Comprehensive Analysis Of The Chiba Needle

The Preferred Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy Instrument in Interventional Radiology

https://radiopaedia.org/articles/chiba-needle

With the increasing prevalence of image-guided minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment, the Chiba Needle (also known as a Chiba biopsy needle or Chiba aspiration needle) has become one of the most commonly used fine-needle puncture instruments in interventional departments, ultrasound departments, and radiology departments worldwide. As a thin-walled, hollow, ultra-fine aspiration needle, it was originally developed and named by Chiba University in Japan, specifically designed for image-guided (ultrasound or CT) Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) cytological biopsy. It is also widely used for cyst or abscess aspiration and drainage, Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiography (PTC), vascular access establishment, and various image-guided interventional procedures.

From a manufacturer's perspective, a standard Chiba needle typically consists of a cannula (needle tube), a stylet (obturator), a hub (Luer Lock hub), and a depth stop. The cannula is usually made of medical-grade SUS304 or SUS316L stainless steel, offering excellent biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and sufficient rigidity. Some high-end models feature sandblasted or micro-engraved tips for enhanced ultrasound tip echogenicity (Echo Tip), facilitating real-time needle tip tracking under imaging. The hub is typically made of medical-grade ABS, PC, or PP plastic, with color coding by gauge (G) for quick identification by the operator.

Typical Chiba needle specifications range from 18G to 23G (commonly 20G, 21G, 22G), corresponding to outer diameters of approximately 0.7 mm–1.2 mm. Standard lengths are 9 cm, 15 cm, and 20 cm (approx. 3.5"–8"), with custom lengths up to 25 cm or 30 cm available upon request. The needle tip is generally designed with a short bevel (bevel angle 25°–30°) or a modified Quincke bevel. Coupled with an ultra-thin wall, this minimizes puncture resistance, reduces tearing of the organ capsule, and ensures adequate cellular specimen acquisition under negative pressure aspiration.

Unlike cutting biopsy needles (such as Tru-Cut or Franseen needles), the Chiba needle is an aspiration-type fine needle intended primarily to obtain cytological specimens rather than large tissue cores. It is therefore irreplaceable for the initial screening and diagnosis of thyroid micronodules, focal liver lesions, pancreatic masses, superficial lymph nodes, and small breast lumps. Manufacturers must pay particular attention to cannula concentricity, inner wall smoothness, and tip edge sharpness - these three factors directly determine puncture feel, patient pain level, and specimen adequacy.

It is worth noting that modern Chiba needle manufacturers are increasingly shifting from reusable models to single-use sterile packaging (EO – Ethylene Oxide sterilized) to meet hospital infection control requirements. Disposable Chiba needles commonly feature depth markings (per cm or 5 mm), sliding depth stops, locking transparent hubs, and for products exported to Europe and the US, must bear CE Marking and be manufactured under an ISO 13485 certified quality system.

For Chiba needle manufacturers, core competitiveness lies in: ① precision drawing and sizing of ultra-thin-walled stainless steel tubing; ② micron-level tip grinding and polishing; ③ optional ultrasonic echo marker processing; ④ stringent sterile packaging, particulate, and leakage testing. As precision minimally invasive procedures extend to primary care hospitals, the Chiba needle - as a "basic high-volume" interventional consumable - enjoys steady market demand and is a pillar product combining cost-effectiveness with shipment volume in interventional consumable product lines.