. 8 is a cross sectional side view of a catheter tube including a distally-located sensor according to one embodiment;
• FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter tube with an included sensor lumen in accordance with one embodiment;
• FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter tube with an included sensor lumen in accordance with one embodiment;
• FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter tube with an included sensor wire configuration in accordance with one embodiment;
• FIG. 12 is a cross sectional side view of a catheter tube including a distally-located sensor according to one embodiment;
• FIG. 13 is a cross sectional side view of a catheter tube including a distally-located sensor according to one embodiment;
• FIG. 14 is a cross sectional side view of a catheter tube including a distally-located sensor according to one embodiment;
• FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter tube with an included sensor lumen in accordance with one embodiment;
• FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter tube with an included sensor lumen in accordance with one embodiment;
• FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter tube with an included sensor lumen in accordance with one embodiment;
• FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter tube with an included sensor wire configuration in accordance with one embodiment;
• FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter tube with an included sensor wire configuration in accordance with one embodiment; and
• FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter tube with an included sensor wire configuration in accordance with one embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED EMBODIMENTS
• Reference will now be made to figures wherein like structures will be provided with like reference designations. It is understood that the drawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and are neither limiting nor necessarily drawn to scale.
• For clarity it is to be understood that the word “proximal” refers to a direction relatively closer to a clinician using the device to be described herein, while the word “distal” refers to a direction relatively further from the clinician. For example, the end of a catheter placed within the body of a patient is considered a distal end of the catheter, while the catheter end remaining outside the body is a proximal end of the catheter. Also, the words “including,” “has,” and “having,” as used herein, including the claims, shall have the same meaning as the word “comprising.”
• Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to a catheter assembly that includes one or more sensors that can detect and/or monitor various functions, characteristics, and/or vital measurements of a body of a patient in which the catheter assembly is placed. The sensors are placed in various positions in, on, or associated with the catheter assembly. For instance, one or more sensors can be placed so as to be in communication with one or more lumens defined by a catheter tube of the catheter assembly so as to be in contact with fluids present in the lumen(s). Yet other sensors are configured to be in proximity to the patient body but not in fluid communication therewith. Other locations are also possible and contemplated.
• In accordance with one embodiment, the number of lumens defined by the catheter tube can vary as a function of longitudinal length along the catheter tube. For instance, the catheter tube can define three lumens from the proximal end of the catheter tube and terminate one of the lumens at an intermediate termination point such that only two lumens are defined further distally along the catheter tube. The terminating lumen in this case can merge with one of the other two lumens, or can simply end at a predetermined longitudinal length along the catheter tube. A sensor can be placed in the terminating lumen so as to isolate it from the other lumens and from blood or other body fluids while still enabling the sensor to reside within the patient body when the catheter tube is positioned in the patient for use. In addition to this and as will be shown further below, various other lumen transition configurations are possible.
• In yet another embodiment, various catheter tube lumen configurations are disclosed that enable a sensor to be placed proximate the distal end of the catheter tube, with an accompanying sensor wire(s) extending from the proximal end of the catheter tube to the distally-disposed sensor so as to provide for functionality of the sensor. The sensor wires can be provided a pathway via a dedicated sensor wire lumen, or by incorporation into the catheter tube wall of septum, in one embodiment. These pathways are provided in addition to one or more functional infusion/aspiration lumens also defined by the catheter tube. Placement of the sensor in this manner enables the sensor to be located within the patient body and proximate a desired location while still being included as part of the catheter assembly.
