Fine-needle aspiration anchor. A simple device to prevent needle-stick injury at fine-needle aspiration

Abstract

Pathologists and clinicians performing fine-needle aspiration for cytologic diagnosis are at risk of finger injury by the needle during the aspiration procedure. To prevent this occurrence and its accompanying potential for transmitting serious pathogens such as the human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B virus, we have designed a simple acrylic device (fine-needle aspiration anchor) consisting of two curved prongs with an attached handle, to take up the functions of the fingers for stabilization of the target lesion. Use of the fine-needle aspiration anchor on more than 1000 patients with various mass lesions has confirmed enhanced immobilization of the lesions for aspiration, safety for the person performing the procedure, and excellent patient acceptance.