When drawing blood, choosing the right needle type can affect patient comfort, sample quality, and procedure efficiency.

Two of the most common tools are the butterfly needle (also called a winged infusion set) and the straight needle (standard venipuncture needle used with vacutainer holders).

Although both are used for blood collection, their design and handling differ significantly.

Let’s explore how they compare in everyday clinical practice — and which one might be right for your needs.

 

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What Is a Butterfly Needle?

 

A butterfly needle features two flexible “wings” near the needle base and a thin tubing line connecting the needle to the collection device.

This setup allows greater control, flexibility, and a smoother insertion angle — especially helpful for patients with small, fragile, or rolling veins.

Typical applications include:

 

• Pediatric and geriatric blood collection

• PRP and regenerative medicine procedures

• IV infusions or medication administration

• Difficult or superficial veins

 

 

What Is a Straight Needle?

 

A straight needle, also known as a vacutainer needle, is a rigid, double-ended needle used with a plastic holder and collection tubes.

It’s the standard choice for routine venipuncture in healthy adult patients with easily accessible veins.

Key features:

 

• Direct, firm insertion (no tubing)

• Faster blood flow

• Cost-effective for high-volume lab use

• Requires stable vein access and good technique

Feature	Butterfly Needle	Straight Needle
Structure	Winged base + flexible tubing	Rigid needle with direct holder
Ease of Use	Easier for small or fragile veins	Requires more precision and stability
Control	Excellent — wings allow fine adjustments	Limited once inserted
Comfort	Higher patient comfort	Slightly more discomfort during insertion
Speed	Slower blood flow	Faster collection
Cost	Higher	Lower
Safety	Often includes safety lock mechanisms	Basic — relies on user technique

 

 

 

When to Choose a Butterfly Needle

 

Butterfly needles are ideal when control and comfort matter more than speed.

They are particularly useful for:

 

• Children or elderly patients

• Veins that are thin, mobile, or difficult to locate

• PRP or regenerative medicine procedures requiring gentle collection

• Clinics prioritizing patient comfort and reduced hemolysis

 

👉 Shop high-quality options:

BD Vacutainer 23G Butterfly Needle – 400 pcs

BD Vacutainer 21G Butterfly Needle – 400 pcs