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WO1999037348A1 - Systeme de catheter pour implanter des embryons - Google Patents

Systeme de catheter pour implanter des embryons Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1999037348A1
WO1999037348A1 PCT/US1998/001660 US9801660W WO9937348A1 WO 1999037348 A1 WO1999037348 A1 WO 1999037348A1 US 9801660 W US9801660 W US 9801660W WO 9937348 A1 WO9937348 A1 WO 9937348A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
catheter
sleeve
distal end
uterus
cylindrical hollow
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.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US1998/001660
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Jun Tao
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to AU62540/98A priority Critical patent/AU6254098A/en
Priority to EP98904741A priority patent/EP1049505A4/fr
Publication of WO1999037348A1 publication Critical patent/WO1999037348A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00—Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/0067—Catheters; Hollow probes characterised by the distal end, e.g. tips
    • A61M25/0074—Dynamic characteristics of the catheter tip, e.g. openable, closable, expandable or deformable
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
    • A61B17/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods
    • A61B17/42—Gynaecological or obstetrical instruments or methods
    • A61B17/425—Gynaecological or obstetrical instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation
    • A61B17/435—Gynaecological or obstetrical instruments or methods for reproduction or fertilisation for embryo or ova transplantation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00—Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/01—Introducing, guiding, advancing, emplacing or holding catheters
    • A61M25/0105—Steering means as part of the catheter or advancing means; Markers for positioning
    • A61M25/0111—Aseptic insertion devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2210/00—Anatomical parts of the body
    • A61M2210/14—Female reproductive, genital organs
    • A61M2210/1433—Uterus
    • A61M2210/145—Embryo, fetus
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M25/00—Catheters; Hollow probes
    • A61M25/0067—Catheters; Hollow probes characterised by the distal end, e.g. tips
    • A61M25/0068—Static characteristics of the catheter tip, e.g. shape, atraumatic tip, curved tip or tip structure

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a catheter system for implanting embryos into a woman's uterus. More particularly, this invention concerns such a catheter system utilizing a protective catheter sleeve for introducing a catheter into the uterus without mucus contamination. And it concerns an improved catheter construction for embryo protection and deposit . Description of the Prior Art
  • the prior art includes some catheter-type devices for use in embryo implantation.
  • Bacich U.S. Pat. No. 5,472,419 and Fischl U.S. Pat. No. 4,790,814 both employ the use of a catheter-type device, each having distal end openings to allow passage of the embryos to the uterus .
  • these devices may be used for embryo implantation, they do not adequately address the problem of preventing the accumulation of mucuslike material at the distal end opening, which may interfere with embryo implantation.
  • Other embryo implanting devices employ the use of a catheter enclosed within an outer sleeve. For example, Wallace's GB No.
  • 2,118,840 employs the use of an inner catheter slidable within an outer sleeve where the distal end of the outer sleeve is open. Though this device might also be suitable for embryo implantation, it fails to teach or implement an efficient way to protect against mucus accumulation within the outer sleeve during insertion.
  • Other medical devices in fields other than embryo implantation employ the use of a catheter enclosed within an outer sleeve.
  • Pokorney U.S. Pat. No. 5,083,572 employs the use of an inner catheter slidable within an outer sleeve for use in obtaining vaginal secretions; but the purpose and construction are to bring in secretions/mucus within the outer sleeve, not to keep them out.
  • a primary object of the present invention is to fulfill the above-mentioned needs by the provision of an improved catheter system for implanting embryos.
  • a further primary object of the present invention is to provide such a catheter system which is efficient, inexpensive, and handy.
  • this invention provides a catheter system for assisting implanting embryos in a uterus, comprising: catheter sleeve means, having a sleeve distal end and a sleeve proximal end and having, between such sleeve distal end and such sleeve proximal end, a longitudinal cylindrical hollow having a central longitudinal axis, such catheter sleeve means being structured and arranged for containing an inner catheter in such cylindrical hollow, such catheter sleeve means comprising end cap means, disposed along an intersection of such central axis at such sleeve distal end, for substantially enclosing such cylindrical hollow at such sleeve distal end to protect such cylindrical hollow from accumulating mucuslike material when such catheter sleeve means is inserted into a such uterus, such end cap means comprising end opening means, disposed along such intersection of such central axis at such sleeve distal end, for permitting
  • this invention provides such a system wherein such end opening means of such sleeve distal end comprises swivel means constructed and arranged in such manner that such end cap means swivels outward when an inner catheter is pushed through such sleeve distal end; and, further, wherein such end cap means comprises an outwardly convex flexible end on such catheter sleeve means and such end cap opening means comprises a partial transverse cut separating, except for a remaining transverse hinge portion, such outwardly convex flexible end from such catheter sleeve means, whereby such end cap means is constructed and arranged to swivel outward when an inner catheter is pushed through such sleeve distal end.
