A needle injection catheter comprises a catheter body having an axially disposed needle near its distal end. The needle passes through a deflection path formed in a distal nose of the catheter. A deflection path typically comprises a 90.degree. turn so that the axially disposed needle can be deflected laterally for advancement into surrounding tissue. Usually, a hydraulic or other driver will be provided in the distal end of the catheter in order to advance the needle and cause deflection.