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Past, present, and future for surgical needles and needle holders
R F Edlich1, J G Thacker, W McGregor
1Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville.
American Journal of Surgery
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Surgical needle and holder technology has significantly advanced, improving wound repair. Innovations include new materials, needle designs, and atraumatic holders for better surgical outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Technology
- Biomaterials Science
- Wound Healing
Background:
- Surgical wound repair relies heavily on the performance of needles and needle holders.
- Technological stagnation in this field previously limited optimal surgical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and highlight significant advancements in surgical needle and needle holder technology over the past two decades.
- To underscore the impact of these innovations on surgical wound repair efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent technological developments in surgical instrumentation.
- Analysis of performance-enhancing features in needles and holders.
- Examination of material science and design innovations.
Main Results:
- Development of quantitative performance tests for needles and holders.
- Introduction of high nickel maraging stainless steels for enhanced durability.
- Advancements in needle design, including compound curves and laser-drilled swages.
- Optimization of needle-to-suture ratios to 1:1.
- Invention of the atraumatic needle holder.
Conclusions:
- Recent technological progress has substantially improved surgical needle and needle holder performance.
- These innovations contribute to enhanced surgical wound repair and patient outcomes.