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The invention of hypodermic needles is a remarkable milestone in human history. These needles have revolutionized drug delivery, allowing medications to be administered directly into the skin, muscles, and blood vessels. This method bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, preventing the unpredictable absorption or degradation of drugs by the digestive system, a significant advancement in medical technology.
While syringes have a history dating back to ancient times, it was in 1844 that the first hypodermic needle was believed to be created. This was the work of Francis Rynd of Dublin, who skillfully shaped steel into a narrow tube with a beveled tip and added the necessary fittings and locks. By 1853, Alexander Wood of Edinburg made a significant breakthrough by successfully injecting humans with morphine using a functional syringe and hypodermic needle.
The advent of plastic in the 1950s marked a turning point in the needle production process, ushering in the era of disposable syringes and needles. This innovation has been followed by a series of updates in needle design, including the development of minimally invasive microneedles and pen needles. The evolution of hypodermic needles is a testament to the constant progress and innovation in medical devices and technology.
Modern hypodermic needle manufacturing has reached unparalleled levels of technological sophistication. The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) leaves no room for compromise, outlining the requirements for each stage of the manufacturing process, from production to packaging to sterilization. This stringent adherence to standards ensures that the highest quality and safety standards are consistently met, instilling confidence and trust in hypodermic needles.
Here’s how hypodermic needles are made.
Materials used to make hypodermic needles must meet the chemical composition standards described in ISO 15510.
Hypodermic needles are manufactured using the following materials:
The cannula is the major component of hypodermic needles. By “pulling” larger-diameter tubing, thinner diameters can be achieved. Outside sources typically supply the cannula and plastic hub. High-quality plastic should always be used, meaning it contains minimal reclaimed or “regrind” material. Typically, grade 304 or 316 stainless steel is used to make needles because it’s naturally resistant to corrosion. As a result, it can withstand different storage conditions and thorough sterilization.
Forming the needle shape is a critical step in how hypodermic needles are made.
First, the cannula is cut to the proper length. Then, it’s glued and inserted in the hub. Needles are ground from metal rods and refined to remove any existing burrs on the rims and cutting edges. This is an essential step to ensure patient safety and comfort. A robotic process sharpens the needlepoint to ensure a precise and (ideally) pain-free puncture.
Cannulas are passed through a pressure chamber where they are coated with a thin layer of silicone oil. Needles are usually packaged during the production line before sterilization. Needles are sterilized by Ethylene Oxide or gamma rays.
A visual inspection helps ensure that the tubing surface is smooth, clean, and free of defects and residue. It should be straight and equally round from top to bottom. Inspectors can use a 360-degree rotating viewer to get a close look at the product details. Viewing devices that also take photos are helpful for record-keeping.
For quality control, most modern manufacturers use a laser to measure the sharpness of the needle and to detect any burrs.
Needles are subjected to multiple tests, including:
In addition, a flow test is administered to ensure that the needle isn’t clogged. Very fine needles are more prone to fail testing. As a result, they must be discarded at a higher rate, which impacts pricing.
Needle manufacturers also check for a tight fit between the hub and the needle. The hub's color indicates the needle's gauge to meet the standards of ISO 6009. However, in certain instances some hub colors do not meet this standard for various reasons.
Air-Tite has a wide selection of high-quality needles to meet your needs. Our Exel International Dental Needles are specially designed and produced in a computer-controlled process to prevent needle breakage and offer patients a virtually pain-free experience. We also have a line of EZ FLO hypodermic needles ranging from 18-gauge to 30-gauge, featuring a standard bevel and both thin and regular wall options.
Tired of wasting expensive injectables? You’ll love TSK Low Dead Space and INViSIBLE Needles. These premium hypodermic needles are manufactured in Japan and reduce the needle's “dead space” to practically zero. The hub is made from a strong polymer that prevents breakage and pop-off, while the external hub threading prevents leaks.
Whether you need hypodermic needles for veterinary practices, aesthetics, or ophthalmics, Air-Tite has needles that are carefully designed and inspected to the highest industry standards. Our experts are happy to help you find the best products for your patients.
