Butterfly IV Catheters Explained: Gentle, Precise, and Patient-Friendly

Lars Medicare
May 3
4 min read

Introduction

Ever heard of a butterfly needle? Sounds delicate, right? That’s because it is, butterfly IV catheters are designed for precision and comfort, especially when working with small or fragile veins. Whether you’re a healthcare professional or just someone curious about how IV access works, this article will break down everything you need to know about these winged wonders.

What is a Butterfly IV Catheter?

A butterfly IV catheter, also called a winged infusion set, is a small device used to access veins for blood draws or short-term infusions. The name comes from the two “wings” on either side of the needle, which make insertion more stable and less intimidating.

How Does It Differ From a Regular IV Catheter?

While a standard IV catheter involves a flexible plastic cannula that stays in the vein, a butterfly catheter keeps the needle in place during the entire procedure.

Key differences:

Feature	Standard IV Catheter	Butterfly IV Catheter
Needle Removal	Removed after insertion	Remains in vein
Use Case	Long-term IV therapy	Short procedures, blood draws
Flexibility	Yes (cannula stays)	No (needle stays)
Vein Access	Larger veins	Small, fragile veins

When to Use a Butterfly Catheter

So, when is a butterfly catheter the better choice?

✅ Pediatric or neonatal patients ✅ Elderly patients with thin veins ✅ Quick blood draws or medication administration ✅ Diagnostic testing ✅ Cancer patients receiving short infusions

They’re all about precision and comfort—think of them as the “gentle touch” of IV therapy.

Parts of a Butterfly IV Catheter

Let’s break it down, part by part:

1. Needle

A thin, hollow stainless steel needle that remains in place during use.
Extremely sharp for painless vein entry.

2. Wings

Flexible plastic flaps on either side of the needle.
Used for grip, control, and taping the catheter in place.

3. Tubing

Short, flexible tubing connects the needle to the IV line or syringe.
Prevents pulling and kinking during movement.

4. Luer Lock or Adapter

Allows for secure connection to other IV equipment.

Each part contributes to smooth, safe access, especially in hard-to-stick patients.

Sizes and Color Codes

Just like regular iv catheter sizes, butterfly catheters are color-coded by gauge.

Gauge (G)	Color	Use Case
19G	Cream	Plasma donation
21G	Green	General use
23G	Light Blue	Small veins
25G	Orange	Pediatrics, infants

The higher the gauge, the smaller the needle.

Advantages of Butterfly IV Catheters

Let’s talk perks—because butterfly catheters aren’t just cute, they’re smart.

🟢 Precise insertion: Thanks to the wings, you get greater control. 🟢 Less painful: Especially for patients with tough veins. 🟢 Lower risk of rolling veins: Great for veins that move easily. 🟢 Visible blood flashback: Makes it easy to confirm vein access. 🟢 Patient comfort: Less movement means less irritation.

Disadvantages (and When to Avoid)

Of course, no device is perfect.

🔴 Not suitable for long-term use: Needles shouldn’t stay in for hours. 🔴 Can cause vein damage if misused. 🔴 Limited flow rates: Not ideal for large volume infusions. 🔴 Higher risk of needle stick injury if safety mechanisms aren’t used.

Use them strategically—they’re amazing for short tasks but not for overnight drips.

Safety Features in Modern Butterfly Catheters

Just like larger iv catheter parts, butterfly sets now include safety features to protect healthcare workers.

Slide-back needle covers
Push-button retractors
Blunt-tipped options
Built-in sharps safety guards

Brands like Lars Medicare Private Limited are ahead of the game, offering advanced safety-engineered iv cannula and catheter systems.

How to Insert a Butterfly IV Catheter (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a simple walkthrough for proper technique:

Wash hands and wear gloves
Prepare your supplies
Select an appropriate vein
Clean insertion site
Hold wings between thumb and index finger
Insert the needle bevel-up at a shallow angle (10–15°)
Look for flashback
Stabilize and secure with tape
Connect to tubing or draw blood
Dispose properly after use

Always follow your facility’s protocol and infection control guidelines.

Who Manufactures Quality Butterfly Catheters?

If you're sourcing devices, it’s smart to stick with top-tier iv cannula manufacturers.

Lars Medicare Private Limited is a well-known player in the global market. They’re known for:

Premium-grade butterfly IV catheters
Color-coded accuracy
Latex-free, sterile packaging
CE and ISO certifications
Competitive prices with bulk availability

That’s why Lars ranks high among IV cannula brands—they’re reliable, affordable, and focused on innovation.

Best Practices for Storage and Handling

To keep your devices safe and functional:

✅ Store in a dry, cool area ✅ Check expiration before use ✅ Never reuse (they’re single-use!) ✅ Keep packaging intact until needed ✅ Train all staff in safe usage

Proper handling keeps both patients and providers protected.

Comparing Butterfly to Other IV Catheter Types

Let’s line it up:

Feature	Butterfly IV Catheter	Standard IV Cannula
Comfort	High	Medium
Duration	Short-term	Long-term
Insertion Control	High	Moderate
Flow Rate	Low	High
Common Use	Blood draws, pediatrics	Medications, fluids

Each has a place—but butterflies are clearly the MVP for quick, comfortable venous access.

Conclusion

The butterfly IV catheter may look small, but it packs a punch when it comes to delivering comfort, control, and precision. Whether you're drawing blood, starting an infusion, or working with sensitive patients, it’s the go-to tool for short-term access.

And with top-quality manufacturers like Lars Medicare Private Limited, you know you’re getting the best in safety and reliability. So next time you see those tiny wings—know there’s a lot of smart design behind that gentle poke.

FAQs

1. Can you use a butterfly catheter for IV therapy? Yes, but only for short-term therapy. For longer infusions, standard IV catheters are recommended.

2. Are butterfly IV catheters safe for children? Absolutely! In fact, they’re the preferred choice for pediatric and neonatal patients due to their precision and comfort.

3. What gauge is best for butterfly needles? 23G or 25G is typically used for small or fragile veins, especially in children.

4. How long can a butterfly catheter stay in? It’s meant for short-term use—generally under 1 hour. Always follow your facility’s guidelines.

5. Is Lars Medicare a good brand for butterfly IV catheters? Yes, Lars Medicare offers high-quality, certified butterfly catheters used globally in hospitals and clinics.