  • an inner catheter means having a catheter distal end and a catheter proximal end, for transporting a such embryo through such cylindrical hollow of such outer sleeve means into access to such uterus and for depositing such embryo in such uterus; and, further, wherein such inner catheter means comprises indicia means for indicating longitudinal distance to assist in attaining a desired implanting location.
  • this invention provides such a system wherein such catheter distal end comprises: catheter distal opening means for depositing such embryo, such catheter distal opening means comprising a side port, adjacent such catheter distal end of such inner catheter means . And it provides such a system wherein such catheter distal end comprises: second end cap means at such catheter distal end for protecting such inner catheter means when such catheter distal end is pushed through such sleeve distal end; and catheter distal opening means for depositing such embryo, such catheter distal opening means comprising a side port adjacent such second end cap means at such catheter distal end of such inner catheter means; and, further, wherein such catheter distal end further comprises strengthening means opposite such catheter distal opening means for strengthening such inner catheter means against breakage.
  • such end opening means at such sleeve distal end of such catheter sleeve means comprises swivel means constructed and arranged in such manner that such end cap means swivels outward when such catheter distal end is pushed through such sleeve distal end.
  • such catheter sleeve means further comprises first stop means for limiting insertion to a desired location when such catheter sleeve means is inserted into a such uterus; and, further, wherein such inner catheter means further comprises second stop means settable along such inner catheter means for limiting insertion to a desired implanting location when such inner catheter means is inserted into a such uterus. And it provides such a system wherein such catheter sleeve means further comprises stop means for limiting insertion to a desired location when such catheter sleeve means is inserted into a such uterus .
  • the present invention provides a catheter system for implanting embryos in a uterus, comprising: a catheter outer sleeve having a longitudinal cylindrical hollow between a sleeve distal end and a sleeve proximal end, for providing safe catheter access to a such uterus by a catheter having a catheter distal end and a catheter proximal end; such sleeve distal end comprising an outwardly convex end cap, for protecting such cylindrical hollow from accumulating mucuslike material when such catheter outer sleeve is inserted into a such uterus, and an outwardly-swivelable connection between such end cap and such catheter outer sleeve, for permitting passage of a such catheter distal end from such cylindrical hollow into a such uterus when such catheter distal end is pushed against such end cap to swivel such end cap outwardly and move such catheter distal end through such sleeve distal end.
  • this invention provides such a system furthe comprising: an inner catheter means, having a catheter distal end and a catheter proximal end, for transporting a such embryo through such cylindrical hollow of such outer sleeve into access to such uterus and for depositing such embryo in such uterus .
  • catheter distal end comprises : an outwardly convex second end cap for protecting such inner catheter means when such catheter distal end is pushed through such sleeve distal end; and a catheter distal opening for depositing a such embryo, such catheter distal opening comprising a side port adjacent such second end cap.
  • Such a system further comprising: locating means for locating such catheter distal end in a such uterus, such locating means comprising first stop means on such catheter outer sleeve for abutting a cervix entrance to such uterus, and second stop means settable along such inner catheter means for limiting insertion of such catheter distal end of such inner catheter means to a desired implanting location when such inner catheter means is inserted into a such uterus .
  • a catheter system for implanting embryos in a uterus comprising, in combination, the steps of : providing a catheter outer sleeve having a longitudinal cylindrical hollow between a sleeve proximal end and a sleeve distal end having an outwardly convex end cap and an outwardly-swivelable connection between such end cap and such catheter outer sleeve; providing a catheter having a catheter proximal end and a catheter distal end having an opening for transmission of a such embryo, such catheter being sized for moving through such longitudinal cylindrical hollow; loading at least one such embryo into such catheter distal end; placing such catheter into such sleeve proximal end of such catheter outer sleeve and moving such catheter forward until such catheter distal end is approaching such sleeve distal end; introducing such sleeve proximal end into a such uterus to a desired stop location; further moving such catheter forward into
  • such catheter distal end of such catheter comprises: a second end cap for protecting such catheter when such catheter distal end is pushed through such sleeve distal end; and a catheter distal opening for depositing a such embryo, such catheter distal opening comprising a side port adjacent such second end cap; and, further, wherein: such catheter outer sleeve further comprises first stop means located along such catheter outer sleeve for limiting insertion to such desired stop location when such catheter outer sleeve is inserted into a such uterus; and such catheter further comprises second stop means settable along such catheter for limiting insertion to such desired implanting location when such inner catheter means is inserted into a such uterus .
