Description

The Tuohy epidural needle is an essential tool in the administration of epidural anesthesia, renowned for its unique design that enhances both safety and precision. Its primary function is to facilitate the accurate placement of epidural catheters, making it indispensable in medical settings such as labor, surgery, and chronic pain management.

Key Features

• Curved, Blunt Tip: The needle's curved, non-coring tip with a lateral opening is ingeniously designed to minimize the risk of dural puncture. This feature allows for the directional placement of the catheter, reducing tissue trauma and enhancing patient safety.

• Graduated Markings: Equipped with centimetric or interval graduations, the needle provides clear depth awareness, aiding healthcare professionals in precise placement.

• Transparent or Color-Coded Hub: The hub's design, often transparent or color-coded, allows for easy visualization of fluid reflux and orientation, further supporting accurate catheter placement.

Construction and Materials

Crafted from medical-grade stainless steel, the Tuohy needle ensures durability and reliability. The hub and stylet, typically made from polypropylene or plastic, complement the needle's functionality by preventing tissue coring and maintaining sterility.

Handling and Use

The needle may include features such as wings or grip enhancements, offering easier handling for trained medical personnel. Its design is tailored for professional use, emphasizing the importance of proper training in its application.

Sterility and Disposal

As a single-use, sterile device, the Tuohy needle is latex-free and pyrogen-free, aligning with stringent medical safety standards. It must be disposed of following medical waste regulations, ensuring compliance with healthcare protocols.

Versatility

Available in various standard sizes, the needle accommodates different patient needs and may come with diverse hub designs or without wings, depending on the specific medical procedure. Its versatility extends to specialized variants for procedures like combined spinal-epidural applications.

The Tuohy epidural needle stands as a trusted component in medical practice, offering healthcare professionals the precision and safety required for effective epidural catheter placement. Its thoughtful design and construction underscore its role as a vital instrument in achieving successful patient outcomes.