Patent ID: 7682337
Filing Date: 2010-03-23
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for gaining percutaneous access to a body lumen, comprising: a needle, said needle having a distal tip suitable for initial percutaneous puncture into said body lumen, said needle defining an outer surface having a first outer diameter along a distal first length, a second outer diameter along a proximal second length, and a first taper contiguous with said first outer diameter and said second outer diameter intermediate said first length and said second length, said second outer diameter being greater than said first outer diameter; and an outer sleeve terminating at a distal end having a third outer diameter and comprising an outer sleeve lumen extending longitudinally therethrough, a second taper from said third outer diameter at said distal end to a fourth outer diameter greater than said third outer diameter and proximal thereto, and a shaft portion having said fourth outer diameter along a shaft length contiguous with said second taper, said needle being receivable within said outer sleeve lumen with said second taper disposed proximal of said first taper.