  • this invention provides, for use in a catheter system for implanting embryos in a uterus, wherein the steps in such system include providing a catheter outer sleeve having a longitudinal cylindrical hollow between a sleeve proximal end and a sleeve distal end having an outwardly convex end cap and an outwardly-swivelable connection between such end cap and such catheter outer sleeve, providing a catheter having a catheter proximal end and a catheter distal end having an opening for transmission of a such embryo, such catheter being sized for moving through such longitudinal cylindrical hollow, loading at least one such embryo into such catheter distal end, placing such catheter into such sleeve proximal end of such catheter outer sleeve and moving such catheter forward until such catheter distal end is approaching such sleeve distal end, introducing such sleeve proximal end into a such uterus to a desired stop location, further moving such
  • this invention provides, in accordance with a preferred embodiment thereof, a catheter system for assisting implanting embryos in a uterus wherein such end opening means is a slit, normally closed but openable for permitting passage of a such inner catheter pushed along such central axis from within such cylindrical hollow into a such uterus. It also provides such a system wherein such end opening means of such sleeve distal end is a cross-cut slit, normally closed but openable for permitting passage of a such inner catheter pushed along such central axis from within such cylindrical hollow into a such uterus.
  • FIG. 1 is a partial sectional elevation view illustrating a preferred embodiment of a catheter system for implanting embryos, according to the present invention, shown inserted into a woman's uterus.
  • FIG. 2 is an exploded elevation view of the catheter system.
  • FIG. 3 is an enlarged, fragmented elevation view, in cross section, of a preferred embodiment of the outer sleeve of the catheter system.
  • FIG. 4 is a enlarged elevation view of the introducing- implanting end of the outer sleeve.
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-section plan view of the outer sleeve through section 5-5 of Fig.4.
  • FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the outer sleeve end, shown in its open position.
  • FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional elevation view of the implanting end of the inner catheter.
  • FIG. 8 is an enlarged elevation view of the implanting end of the inner catheter.
  • FIG. 9 is a cross-section plan view of the inner catheter through section 9-9 of Fig. 8.
  • FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-section partial elevation view showing the inner catheter within the outer sleeve at its implanting end.
  • FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of the implanting end of the inner catheter.
  • FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of the implanting end of the inner catheter.
  • FIGS. 13 through 19 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the method of use of the catheter system of the present invention.
  • FIG. 20 is a enlarged elevation view of the introducing- implanting end of the outer sleeve illustrating alternate, but less preferred, embodiments of the end opening means.
  • FIG. 21 is a top view of the embodiments of FIG. 20 illustrating a first alternate embodiment of the end opening means .
  • FIG. 22 is a top view of the embodiments of FIG. 20 illustrating a second alternate embodiment of the end opening means .
  • FIG.l Shown in FIG.l is a preferred embodiment of the catheter system 20 of the present invention, shown inserted into the uterus 21 of a woman for the purpose of depositing embryos 22.
  • the catheter system 20 is comprised of catheter sleeve means embodied by catheter outer sleeve 24 and inner catheter means embodied by an inner catheter 25.
  • the outer sleeve 24 contains and protects the inner catheter 25 (the two being concentrically disposed) , and the embryos 22 within, while the catheter system 20 is inserted into the vagina, through the cervix 26, and into the uterus 21. Then there is performed embryo depositing and placement at a predetermined depth (from the exterior of the cervix) Dl within the uterus 21. Once deposited within the uterus 21, the embryos 22 will normally eventually attach to the uterus wall 27.
  • the outer sleeve 24 is substantially tubular, as shown, and has a longitudinal round-cylindrical hollow 28 (having interior surface 30) appropriately sized for loosely containing the inner catheter 25 and extending the full length of the outer sleeve 24 (i.e., from its distal or depositing end 31 to its proximal or manipulating end 40) .
