Introduction
One small device that is significant in saving lives in all hospitals or clinics is the IV cannula. An IV cannula can deliver fluids, medications, and emergency transfusions to a patient. It is one of those medical devices that seems simple but is extremely important in day-to-day care. To the healthcare professionals and to the procurement teams, choosing the right cannula matters. The quality products of reputed IV cannula manufacturers and IV cannula exporters are also safe, comfortable, and painless for patients of any age. This article is designed to help healthcare professionals gain for better understanding of IV cannulas, their applications, advantages, what they are, how they work, and why they are essential in medical practice.
What Is an IV Cannula?
An IV cannula is a small, flexible tube inserted into a vein with the help of a needle. Once the catheter is inside the vein, the needle is removed, leaving the tube in place. This tube allows medicines, fluids, or blood products to reach the bloodstream directly. An IV cannula helps doctors give treatment without repeatedly pricking the patient with a needle. It is widely used in emergency rooms, hospitals, surgical wards, and even in home care when IV therapy is required.
Types of IV Cannula
There are different types of IV cannula that fulfil different types of medical needs. Here are the common ones used in healthcare:
IV Cannula With Wing With Port
This is one of the most preferred types.
The wings help secure the cannula in place.
The injection port allows medicines to be given without removing or disconnecting the IV line.
It is convenient, time-saving, and reduces discomfort for the patient.
IV Cannula With Wings (Without Port)
This version also comes with wings for stability, but does not include an injection port. It is used when only fluid therapy is needed without additional drug injections.
IV Cannula Without Wings (Pen Type)
A simpler design that is often used for short-term IV access. It is compact and easy to use.
Safety IV Cannula
The Safety IV Cannula is designed to optimise patient care and the safety of healthcare workers during intravenous procedures. It has an easy-to-use, self-activating safety mechanism that captures the needle in a safe chamber after venipuncture, thus reducing the risks of needlestick injuries to a minimum.
Sizes of IV Cannula
Available sizes of IV cannula are related to size, commonly described by the gauge (G) system. This is the diameter of a cannula for IV, with lower gauge numbers meaning larger diameters. Choosing the right size is also one of the most important requirements that would guarantee proper treatment and patient comfort.
14G (Orange) – Used in trauma cases or when fluids need to be given very quickly.
16G (Grey) – Useful for surgery or rapid infusions.
18G (Green) – A common size for blood transfusions and general adult IV therapy.
20G (Pink) – The most widely used cannula for adults; comfortable and versatile.
22G (Blue) – Ideal for children, elderly patients, or those with narrow veins.
24G–26G (Yellow/Purple) – Used for newborns, infants, or patients needing delicate insertion.
Choosing the right size helps in managing flow rate and reduces discomfort.
Conclusion
The IV cannula may look like a simple device, but it is truly a lifeline in modern healthcare. It helps deliver essential treatments quickly and safely, making patient care smoother and more effective. Choosing the right type, especially the IV cannula with a wing with port, improves comfort, reduces complications, and supports efficient workflow for medical staff. As one of India’s leading IV Cannula manufacturers and exporters, GST Corporation delivers high-quality, medically tested, and globally trusted solutions for healthcare professionals.
