Epicardial access system and methods

A needle for use with a guidewire for gaining epicardial access, the needle comprising:

• an elongate member which is comprised of a metal and defines a lumen and a side-port having a proximal edge, the side-port being in fluid communication with the lumen;
• an insulation covering an outside of the elongate member wherein a blunt tip of the needle is electrically exposed to define an electrode for delivering energy for puncturing tissue, the insulation including an insulation portion extending past the proximal edge of the side-port;
• and
• a guiding surface extending from a side wall of the elongate member opposite the side-port, the guiding surface configured to direct the guidewire from the lumen and out the side-port;
• wherein a distal end of the guiding surface is beveled so as to direct the guidewire in a distal direction upon exiting the side-port.