Needle-Free Jet Injectors and Their Potential Applications in Plastic Surgery: A Review

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Plastic Surgery Innovations

Background:

• Needle-free jet injectors (NFJI) are an established alternative for medication and vaccine delivery.
• Despite proven benefits like faster absorption and efficacy, NFJI adoption in plastic surgery is limited.
• Previous applications include botulinum toxin, steroids for scars, and local anesthesia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical applications and efficacy of NFJI in plastic and dermatologic fields.
• To assess the safety, mechanics, and patient preferences associated with NFJI technology.
• To identify recent advancements and potential of NFJI in medical aesthetics.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies published in the last 10 years, indexed on PubMed.
• Inclusion of original articles on ex vivo, animal, and human trials of NFJI devices.
• Exclusion of review articles, theoretical modeling, and non-medical applications.

Main Results:

• 115 articles met inclusion criteria from an initial 767 screened.
• Majority of studies (53.9%) involved human patients, followed by animal and ex vivo models.
• Investigations covered device efficacy, mechanics, safety, and patient acceptance, with improved outcomes.

Conclusions:

• NFJI devices represent a viable, safe, and potentially more effective delivery method than traditional needles.
• NFJI technology demonstrates improved patient preference and reduced pain.
• Significant potential exists for NFJI in plastic and dermatologic surgery applications.