B. Braun Introcan IV Catheter | 18G x 1 3/4" Winged High-Volume Venous Access Device

The B. Braun Introcan utilizes proprietary Double Flashback technology to provide separate, immediate visual confirmation of both needle entry and successful catheter placement within the vessel. Upon initial venipuncture, a primary flashback appears in the needle chamber to confirm the tip has entered the lumen, followed by a secondary flashback between the catheter and the needle to signal successful cannula advancement. This dual-indicator system is critical for technical specialists performing rapid vascular access, as it minimizes the risk of through-and-through punctures. By ensuring the catheter is correctly positioned before the needle is withdrawn, the device significantly increases first-stick success rates in high-pressure clinical environments. This level of visual precision is a benchmark for advanced peripheral venous access in both human and veterinary medicine.

This IV catheter incorporates a fully automatic passive safety shield that permanently encases the needle tip upon withdrawal without requiring any secondary activation steps from the operator. Unlike active safety systems that rely on a manual button or slide, this passive mechanism cannot be bypassed, ensuring 100% compliance with sharps-safety mandates and OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens standards. The safety clip deploys instantly as the needle is retracted from the catheter hub, effectively eliminating the risk of accidental needle-stick injuries (NSIs) during disposal. This "no-step" protection design is proven to be significantly more effective than active systems at reducing exposure to bloodborne pathogens in high-stress surgical suites. Standardizing on passive safety technology protects institutional staff while streamlining the hazardous waste disposal process.

The 18G Introcan is manufactured from medical-grade polyurethane (PUR), a high-performance thermoplastic that remains rigid for easy insertion but softens significantly at body temperature. Once indwelling, the cannula becomes flexible and conforms to the vascular anatomy, which drastically reduces mechanical phlebitis and vessel wall irritation. This material advantage, combined with a thin-wall design, allows for a high flow rate of approximately 100 mL/min, which is ideal for rapid fluid administration. Polyurethane also offers superior kink-resistance compared to traditional FEP materials, ensuring consistent delivery of intravenous fluids even in active patients. These technical specifications directly contribute to longer viable dwell-times and a more comfortable experience for the patient.

This 18-gauge green Introcan catheter is pressure-rated for contrast media applications up to 300 psi when used with automated power injectors. This high-pressure tolerance makes it an exceptionally versatile tool, suitable for both standard infusion therapy and specialized radiological procedures in the ICU or ER. The robust polyurethane construction prevents catheter rupture or deformation under the significant hydraulic forces required for modern diagnostic imaging protocols. Technical specialists can rely on this standardized hardware for diverse clinical needs, from routine maintenance fluids to high-velocity CT scan injections. Having a 300 psi rating on a standard peripheral catheter simplifies inventory requirements and ensures the device can handle the mechanical stresses of automated delivery.

Standardizing on B. Braun Introcan passive safety catheters provides a superior TCO by reducing the incidence of needle-stick injuries and the associated high costs of post-exposure prophylaxis and liability. While the initial unit cost may be higher than non-safety alternatives, the superior dwell-time of the polyurethane cannula results in fewer restarts and reduced consumable waste. Facilities experience lower labor costs as technical specialists spend less time managing catheter failures and mechanical phlebitis complications. The reduction in "nuisance" dislodgements due to the stable winged hub design further improves the overall return on investment. Over a fiscal cycle, the increased reliability and enhanced professional safety lead to measurable savings in both clinical time and administrative overhead.