Sponsored by TSK Laboratory International
Using the optimal needle can make a huge difference in retinal care.
In ophthalmology, where a fraction of a millimeter can be the difference between a perfect injection and a complication, the instruments in an ophthalmic practitioner’s hands are everything. The newly FDA 510(k)-cleared STERiJECT™ Ophthalmic Low Dead Space Needle (TSK Laboratory; Arlington, WA, USA) is the latest innovation poised to refine intravitreal injection routines across practices nationwide.
Designed with the eye in mind
The STERiJECT Ophthalmic Low Dead Space Needle is the result of over 50 years of TSK’s needle know-how, now fine-tuned for the exciting world of intravitreal injections.
As retinal conditions like neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), diabetic retinopathy (DR) and retinal vein occlusion (RVO) continue to rise, many clinics still rely on hypodermic needles never intended for ocular use.
The magic lies in STERiJECT’s low dead space design, which cuts down on the tiny pocket where medication loves to hide. The result? Almost every drop of your carefully measured dose reaches its target.1
For ophthalmologists dealing with pricey anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs or other specialized biologics, this means more predictable outcomes, less wasted medication and potentially lower costs over time.
Already trusted, now FDA-cleared
TSK’s needles were winning ophthalmologists’ trust long before the FDA stamp.
The STERiJECT 30G Ultra-Thin Wall needle has become a staple in the increasingly popular Yamane technique for scleral fixation of intraocular lenses, while the 32G 4 mm needle is now key in the ROP SAFER protocol for treating retinopathy of prematurity in neonatal and pediatric patients.2
From design to delivery, STERiJECT needles are engineered with safety in mind—ensuring smooth penetration, consistent flow and minimal trauma to delicate ocular tissues.
Safety without compromise
When it comes to intravitreal injections, even the tiniest contaminant or inconsistency can trigger serious complications. That’s why STERiJECT needles exceed industry standards.
Importantly, STERiJECT is the first Low Dead Space needle to receive FDA 510(k) clearance specifically for ophthalmic use, a milestone distinction from most existing needles that are only cleared for hypodermic applications. Until now, no dedicated ophthalmic-use LDS needle had been FDA cleared, meaning practices were often using devices not explicitly validated and designed for the delicate requirements of ocular injection.
This ophthalmic-specific clearance gives clinicians added assurance that every STERiJECT Ophthalmic Needle has been rigorously tested for safety, precision and compatibility in intraocular procedures.
Other key safety and quality standards include:
- FDA 510(k) cleared specifically for ophthalmic use
- Endotoxin limit of 0.2 EU per device, helping reduce the risk of acute inflammation
- Ophthalmic, intravitreal and intracameral irritation testing
- USP <789> particulate matter testing on every batch for full transparency
- Manufactured under strict ophthalmic-grade quality standards
- Compliant with ISO 80369-7 (2016) standards
- Extensive testing for biocompatibility, drug flow performance and sterilization integrity
Tiny details, big impact
The STERiJECT Ophthalmic Low Dead Space Needle brings a host of unique features and benefits that set it apart from conventional options:
- Minimized dead space
Thanks to its innovative Low Dead Space hub, almost every drop of medication reaches its target. Traditional needles can trap up to 0.042 mL in the hub, but STERiJECT trims that to nearly 0.0 mL. This is crucial when working with biologics requiring precise dosing.1 - Highest flow rate, lowest extrusion force
STERiJECT 33G Ophthalmic Needles achieved the highest flow rate of product passing through the barrel in testing. With an extrusion force of just 8.5 N (compared to 12.2 N in competitor products4, these needles deliver the smoothest and most consistent flow rate in their class, ensuring effortless handling and optimal control during injection.
