APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ACHIEVING MICROPUNCTURE

摘要

A method comprises the steps of inserting a microneedle or micropuncture device into a body cavity to achieve a micropuncture into the cavity while reducing tissue trauma at a puncture site. A stepped or tapered guidewire having a reduced diameter distal portion is telescopically disposed through the inner diameter of the microneedle or Micropuncture device. A proximal portion of the guidewire has a diameter larger than the inner diameter of the microneedle or Micropuncture device and extends to a proximal end of the guidewire. The proximal portion is adapted for guiding a larger diameter instrument into and through the vascular system. The microneedle or micropuncture device is withdrawn from the micropuncture while leaving the distal portion of the guidewire extending through the micropuncture. The microneedle or micropuncture device is removed from the guidewire without removing the microneedle or Micropuncture device over the proximal end of the guidewire. As a result, tissue trauma at the puncture site is substantially reduced.