Important factors in choosing an egg retrieval needle

???? Important factors:

Needle diameter (Gauge – G):

Usually 16G, 17G or 18G.

Small needles (17G–18G) cause less trauma, reduce pain and bleeding but aspirate more slowly.

Large needles (16G) aspirate faster, more effectively with many eggs but can cause more pain and tissue trauma.

Needle length:

Need to match the length of the vagina and anatomy of each patient.

Companies often provide many sizes (30–40 cm).

Needle tip design:

Single lumen: popular, used for direct egg aspiration.

Double lumen: allows aspiration – flushing to maximize egg recovery.

Moderately sharp beveled tip to easily penetrate tissue while still limiting damage.

Smoothness and surface treatment:

The needle has a thin silicone coating to reduce friction and less tissue trauma.

Limit the formation of blood clots in the needle.

Compatibility with the suction system:

The needle must be compatible with the connector, tube, and suction pump to create stable negative pressure and avoid damaging the egg.

Safety and certification:

Meet ISO, CE, FDA standards or equivalent.

Sterilized, single-use to avoid cross-contamination.

Clinical impression:

The needle is too large or too hard → the patient is in a lot of pain.

The needle is too small → difficult to collect the egg.

Doctors often choose a familiar needle, balancing the efficiency of egg collection and the level of trauma.

???? In summary: needle diameter, lumen design, sharpness - smoothness, length and safety are the most important factors when choosing an egg retrieval needle.