[ST-52] Statement on blunt suture needles

Cuts or needle-stick injuries occur in 1% - 15% of operations. The most common cause of suture needle injury is suturing fascia, during which 59% of all suture needle injuries occur.

Blunt suture needles permit suturing of fascia and other structures with minimal risk of injuring the surgeon, even when the surgeon's glove is punctured. All published studies to date have demonstrated that the use of blunt suture needles can substantially reduce or eliminate needle-stick injuries from surgical needles.

The ACS supports the universal adoption of blunt suture needles as the first choice for fascial suturing to minimize or eliminate needle-stick injuries from surgical needles. Blunt suture needles should be available in various sizes and with a range of suture adequate for different surgical applications.

The ACS encourages further investigation of blunt suture needles for use in other surgical applications.

This statement was prepared by the Committee on Perioperative Care and approved by the Board of Regents at its June 2005 meeting.

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Reprinted from Bulletin of the American College of Surgeons
Vol.90, No. 11, November 2005

Statements