• Reference is first made toFIG. 1, which depicts various details of a catheter assembly (“catheter”), generally designated at10, in accordance with one embodiment. As shown, thecatheter10 includes anelongate catheter tube12 defining one ormore lumens14 extending between a proximal end12A and adistal end12B thereof. The proximal end12A of the catheter tube is operably connected to a bifurcation hub (“hub”)16, which in turn is operably connected to one ormore extension legs18. Aconnector20, such as a luer connector, is disposed on a proximal end of theextension leg18. Thehub16 includes twosuture wings22 that oppositely extend from the body of thehub16. Eachsuture wing22 includes asuture hole24. Note that thehub16 is also referred to herein as a “bifurcation hub” even in cases where only one fluid passageway is defined therethrough.
• In accordance with one embodiment, one or more sensors, also referred to herein as a “sensor array”30, are included with thecatheter10 to enable the detection of data relating to one or more physiological aspects of the patient and/or physical aspects of the catheter when thecatheter tube12 is disposed in the vasculature (as discussed here) or other suitable internal portion of the body of the patient. In the present embodiment, multiple sensors are included with thecatheter10, though the number, type, size, placement, function, and desired uses of the various sensors can vary from what is shown and described herein. Note that thesensor array30 can, in one embodiment, include only one sensor. Note also that, where only one of a particular sensor is discussed below, it is appreciated that more than one of a particular type of sensor can be included, in the same or different locations within the catheter assembly.
• As shown inFIG. 1, apressure sensor32 is included as part of thesensor array30. In the present embodiment, thepressure sensor32 includes a central venous pressure (“CVP”) sensor and is disposed so as enable venous pressure of the patient to be sensed via the fluid (such as blood and/or saline) typically present within thelumen14 of thecatheter tube12. As shown, in the present embodiment thepressure sensor32 is disposed within thehub16 so as to be in operable communication with afluid passageway26 within the hub that is in turn in fluid communication with thelumen14 of the single-lumen catheter tube12 shown inFIG. 1. Other pressure sensor locations can also employed, including within thecatheter tube12, theextension leg18, etc. In one embodiment, thepressure sensor32 is a medical pressure sensor NPC-100 or NPC-120, manufactured by Amphenol Corporation, though other pressure sensors may also be employed. In another embodiment, the pressure sensor includes a strain-sensitive Wheatstone bridge. The sensing surface of thepressure sensor32 in the present embodiment is in direct contact with fluid present in the fluid passageway of thehub16. Note that the size, shape, and other configuration of thehub16 may be increased from what is shown and described herein in order to accommodate thesensor array30, in one embodiment.
• AnECG sensor34, also referred to herein as an ECG electrode or electrical sensor, is also included with the catheter assembly to enable ECG signals emanating from the heart of the patient to be detected, in conjunction with an additional ECG sensor/electrode located on the patient's skin or external portion of the catheter assembly/proximate the catheter assembly, in one embodiment. As shown, in the present embodiment theECG sensor34 is also disposed within thehub16 so as to be in direct contact with fluid present in thehub fluid passageway26 and thelumen14 of thecatheter tube12. Other ECG sensor locations can also be employed, including within thecatheter tube12, theextension leg18, etc. In the present embodiment, theECG sensor34 includes a conductive wire that is able to detect ECG signals of the patient heart that are present in the fluid of thehub fluid passageway26 andcatheter tube lumen14, though other types of ECG sensors can be employed. Further details regarding a system and method for using an ECG sensor for guiding the catheter assembly to a desired position within the body of a patient can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 8,849,382, entitled “Apparatus and Display Methods Relating to Intravascular Placement of a Catheter,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
• As described, thesensor array30—including here thepressure sensor32 and theECG sensor34—is disposed within thehub16, which is sized to provide the needed volume for such sensors. Note that the size, shape, and configuration of thehub16 can vary from what is shown and described in order to house the sensor(s). In other embodiments, the sensors can be located in other portions of thecatheter10, including along or at either end of thecatheter tube12, the extension leg(s)18, etc. Also note that a variety of sensors for detecting body measurements, physiological aspects of the patient, and/or physical aspects of the catheter can be included with the catheter assembly, some of which are discussed further below.
• FIG. 1 further shows that the hub16 (or other suitable location) includes a printed circuit board (“PCB”)36 that is configured to govern operation of thesensor array30, here including thepressure sensor32 and theECG sensor34. In one embodiment, thePCB36 includes a microprocessor for governing sensor operation. In one embodiment, thePCB36 can further include a power source for powering thesensor array30, though in other embodiments the power source can be remotely disposed from the PCB, and even thecatheter10. A non-volatile memory storage location, such as flash memory for instance, can also be included on thePCB36 to enable data sensed by the sensors of thesensor array30 to be temporarily or permanently stored thereon. The storage location can be accessible by a user or can be transmitted to a desired location in a suitable manner.
