A Quadruple-Lumen Intravenous Infusion Catheter

Abstract

A 5 French gauge, 30 cm usable length, radio-opaque, colour-coded quadruple-lumen catheter has been designed for simultaneous multiple central drug infusion and central venous pressure measurement. Concentrated drug infusions can be administered without interruption for pressure measurements. It eliminates the risk of inadvertent bolus administration of concentrated drug solutions during flushing of lines or administration of “push-doses” of other injections into the same infusion line. The problems of chemical incompatibilities and drug interactions are reduced. The system may help reduce complications in patients requiring complex intravenous therapy and pressure measurement.