Fineneedle

Fineneedle is a term used to describe a family of ultra-fine needles designed for precision tissue sampling and targeted therapeutic delivery in minimally invasive medical procedures. The concept combines microfabrication with biocompatible materials to produce slender shafts with sharpened tips and options for integrated sensing. Individual needles typically range from 30 to 40 gauge in diameter and vary in length from a few millimeters to several centimeters, depending on the intended use. The needles may be passive or incorporate micro-actuators and sensors that provide feedback on insertion depth, tissue stiffness, or local temperature.

Design and technology: Fineneedle devices are generally composed of biocompatible polymers or nickel-titanium alloys. Some implementations use hollow needles for aspiration or drug delivery, while solid needles are used for mechanical sampling. Advanced variants embed MEMS-scale sensors or small electrochemical probes, enabling real-time data during procedures. Sterilization methods include gamma irradiation or ethylene oxide, with single-use disposables preferred in many settings.

Applications: The Fineneedle system is used in fine-needle aspiration biopsies, localized chemotherapy or analgesic delivery, and neural interfacing in research settings. In surgery, the needles enable precise depth control and reduced tissue trauma compared with traditional needles.

History and status: The concept emerged from collaborations between medical device researchers and clinicians in the late 2000s. Several prototypes entered limited clinical trials in the 2010s, with broader adoption in the 2020s in some regions. Safety, cost, and regulatory approval remain ongoing considerations.

Related topics include fine-needle aspiration and needle biopsy.