• Toshiyasu Suzuki, Akira Tanaka, Haruo Fukuyama, Junichi Nishiyama, Masahiro Kanazawa, Masatoshi Oda, and Miwa Takahashi.
• Department of Anesthesiology, Tokai University School of Medicine, Bohseidai, Isehara, Kanagawa 259-1193, Japan.
• Tokai J. Exp. Clin. Med. 2004 Dec 1; 29 (4): 175-81.

ObjectivesTo compare penetration forces of intravenous catheters based on two grinding methods used for the inner needle tip.MethodForty intravenous catheters were divided into two groups according to two inner needle grinding methods: Lancet and Backcut. To compare the characteristics of inner needles, 18 gauge Surflo outer catheters, were attached to all inner needles. We measured penetration forces by attaching a "Push-Pull-Gauge" to the chamber of intravenous catheters, then we penetrated intravenous catheters through a 0.04-mm thick polyethylene film. The penetration velocity was 3.3 mm/sec. we measured penetration forces at 30- and 45-degree penetration angles.ResultsThere was no significant difference in the penetration forces of inner needle and outer catheter between the two groups at the 45-degree penetration angle. Penetration forces of the inner needle and the outer catheter in the Backcut group was significantly lower than those of the Lancet group at the 30-degree penetration angle. The penetration force of the outer catheter was reduced from 0.3 N to 0.18 N, a 40 % reduction at 30-degree penetration angle. Computerized measurements of penetration holes indicate that the Y-shaped incision mark of the Backcut leaves larger incision hole than the actual puncture size. We hypothesize that the Y-shaped incision mark creates more efficient path for the outer catheter to advance. Therefore, lower penetration force was indicated compared to the other group.ConclusionBackcut shows less penetration force of inner needles of peripheral intravenous catheters than lancet.

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