An analysis of the relationship between microneedle spacing, needle force and skin strain during the indentation phase prior to skin penetration
Matthew R. Potts, Samuel Lewin Evans, Rhys Pullin, Sion Coulman, James C. Birchall, Hayley Wyatt
Abstract
Microneedle (MN) array patches present a promising new approach for the minimally invasive delivery of therapeutics and vaccines. However, ensuring reproducible insertion of MNs into the skin is challenging. The spacing and arrangement of MNs in an array are critical determinants of skin penetration and the mechanical integrity of the MNs. In this work, the finite element method was used to model the effect of MN spacing on needle reaction force and skin strain during the indentation phase prior to skin penetration. Spacings smaller than 2-3 mm (depending on variables, e.g., skin stretch) were found to significantly increase these parameters.
Topics & Concepts
IndentationPenetration (warfare)Materials scienceBiomedical engineeringHuman skinFinite element methodComposite materialStructural engineeringMedicineMathematicsBiologyEngineeringOperations researchGeneticsAdvancements in Transdermal Drug DeliveryLipid Membrane Structure and BehaviorOcular Surface and Contact Lens