An infusion catheter system comprises a surgical needle (30) and an infusion catheter (40). The infusion catheter has an internal bore and the needle has a protrusion (36) extending from its proximal end (34). The protrusion is adapted to mate with the internal bore of the infusion catheter. Through this innovative connection method, the needle can take the same diameter as the catheter. Therefore the puncture marks caused in the patient will have a smaller diameter than with conventional "introducer needles", reducing pain, leakage and the chances of infection. Furthermore, the catheter may be introduced subcutaneously, further reducing the risk of infection by eliminating the risk of skin bacteria being drawn into the wound cavity.
