How Can Softening Needles Transform Patient Care?

The P-CARE needle, developed by researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), represents a significant advancement in intravenous (IV) therapy. Officially named the Phase-Convertible, Adapting, and Non-Reusable (P-CARE) needle, it is designed to soften upon insertion due to body temperature, thereby reducing the risk of damaging blood vessels and surrounding tissues.

The needle features an innovative design, where a hollow mechanical frame made of liquid metal gallium is encapsulated within soft silicone. In its solid state, the gallium is sturdy enough to puncture soft biological tissues. However, once inserted and exposed to body temperature, it melts and softens, mimicking the surrounding tissue to ensure stable drug delivery without causing additional harm.

This needle also incorporates a thin-film temperature sensor that enables real-time monitoring of a patient's core body temperature or detection of fluid leakage during IV medication administration. This integration enhances patient care by eliminating the need for additional medical tools or procedures.

In vivo studies conducted on mice have shown that the P-CARE needle significantly reduces inflammation compared to standard IV access devices, demonstrating its biocompatibility and reliability. Additionally, the needle's ability to soften irreversibly after use prevents accidental needlestick injuries and discourages the unethical practice of reusing needles, thereby addressing significant safety concerns in medical settings.

The potential impact of the P-CARE needle extends beyond patient safety. It aims to alleviate patient discomfort at injection sites, reduce the risk of blood vessel damage during IV medication, and mitigate the risks of blood-borne disease infections. This is especially crucial given the global context where an estimated 16 billion medical injections are administered annually, not all of which are properly disposed of.

By employing advanced materials and nanoengineering techniques, the P-CARE needle promises to revolutionize clinical practices and enhance healthcare standards worldwide. Researchers believe that its technology can be adapted to redesign other medical needles and sharp tools, further reducing muscle tissue injury during prolonged use.

References:

1. “An Intravenous Needle That Irreversibly Softens via Body Temperature on Insertion.” KAIST 전기 및 전자공학부, 19 July 2024, ee.kaist.ac.kr/en/research-achieve/an-intravenous-needle-that-irreversibly-softens-via-body-temperature-on-insertion/.