  • end cap means Integral with the outer sleeve 24, and at its depositing end 31, is end cap means preferably embodied by a swivelable cap 32 which remains in a closed position 33 (see FIGS. 3, 4, and 10) , closing, streamlining, and protecting the depositing end 31, and blocking the cylindrical hollow 28, until being pushed forwardly to an open position 34 by the extending movement of the inner catheter 25.
  • the swivelable cap 32 while remaining in a closed position 33, protects the interior of the outer sleeve 24 at the depositing end 31 from accumulating deposits of mucus 35 when the outer sleeve 24 is inserted through the cervix 26.
  • the outer sleeve 24 incorporates a stop means embodied by a flange 36 extending outwardly perpendicular from the outer sleeve 24 and of a diameter suitable for providing a limiting stop 37 at the entrance 38 of the cervix 26, and thus controlling the depth D2 that the outer sleeve 24 can be inserted into the cervix 26.
  • This depth D2 is greater than the distance required to pass through the cervix 26, but less than the depth desired for depositing the embryos 22.
  • This portion of the outer sleeve 24 (which is inserted through the cervix 26 to depth D2) , extending from flange 36 to the swivelable cap 32, is the insertable portion 29 which is relatively small in outside diameter and flexible enough for conforming to the shape of the cervical passage.
  • the outer sleeve 24 incorporates an increased outer diameter 41 for added rigidity in controlling the insertion of the catheter system 20 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention into the cervix 26. Also incorporated as a feature of the increased outer diameter 41 portion, located near the manipulating end 40, is handle means 42 for convenience of grasping the outer sleeve 24. Located at the manipulating end 40 of the outer sleeve 24 is a second flange 43 useful (as will be described) for controlling the movement of the inner catheter 25 in providing the desired implanting depth Dl .
  • the inner catheter 25 is a hollow, flexible, very-small- diameter longitudinal tube, sized to fit, and be free to slide concentrically within, the longitudinal cylindrical hollow 28 of the outer sleeve 24 along its axis or centerline CL (see FIG. 3) .
  • the inner catheter 25 preferably incorporates an integral domed end cap 44 with a side port 45 interconnecting to the round- cylindrical interior passage 57 of the inner catheter 25.
  • a receiver 47 into which a syringe 48 may be inserted.
  • the distal or depositing end 39 of the inner catheter 25 is loaded with buffer solution and embryos, then inserted into the manipulating end 40 of the outer sleeve 24 far enough so that the depositing end 39 approaches but does not contact the swivelable cap 32 (in its normal closed position) ; thus the depositing end 39 of the inner catheter 25 is not yet protruding from the depositing end 31 of the outer sleeve 24.
  • the desired depth Dl at which the embryos are to be deposited is determined.
  • a snug- fitting second stop means embodied by movable stop 50 is positioned on the inner catheter 25 a corresponding distance away from the second flange 43 of the outer sleeve 24.
  • the catheter system 20 is then inserted into the uterus 21 through the cervix 26. Any mucus 35 that the insertable portion 29 of the outer sleeve 24 encounters and picks up remains on its exterior.
  • the inner catheter 25, held concentrically by the outer sleeve 24, is pushed forward along the axis or longitudinal centerline CL of the outer sleeve 24 the distance available until the movable stop 50 contacts the outer sleeve's second flange 43.
  • This arrangement embodies in this invention an end cap means, disposed along an intersection of such central axis at such sleeve distal end, for substantially enclosing such cylindrical hollow at such sleeve distal end to protect such cylindrical hollow from accumulating mucuslike material when such catheter sleeve means is inserted into a such uterus, such end cap means comprising end opening means, disposed along such intersection of such central axis at such sleeve distal end, for permitting passage of an inner catheter along such central axis from within such cylindrical hollow into a such uterus.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates the relative proportions of the components of the catheter system 20, shown un-assembled, and composed of the outer sleeve 24, inner catheter 25 and the movable stop 50. Additionally illustrated in enlarged shortened cross section in FIG. 3 is the outer sleeve 24.
  • Its features include the insertable portion 29 extending from the depositing end 31, with the swivelable cap 32 located centrally at the axis or centerline CL, to the flange 36 whose upper surface is the limiting stop 37 to restrict further insertion into the cervix 26.
  • the outer sleeve 24 Extending from the flange 36 to the manipulating end 40, the outer sleeve 24 is of increased outer diameter 41.
  • a second flange 43 for providing a gauging surface with which the movable stop 50 may make contact.
