Süstlad

Süstlad, in Estonian, refers to syringes, medical devices used to inject liquids into the body or withdraw liquids from it. A syringe typically consists of a cylindrical barrel that holds the liquid, a plunger to create pressure or suction, and a needle or nozzle that delivers the liquid. The barrel is calibrated in milliliters or units on some types, enabling precise dosing.

Sizes range from small insulin and tuberculin syringes (0.3–1 mL) to larger 3–5 mL models and up to 20–50 mL for certain medical and laboratory applications. Most modern syringes are disposable plastic with a Luer slip or Luer lock connection for attaching a needle; some are designed as insulin syringes with a fixed needle and a unit scale for insulin dosing. There are also safety syringes with protective needle guards to reduce needlestick injuries.

Typical uses include administering vaccines and medications by intramuscular or subcutaneous routes, delivering intravenous injections, and drawing blood or other fluids in some contexts.

Used correctly, syringes require sterile packaging and aseptic technique. They are generally intended for single use and must be disposed of in designated sharps containers to prevent injuries and infection.

Historically, modern hypodermic syringes emerged in the 19th century through independent work by Charles Pravaz (France) and Alexander Wood (Scotland). Since then, syringes have evolved into disposable, sterile devices governed by medical-device regulations in most countries (for example, FDA in the United States and CE marking in the European Union).