• In the present embodiment, thePCB36 further includes a transmission module, such as a radio for enabling the PCB to transmit sensor data wirelessly to another receipt location, such as those referred to further above. Such wireless transmission can occur via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, rF, near-field communication (“NFC”), GPS, ANT, ZigBee, or other manner utilizing electromagnetic radiation. In another embodiment, the sensor data can be transmitted from thecatheter10 via a physical connection, such as via a removable physical connection, wires, etc. In another embodiment and as mentioned, sensor data, e.g., central venous pressure, ECG signals, temperature, etc., are stored in a memory location included on thePCB36, or other location on thecatheter10. In yet another embodiment, thePCB36 includes a clock/timer circuit.
• In the present embodiment ofFIG. 1, the suture holes24 of thesuture wings22 are configured to include electrical contacts to provide power to thesensors32 and34 of thesensor array30, as well as to thePCB36. In particular, an annularelectrical contact40 is included in eachsuture hole24 of the bifurcationhub suture wings22, with the electrical contacts being operably connected to thePCB36 andsensor array30. A securement device is configured to be placed on the skin of the patient and operably connect with and secure in place thecatheter10 once the distal portion of the catheter has been inserted into the patient. To that end, the securement device in one embodiment includes a retainer mounted to an adhesive pad, and securement arms that are hinged so as to removably pivot atop thesuture wings22 of the bifurcation hub16 (in a snap-fit arrangement) to secure the bifurcation hub in place.
• In one embodiment, the securement device50 includes additional functionality to provide power to thesensor array30 andPCB36. In detail, the securement device can include two posts, each of which is configured to serve as an electrical contact and each of which is operably connected with a battery, also included in the securement device. The posts are configured to be received within the corresponding suture holes24 of thecatheter suture wings22 such that electrical contact is established with theelectrical contacts40 of the suture holes. The battery included on the securement device can, in this way, provide electrical power to thesensors32,34 and thePCB36 of thecatheter hub16. Of course, other external power sources can be employed. In one embodiment, electrical contacts between the catheter and the securement device can also be utilized to transfer sensor data therebetween. In another embodiment, the securement device can include a radio or other mode for transmitting sensor data received from the catheter. In yet another embodiment, the PCB or a sensor can be included on the securement device. It is appreciated that the size, shape, and other configuration of the securement device can vary from what is shown and described herein. Further details regarding thecatheter assembly10 with one or more included sensors can be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/275,059, filed Sep. 23, 2016, and entitled “Catheter Assembly Including Monitoring Capabilities,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Note that the principles discussed in the present disclosure can be employed in catheters and elongate tubular devices that include no sensor, or one or more sensors as may be appreciated.
• Though shown inFIG. 1 as a dual lumen catheter assembly in the configuration of a PICC, it should be appreciated that this is but one example of a catheter that can benefit from the teachings herein. Indeed, catheters and elongate tubular devices of various types can employ the teachings disclosed herein, including PICCs, CVCs, dialysis catheters, Foley and urinary catheters, feeding tubes, arterial catheters, balloon catheters, PIVs, etc.
• Together withFIG. 1, reference is now made toFIGS. 2 and 3A-3C. In detail,FIG. 2 depicts a portion of thecatheter tube12 of thecatheter assembly10 ofFIG. 1, wherein the catheter tube includes a reduced-diameter portion300, wherein the outer diameter of thecatheter tube12 is reduced relative a more proximal un-reduced portion of the catheter tube. In accordance with one embodiment, the number oflumens14 defined by thecatheter tube12 varies along the longitudinal length of the catheter tube. As seen inFIG. 3A, which shows a cross-sectional view of thecatheter tube12 taken along section A-A (FIG. 2), the catheter tube defines threelumens14A,14B, and14C in a proximal portion of the catheter tube, such as the portion extending distally from thehub16 to aproximal end300A of the reduceddiameter portion300.
