Abstract: A needle assembly includes a needle component (10) and a blunting component (26), the needle component (10) containing a needle cannula (12) mounted in a housing (16) which defines a fluid chamber such as a fluid chamber (20). The blunting component (26) contains a non-perforated, open-ended blunting probe (28) mounted in a shuttle (30). The needle cannula (12) and the blunting probe (28) are disposed telescopically one within the other without obstructing flow through the needle passageway, and are movable between a sharpened configuration and a blunted configuration. The blunting member (26) is configured to permit the open end of the blunting probe (28) to provide flow access to the fluid chamber (20) in the housing (16).

Abstract: Methods for filling and sealing containers having one or more flexible sides. Non-standard containers for holding fluid are releasably supported during the filling and sealing process. Both the interior and exterior of the filled container are subjected to an environment of reduced pressure to minimize the headspace and sealed.