  • the longitudinal round-cylindrical hollow 28 extends from depositing end 31 to manipulating end 40 along axis or centerline CL .
  • the movable stop 50 is made of silicone and has an inside diameter that is sized for a snug fit over the outside diameter of the concentrically-located inner catheter 25. The fit allows the movable stop 50 to be positioned as required on the inner catheter 25, yet remain in that position during use.
  • the inner catheter 25 has a depositing end 39 and at the opposite (proximal) end, a receiver 47 with an appropriately-sized internal socket for the snug-fitting attachment of a syringe.
  • the proportional lengths of the outer sleeve 24 and the inner catheter 25 are such that a first person can insert and position the outer sleeve 24 within the patient and advance the inner catheter 25 while a second person can, from a convenient distance, handle the syringe 48 and perform the flushing of the embryos into the uterus .
  • the depositing end 31 is shown in elevation view in FIG. 4, in cross-section in FIG. 5 and in perspective in FIG. 6.
  • the material from which the entire outer sleeve 24 is constructed could preferably be siliconized polyvinylchloride, plastisol polyvinyl , or polyethylene.
  • either the entire insertable portion 29, or the end 0.5-1.0 centimeter of the depositing end 31 of the insertable portion 29 could be made of such just-mentioned material whereas the remainder of the outer sleeve 24 could be constructed of borosilicate .
  • the insertable portion 29 preferably is about 1.8-2.0 millimeters in outside diameter with a length of about 3.5 centimeters.
  • the increased outer diameter 41 portion is preferably about 4.0 millimeters in outside diameter.
  • the depositing end 31 could be initially completely blocked with an integral outwardly convex end (preferably hemispherical) , then a very thin transverse cut 55 (see FIG.
  • FIG. 20 in a view similar to that of FIG. 4 but without the transverse cut 55
  • the outer sleeve 24 comprising an insertable portion 29 having an approximately hemispherical depositing end 31.
  • the first alternate embodiment of the end opening means embodied by a single cut or slit 53 (53A in FIG. 21) on the hemispherical depositing end 31 of outer sleeve 24.
  • FIG. 21 is a top view illustrating the cut or slit 53A.
  • FIG. 22 is an alternate top view of FIG. 20 illustrating a second alternate embodiment of the end opening means which is embodied by a cross-cut slit 53B on the hemispherical depositing end 31 of outer sleeve 24.
  • the single slit 53A and the cross-cut slit 53B in, respectively, the first and second alternate embodiments of the end opening means are normally closed to maintain a closed depositing end 31 along the axis or centerline CL but are openable when and if catheter distal end 39 is pushed through said sleeve distal end 31 (occurring also along axis or centerline CL) .
  • the second alternate embodiment embodies herein such a system wherein such end opening means of such sleeve distal end is a cross-cut slit, normally closed but openable for permitting passage of a such inner catheter pushed along such central axis from within such cylindrical hollow into a such uterus.
  • the inner catheter 25, is a lengthy (preferably about 70 centimeters in overall length) flexible tube preferably constructed in one piece of teflon or polyethylene with about a 0.5 millimeter inside diameter and about a 1.2 millimeter outside diameter (with the exception, of course, of the described special features at both ends) .
  • the receiver 47 for accepting a syringe 48 (see FIG. 1) .
  • a second end cap means embodied by a domed end cap 44 (roughly hemispherical for fending off mucus and pushing smoothly on swivelable cap 32) and also catheter distal opening means embodied by side opening or port 45 for discharging the embryos to be deposited.
  • the round domed end cap 44 is shown blocking the straight through flow path of the interior passage 57.
  • the side port 45 Located through the side wall, directly under the domed end cap 44, is the side port 45, which is preferably a round opening which intersects with, and completes the interior passage 57 allowing a side discharge path.
  • structural strength is compromised, and as a preventative against breakage, strengthening means embodied by the strengthened intersection 58, radiused with additional material, is provided.
  • the intersection 58 being radiused, also provides for a smoother, more streamlined flow path. This helps in cleaning, loading and flushing the inner catheter 25.
  • indicia means embodied by indicia or markings 60, which are evenly spaced and continue the full length on the exterior of the inner catheter 25. These markings 60 may be graduated divisions referring to the volume of the interior passage 57 beginning at the side port 45. Their use is described, for example, in FIGS. 14A-14C.
