Lead Inventors:
Judah Weinberger, M.D., Ph.D.
Catheters, Patients Damaged by Y Adaptors:
Most of current catheters have a ""Y"" adaptor at the proximal end, with two or more ports for the introduction of and removal of guide wires, catheters, et al. Through this ""Y"" adaptor, one or more different catheters will be advanced or ""exchanged"" over the guide wire.
Existent Y-adaptors have the drawback that they sometimes will damage expensive, mechanically fragile catheters when the clamp is tightened or inhibit intra-catheter movement. In addition, there may be a significant blood loss, particularly during certain catheter exchanges.
This technology described a catheter protective device, modifying the existent ""Y"" adaptors to reduce blood loss and to minimize catheter damage.
Catheter Protective Tube:
This catheter protective device comprises a non-crushable tubular member with a hemostatic valve capable of being inserted into the Y-adaptor proximal end. The tubular member has a seal, which comprises an O-ring and a one way valve to seal any annular space between the tubular member and the fastener. The tubular member protects a catheter from being crushed by a fastener on the Y-adaptor and minimizes blood bleed-back.
Applications:
• Catheter protective device particularly for non-invasive cardiological procedures
Advantages:
• Minimizes damage to catheters that are secured by Y-adaptors in vascular procedures
• Minimizes blood loss during certain intravascular procedures
• Compatible with existing catheters, Y-adaptors
Patent Status: Issued Patent (
US 6,258,072)
Licensing Status: Available for Licensing and Sponsored Research Support