Curved Needle for Infraclavicular Procedures

Story Behind the Invention

Inventor Douglas Banes Coffman of Oklahoma City, OK has developed a specialized introduction needle used with central lines located in the subclavian vein.

In medicine, a central line is a catheter placed into a large vein in the body that is used to administer medication or to directly obtain cardiovascular measurements. One popular location for such central lines is the subclavian vein in the chest area. However, such a location, coupled with poor placement, can result in collapsed lung or laceration of the vein. In order to avoid such complications, it is important to know where the bevel on the needle is at all times in order to allow for a proper orientation. Additionally, the straight nature of conventional needles does not lend itself very well to being placed properly. Inventor Coffman has created a means by which a subclavian catheter can be placed without the former disadvantages.

This clever new invention allows uncomplicated placement of central-lines. It consists of a curved introducer needle, beveled tip and a conventional type fitting. Additionally, the fitting comprises a tab that further assists in the placement of central lines and dialysis catheters. The use of the Curved Needle for Infraclavicular Procedures provides a method of securing a subclavian central line in a manner which is not only quick, easy, and effective, but reduces complications.