• FIG. 3B shows that substantially at theproximal end300A of the reduceddiameter portion300,lumen14C is closed and the area formerly occupied by the lumen becomes part of acatheter tube wall302, indicated by atube wall region301 inFIG. 3B. IndeedFIG. 3B, which is a cross-sectional view of thecatheter tube12 ofFIG. 2 taken along section B-B, shows only the two remaininglumens14A and14B. In the present embodiment, the loss of thelumen14C accounts for the reduced outer diameter size of thecatheter tube12 in the reduceddiameter portion300 as the triple lumen catheter tube transitions to only a dual-lumen catheter tube. The reduceddiameter portion300 in the present embodiment extends the remaining distal length of thecatheter tube12, though this may vary in other embodiments. Reduction of the outer diameter of thecatheter tube12 in the reduceddiameter portion300 results in less occlusion of the vein or other vessel in which the catheter tube is disposed, which in turn can reduce the incidence of deep vein thrombosis and other catheter-related complications. In other embodiments, however, no reduction of the catheter tube size is necessary.
• It is thus appreciated that thelumen14C is considered a terminating lumen as it extends from the proximal end12A of thecatheter tube12 to theproximal end300A of the reduceddiameter portion300, where it terminates at a closed, distal termination point, as seen inFIG. 3C. So configured, the distal termination point of thelumen14C provides a location for the placement of a sensor320 (FIG. 1, 3C) in the lumen, where it can be secured and be protected from removal from thecatheter tube12. Though in the present embodiment thelumen14C remains separate from theother lumens14A and14B, thelumen14C upon termination can combine with another lumen or lumens in other embodiments.
• As mentioned, thesensor320 is placed in a distal portion of the terminatinglumen14C, as seen inFIGS. 1 and 3C, though other placements within the terminatinglumen14C are also possible. Thesensor320 in the present embodiment is a temperature sensor for measuring an internal body temperature of the patient when thecatheter assembly10 is disposed within the body of the patient. Thesensor320 here is representative of a variety of types of sensors and electronic or medical components that can be placed in the terminating lumen to acquire data relating to the patient or to assist in patient care. As such, the disclosure herein is not intended to be limiting.
• It is appreciated that in the present embodiment the terminatinglumen14C is isolated from fluids transported through thecatheter tube12 such that thesensor320 is not in contact with such fluids. In other embodiments, however, fluids could be inserted into the lumen if desired, recognizing that no outlet exists for such fluids other than at the proximal portion of the catheter tube. Or a skive cut or other hole could be defined near the distal end of the terminating lumen in one embodiment to enable direct contact of the sensor with blood of the patient.
• In yet another embodiment, the terminatinglumen14C could be extended in length and open near thedistal end12B of thecatheter tube12, extend proximally as a lumen, and terminate at a relatively more proximal portion of the catheter tube, effectively reversing the configuration shown inFIG. 3C, either with or without the reduced diameter portion of the catheter tube. In yet another embodiment, a first terminating lumen can extend distally from the proximal end of the catheter tube, while another terminating lumen extends proximally from or near the distal end of the catheter tube. These and other configurations are contemplated.
• Note that one or more of a variety of sensors can be included in the terminating lumen, including light-based sensors, glucose meters, blood oxygen sensors, SvO2 sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, CVP sensors, lactic acid sensor, thermistors, etc. Note further that use of a terminating lumen as described herein obviates the use of potting to plug an otherwise patent lumen so a sensor could be placed therein. As such, the potential dislodgement of potting from the catheter tube lumen and entry into the vessel is avoided.
• Note that thecatheter assembly10 ofFIG. 1 includes the threelumens14A,14B, and14C extending distally from the proximal end thereof, but only twoextension legs18. In the present embodiment, the lumens that extend the length of thecatheter tube12, i.e.,lumens14A and14B are correspondingly operably connected to theextension legs18, while the terminatinglumen14C includes an access port at thebifurcation hub16, but no extension leg. In other embodiment, the terminatinglumen14C can share an extension with one of the other lumens, or can be sealed so as to include no access port, in one embodiment. These and other modifications are contemplated.
• It is appreciated that thecatheter tube12 and its lumen configuration as described above in connection withFIGS. 2-3C can be manufactured in one or more ways, though in one embodiment thelumen14C is terminated during an extrusion process. Briefly, an extrusion material is extruded through a properly configured die to form a continuous length of catheter tubing. Pins are positioned in the extrusion pathway to define the various lumens of the catheter tubing, such as thelumens14A,14B, and14C of thecatheter assembly10 shown inFIG. 1, for example. The terminatinglumen14C is formed by removing the corresponding pin that defines the terminating lumen at the desired point during extrusion of the catheter tubing, while keeping the other pins for defining thelumens14A and14B in place. The pressure of injection air blown through the pins to keep the lumens inflated during the extrusion process, together with a pull rate of the catheter tubing as it is pulled from the extrusion machine, can be modified to maintain the catheter tubing and lumen configuration as desired. Once it has sufficiently cured, the catheter tubing is cut into appropriate lengths to form the catheter tube, such as thecatheter tube12 shown inFIG. 1, with the terminatinglumen14C present as has been described above. In another embodiment, no pin is removed; instead, the pull rate and/or injection air pressure are regulated so as to terminate one or more of the lumens along the longitudinal length of the catheter tubing. Generally, it is appreciated that thecatheter tube12 can include more than one terminating lumen, with each of the lumens terminating at different termination points along the length of the catheter tube.
• FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B depict details of a portion of thecatheter tube12 according to another embodiment, wherein the outer diameter of the catheter tube does not vary in diameter along its longitudinal length, in contrast to the catheter tube shown inFIG. 2. As shown by the cross-sectional view of thecatheter tube12 inFIG. 5A, which is taken along the section A-A inFIG. 4, a relatively proximal portion of the catheter tube defines threelumens14A,14B, and14C. In contrast, a relatively more distal portion of thecatheter tube12, as shown byFIG. 5B, which is taken along the section B-B inFIG. 4, defines onlylumens14A and14B, with thethird lumen14C having been terminated at a distal termination point proximal to this cross section, thus becoming a terminating lumen.
• Correspondingly, thelumen14B as shown inFIG. 5B has increased in size to occupy the cross-sectional space formerly occupied by thelumen14C. Thus, it is shown that not only can the number of lumens vary along the longitudinal length of the catheter tube, but the relative sizes of the lumens can vary as well. As before, it is appreciated that thelumen14C terminates at a predetermined distal termination point along the longitudinal length of thecatheter tube12 at a predetermined distance distally from the proximal end12A of the catheter tube. Such a termination point of the terminatinglumen14C provides a suitable location for the placement of a sensor, or for other purposes that may be appreciated. The sensor may be placed in a relatively proximal location within the terminating lumen so as to reside more peripherally (such as in the patient's arm) when the catheter tube is disposed within the patient body, or more distally (such as proximate the patient's heart).
• FIGS. 6A and 6B show another catheter tube lumen transition configuration according to one embodiment, wherein a proximal portion of thecatheter tube12 includes a quad lumenconfiguration including lumens14A,14B,14C, and14D, as shown inFIG. 6A. Thethird lumen14C is a terminating lumen and terminates at a distal termination point of thecatheter tube12 proximal to the cross section shown inFIG. 6B, in the manner described above to transition the catheter tube to a triple lumen catheter tube including onlylumens14A,14B, and14D. Correspondingly, the sizes of thelumens14A,14B, and14D are larger relative their more proximal portions, made possible by the termination of thethird lumen14C. It is appreciated that any one or more of the lumens can be terminated at any one of a variety of termination points along the longitudinal length of thecatheter tube12 to produce a transitioning lumen catheter tube of a variety of configurations. In another embodiment, it is appreciated that one or more lumens can be added at a relatively more distal point to a catheter tube including fewer lumens in the proximal portion of the catheter tube. These and other modifications are contemplated.
• FIGS. 7A and 7B show another catheter tube lumen transition configuration according to one embodiment, wherein a proximal portion of thecatheter tube12 includes a quad lumenconfiguration including lumens14A,14B,14C, and14D, as shown inFIG. 7A. Thesecond lumen14B and thethird lumen14C terminate at a more distal portion of thecatheter tube12, as shown inFIG. 7B, in the manner described above to transition the catheter tube to a dual lumen catheter tube including onlylumens14A and14D. Correspondingly, the sizes of thelumens14A and14D are larger relative their more proximal portions, made possible by the termination of the second andthird lumens14B,14C.
• Reference is now made toFIG. 8, which depicts thecatheter tube12 according to one embodiment. As shown, thecatheter tube12 includes two fluid-carryinglumens14 for infusion and/or aspiration of fluids therethrough that are defined to extend substantially the longitudinal length of the catheter tube. Correspondingside outlets316 are disposed through the catheter tube wall, as shown.
• Asensor320, such as those described further above, is disposed in a distal portion of thecatheter tube12 near adistal end12B there. In the present embodiment, thesensor320 is disposed in a pocket and is isolated from thelumens14 so as to not be in fluid communication therewith, though in other embodiments it is appreciated that the sensor can be placed in fluid communication with one or more fluid-carrying lumens.
