Effectiveness Of Ultrathin 40-Gauge Needles for Intravitreal Injections

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Diseases
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Intravitreal injections (IVIs) are crucial for treating various retinal conditions.
• Conventional 30-gauge needles are commonly used, but can cause discomfort and complications.
• Minimizing pain and complications can improve patient adherence and treatment efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare pain perception and immediate post-procedural complications of IVIs performed with 30-gauge needles versus ultrathin 40-gauge needles.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective crossover study of patients undergoing serial IVIs for retinal diseases.
• Each patient received one injection with a 30-gauge and one with a 40-gauge needle.
• Pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS); subconjunctival hemorrhage (SCH) and vitreous reflux (VR) were graded.

Main Results:

• VAS pain scores were significantly lower with 40-gauge needles (2.33) compared to 30-gauge needles (4.02).
• Median VR grade decreased from 2 to 0 with 40-gauge needles.
• No significant difference in SCH grade was observed between the two needle gauges.

Conclusions:

• Ultrathin 40-gauge needles significantly reduce patient-reported pain and vitreous reflux during IVIs.
• There was no increase in subconjunctival hemorrhage with 40-gauge needles.
• Integration of 40-gauge needles into routine practice may enhance patient adherence and treatment efficacy.