While we do want to explore the idea of an injectable version, currently we do have a validated 4G needle based procedure. The needle is used to make the incision and subdermal pocket, into which the Flex One can be inserted by manually picking it up with sterile gloves on and inserting it into the pocket.
The benefits of the needle procedure over a scalpel procedure include;
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the needle does the job of both incision and pocketing, whereas a scalpel would require a separate instrument to elevate the dermis after incision. Using the scalpel blade to separate dermis from lower tissues will almost always result in waffle-like depth that randomly cuts into dermis and down into subtissues. It’s a terrible installation method.
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the needle incision is smaller since it is a crescent shape that will “flatten out” to accept the Flex One as it’s inserted. This incision type also has the added benefit of not needing sutures to close properly. A simple butterfly bandage pulling the tissue tight, followed by a film or tegaderm bandage overtop of the whole thing will keep things together we’ll enough to properly heal.
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because it’s a needle based installation that requires no sutures, body piercers can perform the installation using standard body piercing equipment and techniques, opening up options for customers.