Breakage and deformation characteristics of hypodermic devices under static and dynamic loading

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Materials Science
• Food Safety

Background:

• Hypodermic needles are essential tools in animal husbandry and veterinary medicine.
• Needle breakage can lead to complications and economic losses in livestock.
• Understanding needle strength is crucial for preventing retained foreign objects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the mechanical strength and failure points of hypodermic needles.
• To identify factors contributing to needle breakage during animal injections.
• To reduce the risk of broken needles remaining in animal tissues.

Main Methods:

• Porcine cadaver skin was used to test stainless steel needles of various gauges and lengths.
• Needle-hub assemblies with aluminum and plastic hubs were subjected to mechanical stress tests.
• A simulated animal motion device assessed breakage during movement, focusing on hub integrity.

Main Results:

• Needles were generally resilient, but breakage occurred when bent needles were straightened and reloaded.
• Needle gauge and length significantly influenced strength; shorter needles (1.0-in) were stronger than longer ones (1.5-in).
• Plastic hubs showed a 40% increase in failure rates compared to aluminum hubs under simulated animal movement.

Conclusions:

• Needle selection (gauge, length) and hub material are critical for preventing breakage.
• Findings are vital for Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) in meat processing.
• Optimizing needle choice can enhance animal welfare and food safety.