Description

The Disposable Tuohy Epidural Needle is an essential tool in the administration of epidural anesthesia and analgesia, widely used in obstetric, surgical, and pain management settings. Its design features a curved Huber tip with a lateral opening, allowing for precise and controlled placement of epidural catheters. This unique configuration minimizes the risk of dural membrane puncture and reduces tissue trauma, enhancing patient safety and comfort.

Key Features

• Anti-Coring Design: The needle's blunt tip and lateral orifice are engineered to prevent tissue coring and catheter shearing, ensuring smooth insertion and reliable performance.
• Depth Awareness: Centimetric graduations or surface markings provide clear depth awareness, typically at 1-cm or 10-mm intervals, aiding in accurate placement.
• Visual Identification: A transparent or color-coded hub facilitates fluid reflux visualization and easy gauge identification. The hub may also include removable or fixed wings for enhanced grip and control during insertion.

Construction and Materials

• High-Quality Materials: Constructed from high tensile strength 304 stainless steel, the needle is robust and reliable. The hub, made from polypropylene or plastic, is color-coded by gauge for easy identification.
• Latex-Free: The needle is free from latex, BPA, DEHP, PVC, and animal products, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Sizes and Variants

Available in gauges typically ranging from 16G to 19G, with lengths commonly between 80 mm to 153 mm. Standard adult sizes are around 8–9 cm, with extra-long versions available for specific patient needs.

Design and Safety

• Bevel Orientation: A lug or indicator on the hub shows bevel orientation, while the smooth, beveled heel reduces the risk of catheter cutting.
• Sterility: Each needle is sterile, single-use, and pyrogen-free, adhering to stringent medical safety standards.

Professional Use

Intended for use by trained medical professionals, the needle should be disposed of according to medical waste regulations. Proper storage in a cool, dry, and dust-free environment is recommended, and use should be avoided if packaging is compromised.

Manufacturing Excellence

Manufactured with precision techniques such as grinding, swaging, bending, laser marking, electropolishing, and ultrasonic cleaning. Quality control is maintained with advanced measuring instruments, and the product meets ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 13485 standards.

Historical Insight

The Tuohy needle, originally invented by Ralph L. Huber in 1940 and popularized by Edward Boyce Tuohy in 1945, continues to be a cornerstone in epidural procedures, reflecting decades of trusted medical innovation.