Which suture needles are best suited for stainless steel work?
All the sizes I use are 3/8 curved reverse cutting. Each surgical pack contains one #14 and #12. I use the #14 for the 5 – 0, 34 ga. and the #12 for the 4 – 0, 32 ga. In cold sterile solution, I keep a few #10s for use with the 3 – 0, 30 ga. for large dogs and for the occasional very small finesse situation, a #16. I’ve used Anchor needles throughout my career. They cost about $1.00 per needle in packs of 6, but are very good and I autoclave and reuse them. Be sure to detach the unused stainless steel piece from the needle. It is much easier for the surgeon to do than for the tech and guarantees it won’t be missed.
