Abstract: The present invention relates to medical needles used in connection with guide wires. A needle of the present invention includes a substantially cylindrical tube formed along a central longitudinal axis. A tapered tube is connected to one end of the tube and has a sharpened end. A channel extends through the cylindrical tube and the tapered tube, and is aligned with the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the tapered portion is radially expandable. For instance, radial expansion may result when a guide wire is selectively inserted through the channel. The radial expansion may be facilitated by a relief on the tapered tube portion. Optionally, the relief includes a plurality of slots which expand as a guide wire is inserted through the channel and tapered portion, thereby also causing the internal and outer diameters of the tapered portion to expand.

Abstract: The present invention relates to sealing an access site within a subcutaneous tissue structure with an occlusion device comprising submucosal tissue. The occlusion device a stem and a flexible head, where the head is a concave dome, and has one or more ribs which strengthen the head and reduce flexure that would invert the dome. The stem comprises a loop configured to receive a suture which may be stitched to the patient and whereby the occlusion device is secured. The occlusion device comprises a transition section which is tapered and which connects the head to the stem. The tapered section is configured to strengthen the occlusion device and to facilitate positioning of the device within the subcutaneous tissue structure. A delivery device is configured to releasably secure stem the occlusion device and facilitate delivery of the occlusion device to a vascular access site, and to facilitate bending of the head.