Abstract: A guidewire comprising a magnetic element that would help to avoid accidental release of the guidewire. The magnetic element is located at a proximal one-fourth segment of the guidewire. The guidewire could be used in a variety of contexts, such as central venous catheterization, endovascular radiology procedures, or cardiac catheterization. Also disclosed are vascular instruments comprising a magnetic element or magnetically responsive element. Examples of such vascular instruments include finder needles, dilation cannulas, and various types of catheters. The vascular instrument could be used in combination with a magnetic guidewire to help to avoid accidental release of the guidewire.

Abstract: A vascular access needle for guidewire insertion. The needle comprises a barrel defined by a cylindrical wall. The barrel is hollow, defining a channel that extends along a central longitudinal axis of the needle. There is a bevel at the distal end with a lancet tip. The channel of the needle is configured so that it takes an oblique path at the distal end of the channel. As such, a guidewire inserted through the needle would exit the needle at an oblique angle. This configuration allows for improved vascular cannulation, especially in situations where the blood vessel is difficult to access.