Abstract: The present technology is directed to introducer needle assemblies comprising a tapered needle; as well as to kits comprising a tapered needle, a guidewire and a dilator and sheath; as well as to methods of introducing a dilator to the interior of a patient's body as part of an interventional procedure.

Abstract: The present technology is directed to introducer needle assemblies comprising a tapered needle; as well as to kits comprising a tapered needle, a guidewire and a dilator and sheath; as well as to methods of introducing a dilator to the interior of a patient's body as part of an interventional procedure.

Abstract: The present technology is directed to introducer needle assemblies comprising a tapered needle; as well as to kits comprising a tapered needle, a guidewire and a dilator and sheath; as well as to methods of introducing a dilator to the interior of a patient's body as part of an interventional procedure.

Abstract: The present technology is directed to introducer needle assemblies comprising a tapered needle; as well as to kits comprising a tapered needle, a guidewire and a dilator and sheath; as well as to methods of introducing a dilator to the interior of a patient's body as part of an interventional procedure.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a valve hub comprising a hemostasis valve enclosed within a housing, the housing having an upper portion and a lower portion and an access port aligned with the vertical axis of the hemostasis valve; wherein the lower portion of valve hub is engaged within a connector such as a luer fitting, such that the valve hub rotates freely about its vertical axis. The present invention is also directed to medical devices comprising such valves hubs and catheters, as well as methods for assembling such devices and performing medical procedures using such devices.