- Ultra-sharp triple-bevel tip
Engineered for finesse, the tip reduces insertion force and tissue trauma, which is vital for delicate ocular structures. Lab tests show STERiJECT 33G needles need just 0.18 N of force—0.014 N less than competitors—potentially decreasing patient discomfort and procedure-day anxiety.3,4 - Dolphin nose glue dome
This clever design minimizes friction and tissue abrasion during insertion and withdrawal, helping maintain ocular integrity and potentially lowering the risk of subconjunctival hemorrhage and other injection-site issues. - Superior structural integrity
STERiJECT needles flex less and perform more predictably, with up to 40% greater rigidity than competitors (bending only 0.15 mm versus 0.25 mm). Pop-off resistance is 50 N for the 34G needle—22% stronger than competing products—supporting precise placement and confidence during injections.4 - Friction-reducing coating
A proprietary coating lets the needle glide effortlessly, reducing vitreous drag and giving ophthalmologists ultimate control. It also delivers the lowest extrusion force in testing—8.5 N versus competitors’ 12.2 N—ensuring smoother flow rates and more precise delivery.4 - Comprehensive size options
From 30G to 34G and lengths from 4 mm to 13 mm, with Regular Wall and Extra Thin Wall (ETW) options, STERiJECT offers versatility for nearly every clinical scenario and patient need.
A growing portfolio
The FDA clearance of the STERiJECT Ophthalmic Low Dead Space Needle is just one chapter in TSK’s growing story in the ophthalmic world. Building on the success of their specialized needles in established protocols, the company is gearing up to launch several new ophthalmic products over the next year.
While the specifics are still under wraps, TSK’s reputation as a trusted partner for leading global pharmaceutical companies hints that these upcoming innovations will continue to tackle unmet needs in ophthalmic drug delivery and surgical instrumentation, keeping clinicians ahead of the curve and patients in safe hands.
Ready for the clinic
The STERiJECT Ophthalmic Low Dead Space Needle is now available to ophthalmic practices across the United States following FDA 510(k) clearance. Its clever capsule case design makes assembly a breeze while reducing the risk of needle injury, which is a handy feature for practices performing high volumes of intravitreal injections.
Compatible with standard Luer-lock and Luer-slip syringes, these needles require no special equipment or adapters, making the switch smooth and seamless for practices already familiar with STERiJECT products.
Precision that keeps up
As retinal conditions requiring intravitreal therapy continue to rise, the need for purpose-built injection tools is clearer than ever. TSK’s investment in ophthalmic-specific technology mirrors a broader industry trend toward specialized instruments designed to tackle the unique challenges of ocular procedures.
The STERiJECT Ophthalmic Low Dead Space Needle isn’t just an incremental upgrade. It’s an example of how thoughtful engineering, guided by real-world clinical needs, can solve practical challenges while potentially improving patient outcomes.
For ophthalmologists demanding precise medication delivery, the STERiJECT Ophthalmic Low Dead Space Needle delivers an ideal mix of innovative design, clinical versatility and practical benefits, tuned to meet the evolving needs of modern ophthalmic practice.
Editor’s Note: The American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting 2025 (AAO 2025) is being held on 17-20 October 2025, in Orlando, Florida. Reporting for this story took place during the event. This content is intended exclusively for healthcare professionals. It is not intended for the general public. Products or therapies discussed may not be registered or approved in all jurisdictions, including Singapore.
References
- Introducing TSK Low Dead Space Needles For Anti-VEGF Injections. TSK Laboratory Europe BV. October 2020.
- Wright LM, Vrcek IM, Scribbick FW 3rd, Chang EY, Harper CA 3rd. Technique for Infant Intravitreal Injection in Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity. Retina. 2017;37(11):2188-2190.
- Pang CE, Mrejen S, Hoang QV, Sorenson JA, Freund KB. Association Between Needle Size, Postinjection Reflux, and Intraocular Pressure Spikes after Intravitreal Injections. Retina. 2015;35(7):1401-1406.
- Internal testing by TSK Laboratory International Japan. March 2025, compliant with ISO7864:2016, ISO9626:2016.