The needle catcher--a safer way to suture.

The needle catcher is a novel surgical instrument which has been developed in Belfast in conjunction with Queen's University Belfast that aims to reduce suture needle exposure and increase operator safety during suturing. The instrument was used to close wounds in 20 patients presenting to A&E in the Royal Group of Hospitals and to the plastic surgery service in the Ulster Hospital. This letter includes a technical description of the instrument, evaluation of needle exposure, comments from users, evaluation of the needle catcher and a discussion on the need for additional protection for medical staff in surgical based specialties where there is frequent exposure to blood, open wounds and sharps.