CORRECT USE OF NEEDLE HOLDERS WITH NEEDLESTo avoid needle breakage resulting from undue stress, the correct needle holder should be used for the correct needle size (i.e. small needle holders for fine gauge needles and heavy-duty needle holders on heavy gauge needles). The needle holder should be applied on the needle flat section (a) about ¼ of the length of the needle from the eyed end. When withdrawing needle, clamp on shank about ¼ of the length from the point (b).