Oocyte (egg) retrieval or ovarian puncture is a procedure carried out in the IVF process during which the ovary is stimulated using specific drugs and then, using a special needle called the Ovum Aspiration Needle, and under the guidance of ultrasound imaging, oocytes are extracted from the ovary and stored in laboratory conditions. This procedure is performed under short-term anesthesia.
| Model | Gauge (G) | Length (cm) | Flushing Sys. |
| 17G32 SP | 17 | 32 | – |
| 17G32/35 LL | 17 | 32/35 | Luer Lock Hub |
| 17G32 3W | 17 | 32 | 3 Way Stopcock |
1. Preparation:
o The patient undergoes ovarian stimulation to produce multiple follicles.
o HCG or another trigger injection is given to mature the oocytes before retrieval.
2. Procedure:
o Performed under sedation or anesthesia.
o The needle is guided through the vaginal wall into the ovaries using transvaginal ultrasound.
o The follicular fluid containing the egg is aspirated into a collection tube.
3. Post-Aspiration:
o The fluid is transferred to a lab where embryologists search for oocytes under a microscope.
Ovum Aspiration Needles Oocyte (egg) retrieval or ovarian puncture is a procedure carried out in the IVF process during which the ovary is stimulated using specific drugs and then, using a special needle called the Ovum Aspiration Needle, and under the guidance of ultrasound imaging, oocytes are extracted from the ovary and stored in laboratory conditions. This procedure is performed under short-term anesthesia.
| Design and Materials | Lumen Types |
•Biocompatible Material: | • Single Lumen Needles: Simple, hollow design with one channel for aspiration. Faster and easier to handle, making them ideal for routine oocyte retrieval. Lower chance of tissue damage due to reduced manipulation. Preferred when flushing follicles is unnecessary or contraindicated |
| Size and Gauge | Specialized Types |
| • Thin-Gauge Needles (18G–20G): Cause minimal discomfort and tissue trauma. Suitable for patients with sensitive ovaries or when reducing bleeding risk is essential. Typically used in low-risk, standard procedures. • Thick-Gauge Needles (16G–17G): Allow faster aspiration due to the larger diameter. Slightly higher risk of discomfort or tissue trauma. Often preferred in cases where a large number of oocytes are expected, as they reduce procedure time. • Length: Usually ranges from 30–40 cm, ensuring sufficient reach to the ovaries. The length is tailored to work effectively with transvaginal ultrasound guidance. | • Flushing Needles: o Specifically designed to allow efficient flushing of follicles for optimal retrieval. o Used in cases where oocytes are harder to retrieve, such as in diminished ovarian reserve. • Customizable Length Needles: o Feature adjustable lengths to accommodate varying patient anatomies. o Useful in cases where ovaries are positioned atypically or deeper within the pelvic cavity. • Flexible Needles: o Some ovum aspiration needle models include flexibility to reduce pressure on surrounding tissues, especially in cases of difficult access. |
| Tip Design | Accessories and Attachments |
| • Beveled Tip: Sharp and precisely angled to penetrate ovarian tissue and follicular walls efficiently. • Echogenic Marking: Many Ovum Aspiration Needles feature markings on the tip that make them visible under ultrasound, ensuring accurate placement. | • Tubing and Aspiration System: The Ovum Aspiration Needles is connected to an aspiration system that applies gentle suction to extract the follicular fluid. •Temperature Control: The aspiration setup often includes systems to maintain the temperature of the retrieved fluid, preserving oocyte viability. • Handle and Ergonomics: Designed for secure handling and control by the operator. |
| Advantages | Selection Criteria for OPU Needles |
| •Minimally invasive procedure when performed with precision. •Allows retrieval of multiple oocytes in a single session. •Compatible with both straightforward and challenging cases. | • Patient Anatomy: Larger needles for deeper ovaries or smaller ones for shallow access. • Follicle Characteristics: Dual-lumen needles for small, difficult follicles; single lumen for routine cases. •Clinician Preference: Based on experience and comfort with specific designs. •Procedure Requirements: Use of flushing needles in challenging retrievals or thin-gauge needles to prioritize patient comfort. By tailoring the needle choice to the clinical scenario, practitioners can maximize oocyte retrieval success while minimizing patient discomfort and procedure risks. |
