Physicochemical and mechanical evaluation of acupuncture needles.

This article focuses on evaluating the quality of acupuncture needles from nine commercial brands using physical–chemical and mechanical tests based on the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard 17218:2014, which governs sterile acupuncture needles for single use. Using scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and mechanical puncture, intensity, and sharpness tests, the study identified variations in needle surface integrity, elemental composition, and mechanical performance among brands, though all met ISO 17218:2014 requirements. The findings highlight the need for updated testing methodologies, greater transparency regarding needle composition to enhance patient safety, and the establishment of standardized material guidelines for acupuncture needles. These results provide quantitative data that may support future meta-analyses and revisions of ISO standards.