When patients undergo long-term treatments such as chemotherapy or antibiotic infusion, a reliable vascular access device is essential. Among these, the implantable port

(also known as a port-a-cath) is widely used. To access it safely, healthcare professionals rely on a special medical device — the Huber needle.

Choosing the right Huber needle size is crucial for safe medication delivery, patient comfort, and protecting the vascular access system. Let's explore what size is commonly

used and why the 20G Huber needle is the most popular option.

What Size Needle Is Used to Access a Port?

The proper size of a Huber needle depends on the port type, the patient's anatomy, and the therapy being administered. Most implantable ports are accessed using

needles between 19G and 22G, with lengths from 0.75 inch to 1.5 inches.

19G Huber needle: Used for rapid infusions or blood collection.

20G Huber needle: The standard size for chemotherapy and general infusions.

22G Huber needle: Suitable for pediatric patients or low-flow infusions.

In oncology and hospital use, the 20G Huber needle is the most frequently chosen because it offers excellent flow while minimizing discomfort and port wear.

Common Huber Needle Sizes

The 20G Huber needle provides an ideal balance — wide enough for efficient fluid flow yet gentle enough for repeated port access.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Huber Needle

Selecting the correct huber needle involves more than just gauge size. Several factors affect the decision:

1. Port Type

Different implantable ports vary in septum thickness. The needle must fully penetrate the septum to reach the reservoir without touching the port's base.

2. Patient's Body Type

A longer needle (1”–1.25”) is needed for patients with deeper tissue, while thinner patients may require shorter ones for comfort and safety.

3. Infusion Requirements

Viscous fluids (like parenteral nutrition) require larger gauges such as 19G–20G, while low-viscosity drugs can be administered with 21G–22G.

4. Duration of Infusion

For long infusions like chemotherapy, patient comfort matters. The 20G Huber needle is widely favored for balancing flow rate and minimal tissue irritation.

5. Connector Design

A 20G Huber needle with connector includes flexible tubing and a luer lock fitting, ensuring safe handling, better mobility, and reduced dislodgement risk.

20G Huber Needle with Connector: The Preferred Choice

Among all configurations, the 20G Huber needle with connector is the most widely used in hospitals and infusion centers. It combines a non-coring 20G needle with

extension tubing and a secure connector, offering multiple advantages:

Improved safety: Reduces the chance of accidental disconnection.

Enhanced flexibility: Allows patient movement during infusion.

Closed system:Helps prevent contamination and infection.

Broad compatibility:Works with most implantable ports and vascular access devices.

Because of these features, it has become the first choice for oncology and critical care settings.

Advantages of the 20G Huber Needle

The 20G Huber needle offers several clinical and practical benefits that make it ideal for regular port access:

1. Efficient Flow

It maintains a smooth infusion rate without excessive pressure, protecting the vascular access device and ensuring accurate medication delivery.

2. Patient Comfort

With a moderate diameter and smooth bevel design, it minimizes pain and tissue trauma — important for patients receiving frequent treatments like chemotherapy.

3. Septum Protection

The non-coring design prevents tearing of the port's silicone septum, extending the lifespan of the implantable port.

4. Versatility

It supports a wide range of therapies, including chemotherapy, hydration, antibiotic administration, and nutritional infusions.

5. Secure Connection

The 20G Huber needle with connector ensures a tight, leak-free seal between the needle and infusion line, improving safety and reliability.

Best Practices for Safe Port Access

To ensure proper use of the Huber needle, healthcare professionals should follow these steps:

1. Use aseptic technique when preparing and inserting the needle.

2. Stabilize the port to prevent movement during insertion.

3. Insert at a 90° angle for accurate septum penetration.

4. Flush with saline before and after medication to maintain patency.

5. Replace the needle every 7 days for continuous therapy, as per hospital protocol.

These practices protect both the patient and the medical device, reducing infection risk and mechanical damage.

Conclusion

Selecting the correct Huber needle size is essential for safe and effective vascular access. While several gauges are available, the 20G Huber needle, particularly the 20G

Huber needle with connector, remains the most widely used for implantable ports. It delivers the ideal combination of flow rate, comfort, and safety for chemotherapy

and other long-term treatments.

By understanding port design, patient needs, and infusion requirements, clinicians can make the best choice — ensuring patient comfort and reliable performance of the

vascular access device.