  • Indicia means for indicating longitudinal distance to assist in attaining a desired implanting location embodied by similar additional graduated markings 60 (see FIG.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates in cross-section the depositing ends 31 of the outer sleeve 24, and within its cylindrical hollow 28, the inner catheter 25, both positioned approximately as they would be while being inserted into the desired uterus position.
  • the inner catheter 25 With the swivelable cap 32 in its normally closed position 33, the inner catheter 25 is protected from any accumulation of mucus.
  • the domed end cap 44 contacts the underside of the swivelable cap 32 of the outer sleeve 24, pushing it to the open position 34 (shown by dotted lines) as the hinge 56 flexes.
  • any remaining mucus which may be encountered is pushed aside or collected on the domed end cap 44 and not forced into the side port 45.
  • FIGS. 11 & 12 incorporate alternate methods of construction with the interior passage 57 continuing straight and unobstructed, without the domed end cap, and exiting the end of the inner catheter 25.
  • FIG. 11 incorporates side wall relief or opening means embodied by two reliefs 61, spaced at 180 degrees apart, at the end of the inner catheter 25.
  • the inner catheter 25 of FIG. 12 incorporates a blunt end opening 62.
  • FIGS. 13 through 19 describe pictorially the steps involved in the use of the catheter system 20.
  • a sounding is performed to determine the depth of the uterus 21 and the distance Dl from the entrance 38 of the cervix 26 to the location within the uterus 21 where the embryos 22 are to be deposited for implanting.
  • the depositing end 39 of the inner catheter 25 is inserted into the interior of the outer sleeve 24 at the manipulating end 40 and the movable stop 50 is adjusted to the proper position as shown in FIG. 13.
  • "S" represents the depth of the uterus 21 as determined by the sounding.
  • the desired depth at which the embryos are to be deposited is shown as Dl .
  • D2 is the distance that the insertable portion 29 of the outer sleeve
  • D3 is the distance that the inner catheter 25 will be required to extend beyond the end of the outer sleeve 24 for implanting at the desired depth Dl .
  • D4 is the distance that the inner catheter 25 will be short of exiting from within the outer sleeve 24 when the implanting process is begun. The sum of distances D3 and D4 is El, the extending distance, the amount the inner catheter
  • the extending distance El is equal to E2 , the measurement at which the snug fitting movable stop 50 is to be positioned, the distance short of contacting the second flange 43 at the manipulating end 40 of the outer sleeve 24.
  • markings 60 may be incorporated on inner sleeve 25 to provide dimensional aid in locating movable stop 50 at distance E2 from second flange 43.
  • FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C show inner catheter 25 appropriately loaded with buffer solution 63, two air spaces 64 and embryos 22, with markings 60 used to determine quantities.
  • the inner catheter 25 pushes aside the swivelable cap 32 (or through the less preferred slits 53) of the outer sleeve 24 to the open position 34.
  • the depositing end 39 of the inner catheter 25 is properly positioned in the uterus 21 for implanting.
  • This injection transfers a small amount of buffer solution 63 along with the embryos 22 from the side port 45 into a desired location within the uterus 21 where the embryos 22 may attach the uterus wall 27. Then, after such implanting, the catheter system 20 is to remain unmoved for about one minute. Then, carefully withdraw the outer sleeve 24 and inner catheter 25 from the patient, and, as shown in FIG. 19, with a microscope 66, insure that embryos do not remain in the inner catheter 25.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
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  • Hematology (AREA)
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  • Reproductive Health (AREA)
  • Pregnancy & Childbirth (AREA)
  • Gynecology & Obstetrics (AREA)
  • Nuclear Medicine, Radiotherapy & Molecular Imaging (AREA)
  • Transplantation (AREA)
  • Medical Informatics (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Media Introduction/Drainage Providing Device (AREA)
  • Surgical Instruments (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un syst�me de cath�ter (20) destin� � implanter des embryons dans l'ut�rus d'une femme. Ce syst�me de cath�ter (20) utilise un manchon protecteur (24) permettant d'introduire un cath�ter (25) dans l'ut�rus, sans qu'il y ait contamination du cath�ter int�rieur (25) par le mucus. Une fois que l'on a introduit le manchon (24) renfermant le cath�ter int�rieur (25) dans l'ut�rus, on pousse le cath�ter int�rieur prot�g� (25), transportant les embryons, � travers un embout distal pivotant (32) se trouvant sur le manchon (24), jusque dans un emplacement d'implantation voulu. L'extr�mit� distale du cath�ter int�rieur (25) comporte un embout protecteur (44) et une ouverture lat�rale (45) destin�e � la lib�ration des embryons. Des �l�ments du manchon ext�rieur (24) et du cath�ter int�rieur (25) contribuent � atteindre un emplacement voulu pour l'implantation dans l'ut�rus.
