Low Dead Space Syringes: Your Questions Answered

Did you know that traditional syringes can waste up to 30% more medication compared to low dead space syringes? 

In the medical field, precision matters - especially when it comes to administering medications and vaccines. One innovation that has gained widespread attention is the low dead space syringe (LDSS). These syringes are designed to reduce medication waste and improve injection efficiency. So, what makes these syringes special, and why are more healthcare providers making the switch? In this article, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about LDSS to help you understand their benefits and uses.

What Is 'Dead Space'?

Dead space refers to the area within a syringe, typically the hub and needle, where fluid can remain trapped after the plunger is fully depressed. Traditional syringes have a higher dead space, meaning more medication can be left unused.

What Is a Low Dead Space Syringe?

A low dead space syringe is designed to have minimal space between the needle and the plunger when fully depressed. They usually feature a fixed rubber grommet that pushes up into the tip of the syringe. This minimises the amount of liquid left in the syringe hub and needle after an injection. This design ensures that less fluid is retained after an injection, reducing medication waste and the risk of contamination.

How Do Low Dead Space Syringes Help Reduce Disease Transmission?

By retaining less blood after use, LDSS decreases the likelihood of transmitting blood-borne infections such as HIV and hepatitis C if the syringe is accidentally reused or shared. Research indicates that wider adoption of LDSS could prevent new infections and be cost-effective. 

Do Low Dead Space Syringes Reduce Vaccine Wastage?

Yes. During mass vaccination campaigns (such as COVID-19), LDSS played a critical role in extracting additional doses from multi-dose vials, reducing overall vaccine wastage.

Why Are Low Dead Space Syringes Important?

• Reduce Medication Waste – Since less fluid is left behind in the syringe, more of the medication reaches the patient. This is particularly useful for expensive medications or vaccines.
• Improve Dosing Accuracy – More precise delivery ensures patients receive the correct dosage.
• Help Prevent Cross-Contamination – Some LDSS designs reduce the risk of contamination, making them a safer option in certain clinical settings.

When Are Low Dead Space Syringes Recommended?

Low dead space syringes are often recommended in specific situations, including:

• Administering expensive medications: Minimising waste is crucial when dealing with costly treatments.
• Paediatric patients: Accurate dosing is especially important for children, where even small variations can have a significant impact.
• Certain medical procedures: They may be preferred in specific procedures where precision is paramount.
• Reducing the risk of disease transmission: As mentioned above, the design can play a role in reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

Are There Different Types Of Low Dead Space Syringes?

Yes, LDSS come in various forms, including:

• Fixed-needle syringes: The needle is permanently attached, eliminating almost all dead space.
• Detachable-needle syringes: Designed with low dead space features, these have a detachable needle and are preferred by some users for their versatility.

Who Can Benefit From Using Low Dead Space Syringes?

LDSS are widely used and are beneficial for:

• Healthcare providers: To reduce medication waste and enhance patient safety.
• Individuals self-administering injections: Such as those with diabetes, to ensure accurate dosing and minimise waste.
• Needle exchange programs: For people who inject drugs, to lower the risk of transmitting infections if equipment is reused or shared.

Are Low Dead Space Syringes More Expensive?

While the initial cost of LDSS may be slightly higher, the reduction in medication waste and the potential decrease in healthcare costs associated with treating blood-borne infections make them a cost-effective choice in the long term.

Are Low Dead Space Syringes Compatible with All Medications?

Most LDSS work like standard syringes and are compatible with a wide range of medications. However, always check manufacturer guidelines to ensure compatibility with specific drugs or vaccines.

Are Low Dead Space Syringes Used in the NHS?

Yes. The NHS and other UK health organisations utilise LDSS for vaccinations, clinical treatments, and harm reduction initiatives. Their ability to optimise medication use and improve patient safety makes them an increasingly preferred choice in healthcare settings.

Where Can I Buy Low Dead Space Syringes?

You can purchase high-quality LDSS directly from us here at SHD Medical. We supply a range of trusted medical products from reputable brands such as Unisharp and Terumo to support healthcare professionals, pharmacies, and harm reduction services across the UK.

Important Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any questions regarding medication administration or the use of medical devices.

Sources:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/drug-health-harms-national-intelligence/national-intelligence-network-on-drug-health-harms-briefing-march-2018 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Low_dead_space_syringe

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9522423/

https://arc-w.nihr.ac.uk/research/projects/low-versus-high-dead-space-syringes-user-preferences-and-attitudes/