Exploration of new electroacupuncture needle material

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials science
• Medical device engineering
• Electrophysiology

Background:

• Electro acupuncture (EA) utilizes acupuncture needles as electrodes for low-frequency stimulation.
• Preventing needle corrosion is crucial for the safe operation of EA devices.
• Identifying biocompatible materials for standard EA needle production is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify a suitable biocompatible material for electro acupuncture needles.
• To assess the potential for producing a standardized EA needle.

Main Methods:

• Biocompatibility was evaluated using MTT and cytotoxicity assays.
• Corrosion resistance was assessed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) after electrical stimulation.
• Mechanical properties including straightness and tensile strength were tested.

Main Results:

• Phosphor bronze and Ni-coated SS304 exhibited cytotoxicity and corrosion, rendering them unsuitable.
• Ti-6Al-4V and SS316 demonstrated excellent biocompatibility with no signs of cytotoxicity or corrosion.
• SS316 presented a more cost-effective and conductive alternative to Ti-6Al-4V.
• SS316 met manufacturing standards for straightness and tensile strength.

Conclusions:

• Stainless steel 316 (SS316) is confirmed as a viable and safe material for electro acupuncture electrodes.
• Further research into the maximum stimulation capacity of SS316 in EA applications is recommended.