01-01
Standard access needle
Three-panel learning framework
What am I looking at?
Large-bore 18-gauge metal access needle with a broad hub and rigid shaft; configurations may include a removable obturator or stylet and an echogenic tip. The shaft is visibly larger than that of a 21-gauge micropuncture needle.
What does it do, and where will I see it?
Percutaneous entry into tissue or a vessel wall when direct placement of a 0.035- or 0.038-inch working guidewire is planned. Common contexts include arterial or venous access and selected drainage or large-catheter procedures when a micropuncture sequence is not needed.
What most clearly distinguishes it from similar devices?
Unlike a 21-gauge micropuncture needle, an 18-gauge access needle directly accepts a 0.035- or 0.038-inch working guidewire. This shortens the access sequence but creates a larger initial puncture.