Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for introducing spinal anesthesia directly into the subarachnoid space of a patient. One apparatus and method utilizes a small gauge spinal needle for penetrating the dura; the other utilizes a small gauge catheter with an internal stylet having a non-piercing pencil point to spread apart the filaments of the dura wall. An introducer having a rounded tip is also provided for guiding and supporting the spinal needle or catheter, as force is applied thereto, to cause the same to penetrate the dura.

Abstract: A plastic coupler for a catheter assembly including a distal member for attachment to a catheter tube and having a female luer lock connector for separable interconnection with a male connector of a proximal member having a self-sealing material disposed within a through passage for injection and a outer protective cap containing a sponge saturated with an antiseptic to bathe the self-sealing material and interconnection with an antiseptic, and a method for maintaining a coupler for a catheter assembly in aseptic condition.