New device simplifies catheter insertion

Researchers have developed a new semi-automatic handheld device for the rapid and safe intravenous (IV) insertion of catheters.
The new prototype device for rapid and safe IV insertion reduces pain in hospitalised patients, researchers said.
The semi-automatic handheld device, called SAGIV, identifies veins, inserts a needle and withdraws it in a single movement.
Administering fluids to patients is carried out through intravenous (IV) catheters, inserting a needle in a vein in a common medical procedure, researchers said.
However, the motor coordination required to insert an IV catheter is very demanding, particularly in children and infants. This often causes pain, distress and frustration.

To address this need, Hebrew University of Jerusalem students and Hadassah Medical Center clinicians, attending the joint Biodesign programme, created a semi-automatic handheld device for rapid and safe IV insertion.

SAGIV uses infrared sights and electrical sensing to identify veins, insert the needle into the correct location, and withdraw it in a single, rapid robotic movement.
"Some caregivers simply don't have the dexterity to insert IV catheters successfully," said Dr Yotam Almagor, the group's clinical expert.
"This leads to a lot of pain and frustration," said Almagor.
The group's prototype, developed by engineering graduate student Lev Lavy, has already been tested successfully on children at the pediatric ward of Hadassah Medical Center.

"We had a lot of excited parents asking that we use the device. Children that used to be pricked numerous times in every visit can now be connected in a single attempt," said Almagor.
Biodesign is a multi-disciplinary, team-based approach to medical innovation, created by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Hadassah Medical Center in partnership with Stanford University.