What is the size of the lesion created by a venom electrode/cannula compared to a 16g needle?

The lesion size created by a venom electrode or cannula is generally smaller than that produced by a 16-gauge needle. Venom electrodes are designed to deliver a precise and controlled amount of energy to a targeted area, which means the area of tissue affected is minimized. This allows for more localized treatment, leading to less collateral damage to surrounding tissues.

On the other hand, a 16-gauge needle would create a larger opening and potentially more extensive tissue damage, as it introduces a broader area of injury. The design of the venom electrode focuses on maximizing therapeutic effect while limiting the size of the lesion, resulting in a smaller, targeted lesion compared to the larger perforation made by the needle.

In summary, the fundamental nature of how these tools function and their intended purpose supports the conclusion that the lesion created by a venom electrode or cannula is indeed smaller than that created by a 16-gauge needle.