Flexible Intraosseous Obturator

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for a flexible obturator for use with an access assembly of an intraosseous device are disclosed. The flexible obturator can include elastic properties and relatively low columnar strength, relatively low shear strength, and/or relatively high compressive strength. When the obturator is supported in the needle, the obturator can prevent bone fragments and tissue from blocking the needle lumen. When removed from the needle, the obturator can deform under a force to prevent accidental needle stick injuries. The flexible obturator can define a radially symmetrical profile and can conform to the inner profile of the needle lumen. The flexible obturator can extend beyond a distal tip of the needle and be trimmed flush to a beveled surface of the needle. This simplifies the manufacturing process, allowing a single size obturator to be fitted to multiple sizes of needle.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.