Is a Surecan Safety II (non-coring Huber-type) needle gauge 22 suitable for use with a Port-a-Cath (implantable venous access device)?

Use of Surecan Safety II Needle Gauge 22 with Port-a-Cath

A 22-gauge Surecan Safety II non-coring (Huber-type) needle is appropriate for accessing Port-a-Cath systems, provided it is a true non-coring design and used according to established safety protocols. 1, 2

Essential Requirements for Port Access Needles

Non-Coring Design is Mandatory

• Only non-coring (Huber-type) needles should be used to access implantable ports to prevent irreversible septum damage. 1, 2
• Standard cutting needles (regular IV needles) will core out pieces of the silicone septum, leading to port malfunction, leakage, and premature device failure 1, 2, 3
• Each needle puncture with a non-coring needle still creates microscopic damage to the septum, which accumulates over the port's lifetime 3, 4

Needle Gauge Considerations

• The 22-gauge size is appropriate and commonly used for port access 1
• Smaller gauge needles (22G or smaller) are generally preferred over larger gauges (19G) to minimize septum trauma and extend port life 1
• For patients requiring higher infusion rates through chest ports with catheters ≥6F, flow will be limited by the accessing needle size rather than the catheter lumen 1

Critical Safety Protocols

Maximum Dwell Time

• Non-coring needles must not remain in place for more than 7 days during continuous infusion therapy 1, 2, 5
• This 7-day limit balances infection risk against patient comfort and the need to minimize repeated septum punctures 2
• Changing needles every 7 days aligns with administration set replacement recommendations 2

Infection Prevention Requirements

• Scrub the port access site with 70% alcohol or 2% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% isopropyl alcohol before each needle insertion 2
• Allow antiseptic to air dry completely before needle insertion 2
• Use strict sterile technique throughout the access procedure 2, 6

Pressure Safety Considerations

• Always use syringes of 10 mL or larger when flushing or aspirating through the port to avoid excessive pressure that can damage the catheter 1, 2, 6
• Never use power injectors unless the port is specifically certified as "pressure injectable" or "power" rated (e.g., 325 psi rating) 1, 2

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Needle Selection Errors

• Verify the Surecan Safety II needle is truly non-coring (Huber-type) design—some safety needles are standard cutting needles with safety features 2
• Avoid resterilization of Huber needles, as safe sterilization of small lumina is impossible 3

Mechanical Complications

• Be aware that repeated needle impacts can create surface irregularities on plastic-based ports, potentially reducing flushing efficacy to 60% of baseline 4
• Needle tips can develop hooks during use that may cause additional septum damage 3
• Ensure proper needle insertion technique to avoid excessive force during puncture or withdrawal 3

Extended Dwell Time Risks

• While some polymer cannula systems have demonstrated safe access for mean dwell times of 19.4 days, standard metal Huber needles should still be changed every 7 days per current guidelines 2, 5
• Leaving needles in place beyond 7 days increases risk of skin erosion, infection, and port pocket complications 1, 2

Maintenance When Not Accessed

• Flush ports every 4 weeks with normal saline when not in active use 2, 6
• Use turbulent push-pause flushing technique for optimal catheter clearance 6