Abstract: A vascular access device is disclosed including a catheter, a catheter adapter having a distal end and a proximal end, an overall length extending from the distal end to the proximal end, an internal cavity, an upper portion, a lower portion and a tip having a distal opening having a circumference through which the catheter extends, an introducer needle extending through the catheter; and a needle hub connected to the proximal end of the introducer needle. The catheter adapter being connected to the proximal end of the catheter and at least a majority of the catheter adapter is made from a first material and at least a portion of the tip is made from a second material that is more flexible than the first material.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for generating thermal energy from a pulsed DC electric power source utilizing pairs of electrodes disposed in a water medium. Electric pulses are provided at a frequency up to 20 MHz. Efficiencies are obtained when multiple pairs of electrodes are powered by the pulsed DC electric power source. The electrodes may be rods, plates, cylinders, or other useful shapes. The electrodes exposed to water may be a metal or alloy of nickel, platinum, palladium, or tungsten. The DC pulse generator is electrically connected to the electrodes to provide a source of pulsed direct current electric power. The input polarity to the electrodes may be periodically reversed or alternated between the anode and cathode polarity to limit erosion/electroplating of electrode material.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for generating thermal energy from a pulsed DC electric power source utilizing pairs of electrodes disposed in a water medium. Electric pulses are provided at a frequency up to 20 MHz. Efficiencies are obtained when multiple pairs of electrodes are powered by the pulsed DC electric power source. The electrodes may be rods, plates, cylinders, or other useful shapes. The electrodes exposed to water may be a metal or alloy of nickel, platinum, palladium, or tungsten. The DC pulse generator is electrically connected to the electrodes to provide a source of pulsed direct current electric power. The input polarity to the electrodes may be periodically reversed or alternated between the anode and cathode polarity to limit erosion/electroplating of electrode material.

Abstract: A vascular access device is disclosed including a catheter, a catheter adapter having a distal end and a proximal end, an overall length extending from the distal end to the proximal end, an internal cavity, an upper portion, a lower portion and a tip having a distal opening having a circumference through which the catheter extends, an introducer needle extending through the catheter; and a needle hub connected to the proximal end of the introducer needle. The catheter adapter being connected to the proximal end of the catheter and at least a majority of the catheter adapter is made from a first material and at least a portion of the tip is made from a second material that is more flexible than the first material.