• Asensor lumen310 is also included and extends substantially the length of thecatheter tube12 so as to provide a route along which asensor wire324 can extend through the catheter tube to thesensor320 disposed near thedistal end12B thereof. This enables thesensor320 to be electrical powered and/or to provide a route by which data and/or measurements can be transmitted to outside the patient body. Note that thesensor wire324 can extend past the proximal end12A of thecatheter tube12 and include an appropriate connector to enable it to operably connect to a data measurement device or other suitable component, as may be appreciated.
• Note that thecatheter tube12 including the distally placedsensor320 shown inFIG. 8, can be formed in one embodiment by first extruding the catheter tube, then placing thesensor320 andsensor wire324 in place. The distal end is then tipped, such as by rF tipping, to form the closed distal end. In another embodiment, the closed distal end about thesensor320 is formed by adding uncured silicone to the distal portion of an extrudedsilicone catheter tube12, shaping the distal end as needed (such as via a form, cup, or mold), then curing the silicone tip. In yet another embodiment, the distal portion of thecatheter tube12, including thesensor320, can first be formed, then joined to the open distal end of thecatheter tube12 via solvent bonding, epoxy, or other suitable adhesive. These techniques can also be applied to the other embodiments discussed herein.
• Variations to the configuration of thecatheter tube12 as depicted inFIG. 8 are also contemplated.FIG. 12 gives an example of this, wherein only a single fluid-carryinglumen14 is included, together with thesensor lumen310, which is in on offset position.FIG. 13 shows thecatheter tube12 as including three fluid-carryinglumens14 with the offsetsensor lumen310. AndFIG. 14 shows thecatheter tube12 as including two fluid-carryinglumens14 that exit toside openings316, a single fluid-carryinglumen14 that exits at adistal end opening318, and thesensor lumen310 interposed therebetween. Note that any one or more of theside openings316/distal end opening318 can include valved openings, in one embodiment. Also thelumens14 can be configured so as to exit at side openings316 (or other openings) at various distances along the length of the catheter tube. These and other configurations are therefore appreciated as comprising part of the present disclosure.
• FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of thecatheter tube12 according to one embodiment, wherein three fluid-carryinglumens14 are shown as defined by acatheter tube wall302 andsepta322, together with a centrally disposedsensor lumen310. Thesensor lumen310 can be used as a conduit through which one or more wires can be extended to operably connect a sensor disposed in a distal (or other) portion of the catheter tube, such as thesensor320 ofFIG. 8, for instance.
• The size, shape, location, and other configuration of thesensor lumen310 can vary from that shown inFIG. 9. Indeed,FIG. 10 depicts another possible cross-sectional lumen configuration, wherein two fluid-carryinglumens14 are included with a centrally disposedsensor lumen310.FIG. 11 depicts thecatheter tube12 including three fluid-carryinglumens14 and twosensor wires324A,324B disposed in and integrated with thecatheter tube wall302 such that no sensor lumen is required, thus requiring no size sacrifice for fluid-carrying lumens.FIGS. 18 and 19 depict variations of this configuration, wherein thecatheter tube12 defines two fluid-carryinglumens14 and threesensor wires324A,324B, and324 C integrated with the catheter tube wall302 (FIG. 18) or one fluid-carryinglumen14 and foursensor wires324A,324B,324C, and324D.
• FIG. 15 depicts thecatheter tube12 including three fluid-carryinglumens14 and an offsetsensor lumen310.FIG. 16 depicts thecatheter tube12 including two fluid-carryinglumens14 and an offsetsensor lumen310.FIG. 17 depicts thecatheter tube12 including a single fluid-carryinglumen14 and an offsetsensor lumen310.
• It is appreciated that placement and configuration of the integrated sensor wire locations and/or sensor lumen can be implemented in a variety of ways. In one embodiment, the sensor wires can be integrated with theseptum322 instead of thecatheter tube wall302. Also, more than one sensor wire or sensor lumen can be included to operably connect one or more sensors. The wire can include one or more wires, such as in a twisted pair configuration, for example. The number of fluid-carrying lumens can also vary in size, shape, number, etc., as can the size, placement, and configuration of the sensor lumen itself. In addition, note that the size, position, and type of sensors included with the catheter tube can vary from what is shown and described, as can the outlets of the fluid-carrying lumens.
• FIG. 20 shows thecatheter tube12 according to another embodiment, wherein three fluid-carryinglumens14 are included, together with thesensor320 disposed in a distal portion of the catheter tube. Thesensor wire324 extends along the length of an outer surface of thecatheter tube12 to thesensor320. Acover material330 is placed over the sensor wall on the other surface of thecatheter tube12. Thecover material330 can be selected of one of a variety of suitable materials, including polyurethane film, heat-shrink material, etc.
• Embodiments of the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative, not restrictive. The scope of the embodiments is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims (33)

