Where to inject a subcutaneous tick? - briefly
Inject the device into the subcutaneous layer of a well‑vascularised, non‑hairy region such as the outer upper arm or lower abdomen. Avoid areas with scar tissue, major blood vessels, or excessive adipose thickness.
Where to inject a subcutaneous tick? - in detail
A subcutaneous injection of a tick should be performed in an area with sufficient fatty tissue, minimal movement, and easy access for monitoring. The preferred locations are:
- Upper outer quadrant of the abdomen, midway between the umbilicus and the iliac crest.
- Lateral thigh, halfway between the hip and the knee on the outer side.
- Upper arm, over the deltoid region, avoiding the neurovascular bundle.
Select the site after confirming that the skin is clean, the animal (or patient) is restrained, and the region is free of lesions. Use a 25‑ to 27‑gauge needle, insert at a 45‑degree angle to the skin, and advance until the hub rests against the subcutaneous layer. Deposit the tick gently, then withdraw the needle and apply light pressure with sterile gauze.
Key considerations:
- Verify that the chosen spot contains at least 1‑2 cm of subcutaneous fat to prevent accidental intramuscular placement.
- Rotate injection sites for repeated procedures to reduce tissue irritation.
- Observe the area for signs of inflammation, infection, or tick migration for at least 24 hours.
Proper site selection, needle handling, and post‑injection observation ensure successful subcutaneous placement and minimize complications.