PCT/US1998/001660 1998-01-22 1998-01-23 Systeme de catheter pour implanter des embryons Ceased WO1999037348A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU62540/98A AU6254098A (en) 1998-01-22 1998-01-23 Catheter system for implanting embryos
EP98904741A EP1049505A4 (fr) 1998-01-22 1998-01-23 Systeme de catheter pour implanter des embryons

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US1087698A 1998-01-22 1998-01-22
US09/010,876 1998-01-22

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1999037348A1 true WO1999037348A1 (fr) 1999-07-29

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1998/001660 Ceased WO1999037348A1 (fr) 1998-01-22 1998-01-23 Systeme de catheter pour implanter des embryons

Country Status (3)

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EP (1) EP1049505A4 (fr)
AU (1) AU6254098A (fr)
WO (1) WO1999037348A1 (fr)

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2002003873A3 (fr) * 2000-07-10 2002-05-10 Us Health Sondes a radiofrequence pour traitement tissulaire et methodes d'utilisation
AU763964B2 (en) * 1999-09-24 2003-08-07 Cook Urological Inc. Embryo transfer catheter
US7637904B2 (en) 2003-12-19 2009-12-29 Vance Products Incorporated Catheter with snap on feature
WO2010100373A1 (fr) * 2009-03-04 2010-09-10 Assistance Publique - Hopitaux De Paris Cathéter, notamment pour l'implantation d'embryons dans une cavité utérine d'un être humain ou animal, et instrument correspondant.
RU2444315C1 (ru) * 2010-09-03 2012-03-10 Михаил Григорьевич Шнейдерман Способ повышения возможности удачной имплантации эмбриона к эндометрию полости матки
EP4265206A1 (fr) * 2022-04-19 2023-10-25 Premium Fertility S.L Système de transfert d'embryons
WO2023203052A1 (fr) * 2022-04-19 2023-10-26 Premium Fertility S.L. Système de transfert d'embryons

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US4652259A (en) 1984-04-10 1987-03-24 Neil Alexander G B O Catheter assembly
US4790814A (en) 1986-04-09 1988-12-13 Fischl Franz H Artificial fertilization catheter
US5083572A (en) 1987-02-04 1992-01-28 Pokorny Susan F Removal of secretions from the prepubertal vagina
US4863423A (en) * 1987-09-15 1989-09-05 H. G. Wallace Ltd. Catheter and cannula assembly
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Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU763964B2 (en) * 1999-09-24 2003-08-07 Cook Urological Inc. Embryo transfer catheter
WO2002003873A3 (fr) * 2000-07-10 2002-05-10 Us Health Sondes a radiofrequence pour traitement tissulaire et methodes d'utilisation
US6932814B2 (en) 2000-07-10 2005-08-23 The United States Of America As Represented By The Department Of Health And Human Services Radiofrequency probes for tissue treatment and methods of use
US7637904B2 (en) 2003-12-19 2009-12-29 Vance Products Incorporated Catheter with snap on feature
WO2010100373A1 (fr) * 2009-03-04 2010-09-10 Assistance Publique - Hopitaux De Paris Cathéter, notamment pour l'implantation d'embryons dans une cavité utérine d'un être humain ou animal, et instrument correspondant.
US9301780B2 (en) 2009-03-04 2016-04-05 Assistance Publique—Hopitaux de Paris Catheter, in particular for implanting an embryo in the uterine cavity of a human being or animal, and corresponding instrument
RU2444315C1 (ru) * 2010-09-03 2012-03-10 Михаил Григорьевич Шнейдерман Способ повышения возможности удачной имплантации эмбриона к эндометрию полости матки
EP4265206A1 (fr) * 2022-04-19 2023-10-25 Premium Fertility S.L Système de transfert d'embryons
WO2023203052A1 (fr) * 2022-04-19 2023-10-26 Premium Fertility S.L. Système de transfert d'embryons

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1049505A4 (fr) 2001-03-14
EP1049505A1 (fr) 2000-11-08
AU6254098A (en) 1999-08-09

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