Silverman biopsy needle - history, dimensions, uses & precautions

What is Silverman biopsy needle?

A Silverman biopsy needle is a particular kind of fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy needle that is used to remove tiny tissue samples from a patient for microscopic analysis.

Overview / Product Profile of Silverman biopsy needle:

A Silverman biopsy needle has thin and pointed tip that enable it to easily pierce soft tissue and collect a small sample of cells for examination. A radiologist or pathologist typically performs the procedure, and they will use imaging guidance (such as ultrasound or CT) to help direct the needle to the patient's body.

Dimensions:

Length:

The length of Silverman biopsy needle ranges from 14-16 gauge (1.67-1.29mm)

Outer diameter:

The outer diameter of Silverman biopsy needle is 0.46mm approx.

Inner diameter:

The inner diameter of Silverman biopsy needle is 0.3mm approx.

Bevel angle:

The bevel angle of Silverman biopsy needle is 25-30 degrees approx.

Note: The above dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and specific design of the instrument. It's always advisable to consult with the manufacturer's specifications and guidance for accurate measurements.

Uses of Silverman biopsy needle:

1) Breast biopsy: Taking tissue samples from suspected breast tumors or masses.
2) Thyroid biopsy: Taking tissue samples from thyroid nodules or other abnormalities of the thyroid.
3) Lung biopsy: Taking tissue samples from lung nodules or other abnormalities of the lungs.
4) Lymph node biopsy: Taking tissue samples from lymph nodes for examination.
5) FNAC (Fine-needle aspiration cytology): To obtain cell samples from diverse solid tumours and other masses.
6) Kidney biopsy: Taking samples of the renal tissues.

Precautions with Silverman biopsy needle:

1) It is important that the person performing the biopsy is properly trained and experienced in the use of the needle.
2) The needle should be properly sterilized before use to prevent infection.
3) The correct size of needle should be used for the specific procedure, as a needle that is too large or too small may not be effective or may cause damage to surrounding tissue.
4) The needle should be inserted into the tissue at the correct angle and depth to minimize the risk of complications.
5) The needle should be aspirated (pulled back) before and after insertion to confirm the needle is in the correct location and to obtain a sample.

6) The patient's vital signs should be closely monitored during and after the procedure.
7) The patient should be observed for any complications such as bleeding, infection, or pain, and should be advised on any follow-up care or testing.

History of Silverman biopsy needle:

Dr. Harold Silverman invented the Silverman biopsy needle, sometimes referred to as the fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy needle, in the 1960s. The Silverman biopsy needle was created by pathologist Dr. Silverman as a tool for performing fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsies when he saw the potential of employing a fine needle to acquire tissue samples for diagnostic reasons.

The Silverman needle is a thin-walled, flexible needle that can be used for both core biopsy and aspiration. The needle is made up of stainless steel and comes in a variety of gauges, including 22G, 21G, 20G, and 18G. It is intended to be used in conjunction with a syringe for aspiration or a spring-loaded biopsy tool for core biopsies.

This needle was initially used to diagnose thyroid disorders, but it was quickly used for a wide range of additional diagnoses, including breast, lung, and lymph node biopsies. Although the Silverman needle's fundamental structure has changed throughout time, improvements have been made to it.

The development of the Silverman needle changed the field of biopsy by allowing for the safe and painless collection of tissue samples from patients. Since then, it has evolved into a staple of pathologists' and radiologists' diagnostic toolkits.

Since it is a reliable and secure method of obtaining tissue samples for diagnostic purposes, it has also been utilised for many years and is still commonly employed today.