Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A lockable sleeve drainage catheter is disclosed for percutaneous insertion into a patient and drainage of fluid therefrom. The drainage catheter includes a flexible distal end that is preformed for retaining the distal end of the catheter that is inserted in the patient. For insertion, the distal end is straightened with the use of a stiffening cannula that is inserted through the hollow passageway of the catheter. When the catheter is inserted in the patient, the stiffening cannula is removed, and a flexible tension member positioned within the passageway of the catheter is drawn to position the distal end in the desired retention configuration. A lockable sleeve positioned at the proximal end of the catheter draws the flexible tension member through the passageway of the elongated member tube to position the distal end in the retention configuration. The catheter also includes a locking collar at the proximal end of the elongated member tube having an annular recess formed therein. The distal end of the lockable sleeve includes an annular step for engaging the recess of the collar and locking the sleeve in a fixed position relative to the elongated member tube of the catheter. When fully extended and locked, the sleeve and elongated member form a fluid tight interconnection. A Luer lock connector is affixed to the proximal end of the sleeve for connection to a drainage collection system.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim