The purpose of a Probe Suction Needle is to facilitate disintegrating and emulsification of tissue. In particular, it is designed with a hollow structure to place ocular tissue and a lateral opening to direct laser radiation onto the tissue to be disintegrated. The following is a detailed description of the different embodiments of a Probe Suction Needle. It can be helpful for surgeons when performing surgical procedures involving the eye.
A probe has a tip, or "blade," formed of polypropylene. This tip is the part of the needle where the vacuum is applied. A finger is placed over the tip of the probe to activate the device. The light guides are embedded in the inner wall coating of the Probe Suction Needle. The outer wall of the Probe Suction Needle is made of ceramic or titanium. A suitable inner coating is used to conduct laser radiation.
The effectiveness of the 11-gauge Probe Suction Needle is also demonstrated in a study in which rebiopsy rates were compared between patients undergoing stereotactic core needle biopsies using an 11-gauge vacuum suction needle and those undergoing the same procedure using a 14-gauge needle and automatic gun. Although there is a significant discrepancy in the number of patients who underwent repeat biopsies, the effectiveness of the device was confirmed by the reduction in rebiopsy rates.
Before undergoing a Probe Suction Needle, a mammogram is performed. This allows the doctor to identify the exact location of the tumor using different angles. Once a diagnosis has been made, the needle tip is inserted into the abnormal area. This is a great method to identify suspicious microcalcifications, small masses, and other abnormal areas that are not visible through ultrasound. The patient may be in the recumbent position or lying down with her breast hanging through a table.
