The History, Innovation, and Standards of Intravenous Access Ports and Devices

Abstract

Medical and mechanical devices that include needles, syringes, connectors, and intravenous (IV) access ports are the fundamental components used in IV therapy for patients undergoing diagnosis, treatment of disease, or injury while in a healthcare facility. The products used for IV therapy are estimated to cost $14 billion in 2022 and $27 billion by 2032 globally on an annual basis. The increase in cost is due to the rise in anesthesia delivery for surgery and IV therapy treatment of chronic diseases. Due to their importance in healthcare delivery, an overview of the historical basis of these essential medical and mechanical devices is a prerequisite for understanding the purpose of their initial use. Their expanded use has driven advances in medical device construction, taking user and research-based feedback into account for improvement. An example provided is when a metal cage, known as a Lüer-lock, was attached to the slip tip of a syringe to prevent a detachable needle from popping off when a drug is forcefully injected. National and international standard-developing organizations, including the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), have published design standards, including the ISO 80369 series of international standards, making products used for IV therapy safer and more efficient for manufacturers, healthcare facilities, clinicians, and patients. Innovation in products used for IV therapy is essential to ensure that healthcare services advance the quality and safety of patient care.