A Paracentesis Catheter Retention Accessory

Application

A device for maintaining the stability and securement of a catheter during a paracentesis procedure.

Key Benefits

• Stabilizes and secures the paracentesis catheter to the patient’s abdomen.
• Provides the clinician with a hands-free approach after placement, offering greater flexibility during the procedure.
• Coil design is adjustable to the depth of insertion of the catheter, allowing for catheter readjustment.
• Potential for use in other centesis procedures, such as thoracentesis.

Market Summary

There are close to 150,000 paracentesis procedures performed per year in the United States. This procedure is commonly used for diagnostic purposes and to treat ascites, which is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. By draining the fluid with a catheter, paracentesis can provide relief for patients experiencing discomfort or respiratory difficulties due to ascites. This procedure often requires the clinician to stabilize the catheter throughout the procedure, taking time and attention away from other matters during the drainage.

Technical Summary

Researchers at Emory partnered with Georgia Tech to develop Cathet-HugHER, an accessory that can stabilize and affix the catheter to the patient during a paracentesis procedure. The device consists of a clamp that attaches to the catheter, a coil that is adjustable to allow for vertical movement, and an adhesive base that secures the device to the patient’s abdomen. This device is designed to provide clinicians with flexibility by enabling a hands-off approach to the procedure after placement of the catheter.

Development Stage

Prototype built.