What is claimed is:

1. A catheter assembly, comprising:

an elongate catheter tube formed of a catheter tube material, the catheter tube defining at least one fluid-carrying lumen extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the catheter tube; and

at least one terminating lumen defined by the catheter tube, the terminating lumen extending to a closed termination point positioned intermediately between the proximal and distal ends of the catheter tube, the termination point being defined by the catheter tube material, the terminating lumen configured to be isolated from fluids.

2. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 1, wherein the terminating lumen distally extends from a proximal end of the catheter tube.

3. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 1, wherein the catheter tube is configured to be inserted into a body of a patient.

4. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 3, wherein the termination point of the terminating lumen is disposed within the body of a patient when the catheter assembly is disposed within the body of the patient.

5. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 1, further comprising a sensor disposed in the terminating lumen.

6. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 5, wherein the sensor is disposed proximate the termination point of the terminating lumen.

7. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 5, wherein the sensor is at least one of a light-based sensor, a glucose meter, a blood oxygen sensor, a temperature sensor, and a thermistor.

8. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 5, further comprising at least one wire that extends along the terminating lumen configured to operably connect the sensor to an apparatus separate from the catheter assembly.

9. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 1, wherein an outer diameter of the catheter tube is reduced in size distal to the termination point of the terminating lumen.

10. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 1, wherein the catheter tube includes a plurality of fluid-carrying lumens.

11. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 10, wherein a cross-sectional size of at least one of the fluid-carrying lumens changes at a point distal to the termination point of the terminating lumen relative to a point proximal to the termination point of the terminating lumen.

12. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 10, wherein cross-sectional sizes of the fluid-carrying lumens remain substantially the same at a point distal to the termination point of the terminating lumen relative to a point proximal to the termination point of the terminating lumen.

13. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 1, wherein the terminating lumen includes an access port on a proximal portion of the catheter assembly.

14. A catheter assembly, comprising:

an elongate catheter tube;

at least one fluid-carrying lumen extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the catheter tube;

at least one sensor disposed in a distal portion of the catheter tube, the at least one sensor configured to be isolated from fluids; and

at least one sensor wire extending between a proximal portion of the catheter tube and the at least one sensor.

15. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 14, wherein the at least one sensor wire is disposed in a sensor lumen, the sensor lumen being centrally disposed in the catheter tube.

16. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 14, wherein the at least one sensor wire is disposed in a sensor lumen, the sensor lumen being disposed in an offset configuration in the catheter tube.

17. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 14, wherein the at least one fluid-carrying lumen includes a side hole opening proximate a distal end of the catheter tube, the at least one sensor disposed distal to the side hole opening.

18. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 14, wherein the catheter tube includes at least two fluid-carrying lumens, at least one of the fluid-carrying lumens including a side hole opening proximate a distal end of the catheter tube, the at least one sensor disposed distal to the side hole opening, at least one of the fluid-carrying lumens including a distal end opening at the distal end of the catheter tube.

19. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 14, wherein the sensor wire is integrated into at least one of a septum and a tube wall of the catheter tube.

20. A catheter assembly, comprising:

an elongate catheter tube defining at least one fluid-carrying lumen extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the catheter tube;

at least one terminating lumen defined by the catheter tube, the terminating lumen distally extending from a proximal portion of the catheter tube to a closed distal termination point positioned intermediately between the proximal and distal ends of the catheter tube, the terminating lumen configured to be isolated from fluids;

a sensor disposed in the terminating lumen; and

a sensor wire operably connected to the sensor.

21. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 20, wherein the sensor is disposed proximate the termination point of the terminating lumen.

22. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 21, wherein the terminating lumen distally extends from a proximal end of the catheter tube.

23. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 22, wherein the catheter tube is configured to be inserted into a body of a patient.

24. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 23, wherein the termination point of the terminating lumen is disposed within the body of a patient when the catheter assembly is disposed within the body of the patient.

25. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 23, wherein the sensor is at least one of a light-based sensor, a glucose meter, a blood oxygen sensor, a temperature sensor, and a thermistor.

26. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 20, wherein the at least one fluid-carrying lumen increases in cross-sectional size at a point distal to the termination point of the terminating lumen.

27. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 20, wherein an outer diameter of the catheter tube is reduced in size distal to the termination point of the terminating lumen.

28. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 20, wherein the catheter tube includes a plurality of fluid-carrying lumens.

29. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 28, wherein a cross-sectional size of at least one of the fluid-carrying lumens changes at a point distal to the termination point of the terminating lumen relative to a point proximal to the termination point of the terminating lumen.

30. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 28, wherein cross-sectional sizes of the fluid-carrying lumens remains substantially the same at a point distal to the termination point of the terminating lumen relative to a point proximal to the termination point of the terminating lumen.

31. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 20, wherein the sensor wire is disposed along an outer surface of the catheter tube.

32. The catheter assembly as defined inclaim 31, wherein the sensor wire is covered by a cover material including at least one of a polyurethane film and a shrink material.

33. A method for manufacturing a catheter tube, the method comprising:

extruding continuous tubing defining a plurality of lumens from an extrusion material along an extrusion pathway, the extrusion pathway including a plurality of extrusion pins;

while extruding the continuous tubing, removing at least one of the extrusion pins from the extrusion pathway to reduce the number of lumens defined by the continuous tubing;

altering at least one of a extrusion pull rate and an injection air pressure employed in extruding the continuous tubing after removal of the at least one extrusion pin; and

cutting the continuous tubing to define the catheter tube, the catheter tube including at least one terminating lumen that terminates at an intermediate position between a proximal end and a distal end of the catheter tube.

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