Abstract: A trocar placement guide needle which reduces the need for trocar reinsertion attempts, by first ascertaining with the guide needle where a trocar should optimally be placed. In one embodiment, the guide needle is comprised of an elongate member including a proximal end and a sharp beveled distal tip for puncturing and cutting tissue, wherein the member includes an axial bore throughout the length of the member, a handle at the proximal end of the member, a means for indicating the depth to which the member has been inserted into the tissue, and a means for preventing unintended puncturing and cutting by the sharp beveled distal tip. Various embodiments are disclosed with different dimensions, means for precluding unintended puncturing or cutting, and depth indication means.