Abstract: The invention provides an intravascular placement apparatus adapted for operative association with an introducer needle. The apparatus provides a cannula having a connector hub at its remote end, a self-sealing septum disposed across the internal lumen of the cannula whereby the cannula can be positioned by co-operation with the introducer needle, and a blunt hollow adaptor adapted to penetrate a channel in the septum. According to the invention, the self-sealing septum is formed from a resilient material which ages rapidly after forming to a point where its resilience is not significantly further affected by time. Preferably the channel is formed in situ in the septum when the septum has aged for a predetermined period.

Abstract: The invention provides an assembly of a protective shield for a needle channel and a self-sealing diaphragm, wherein the protective shield is generally cup-shaped and is provided with an aperture, said self-sealing diaphragm being retained in the aperture, the arrangement being such as to protect the fingers of the operative from needle-stick by the miss-direction of a hypodermic needle. The diameter of the aperture may approximate to, or be smaller than, the internal diameter of the inlet of the needle channel so that only is needle-stick obviated, but also the tendency of the needle point to tear the seal-sealing diaphragm is significantly reduced.

Abstract: The invention provides an assembly of a catheter and a cannula for cooperation therewith, wherein the catheter is provided with visible gradations disposed on the surface of the catheter adjacent its hub. The catheter cooperates with the cannula which is provided with gradations adjacent its distal tip. The arrangement in accordance with this invention allows for the accurate placement of small biological particles such as human embryos to appropriate body cavities.