Sponsored by Air-Tite Aesthetics
Air-Tite Aesthetics (Virginia Beach, Va.) is the U.S. distributor for TSK Laboratory’s flagship STERiGLIDETM microcannulas. Owing to its patented design for easy cannula introduction, accurate filler placement and optimal patient comfort, STERiGLIDE is the premium cannula of choice for many of the profession’s most influential injectors.
TSK introduced this newly redesigned cannula to the market in 2012. Its improvements in fit, form and function soon set it apart from all others. In 2015, STERiGLIDE was awarded the prestigious Anti-Aging and Beauty Award as the “Best Injection Tool” in the industry. Specifically designed and improved by some of the profession’s key opinion leaders working with TSK’s engineers, it soon became recognized as the gold standard around the world.
STERiGLIDE microcannulas are made of the highest quality stainless steel with the addition of a proprietary surface treatment for reducing friction within the tissue planes. This reportedly minimizes patient discomfort, while improving cannula control. This innovative product enhances an injector’s technique and their patient’s experience. It was developed to be a true second-generation instrument, quickly progressing to the forefront of cannula usage.
The construction of the microcannula is slightly stiffer than most, allowing for enhanced control and precision in product placement. The hard polymer hub has a clear side-port marking which indicates the direction of the needle port while acting as a visual aid for the most accurate filler delivery.
Compared to a traditional cannula tip, the tip of the microcannula has a patented dome-shaped design which creates less resistance, thus easing insertion at the injection site while potentially reducing pain and bruising.
STERiGLIDE possesses the nearest to the tip delivery port, which enhances visualization and delivery of the filler near the end of the cannula, creating a more accurate sense of filler placement. It also reduces the potential for expensive product loss captured within the tip location of other cannulas.
Practitioners can easily locate and palpate the end of the cannula tip within the soft tissues. With the extrusion port being so near to the tip, it mimics the accuracy of a hypodermic needle, while reducing the possible side effects of swelling, oozing and bruising. Patients comment on having less pain as the cannula glides along its intended path.
The most popular dermal filler products available today have many different viscosities. The STERiGLIDE tube has an ultra-thin wall inner diameter, which allows the injection of many products with relative ease and less extrusion pressure. The hard polymer material and design of the STERiGLIDE hub offers reassurance that “pop-off” may be a thing of the past.
Coming soon in 2021, TSK will add a ninth member to the STERiGLIDE microcannula family, the much anticipated 22 G x 38 mm (1.5”) size. With many new indications for the larger gauge sizes, the 38 mm length will nicely complement the existing 50 mm and 70 mm products.
Editor’s Note: To learn more about the STERiGLIDE difference or to request free microcannula samples, please contact Air-Tite customer service.