Patent ID: 6921396

Claim:
A method of inserting a multi-lumen catheter in a patient, wherein the multi-lumen catheter includes a multi-lumen catheter tube having a proximal end with proximal tips and a distal end, a single-lumen flush tube portion having a proximal end connected to the distal end of the catheter tube and a distal end, and an integrated connector including a coupling portion on a distal end of the connector and having a proximal end connected to the distal end of the flush tube portion, the method comprising: (a) inserting the proximal end of the multi-lumen catheter tube through an incision in the patient's skin and placing the proximal tips of the catheter in the patient, such that distal portions of the multi-lumen catheter tube, the flush tube portion, and the connector extend outwardly from the patient through the incision; (b) forming a subcutaneous tunnel having a first end proximate to the incision, and an opposed second end which is remote from the first end; (c) inserting a trocar through the tunnel from the second end to the first end of the tunnel such that a protruding tip of the trocar protrudes from the patient through the first end of the tunnel, the trocar including a coupling portion adjacent said protruding tip of the trocar; (d) engaging the coupling portion of the trocar in the coupling portion of the connector; (e) guiding the connector, the flush tube portion, and at least a portion of the distal end of the catheter tube through the tunnel and out through the second end of the tunnel with the trocar until the catheter tube is finally positioned in the tunnel; and (f) severing the connector and engaged trocar, the flush tube portion, and a portion of the multi-lumen catheter tube near its distal end from a remaining portion of the multi-lumen catheter tube.