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Integrated Punch Biopsy and Sample Storage Device

Technology Benefits

Punch biopsyprocedure in a single, efficient deviceSample istransported in a sealed tube, protecting it from contamination and greatlyreducing the risk of a failed biopsyDevice replacesspecimen bottles normally used to store biopsy samples, thus greatly reducingthe probability of mislabeling the sampleEliminates crushfactor by removing the need for forceps during sample extractionPrevents accidentalejection of any fluid or sample during transportationApplications inbiopsy procedures

Detailed Technology Description

Anintegrated punch biopsy device that can be used in the extraction and storageof skin samples.

*Abstract

Bycombining the extraction and storage of a sample in a single step, potentialfor contamination and errors is greatly reduced.  Furthermore, this device cuts down on thenumber of implements the physician must use to complete the procedure andeliminates the crush factor that damages nearly 40-50% of all punch biopsysamples. The likelihood of mislabelingskin samples is also decreased since the sample is stored in the same deviceused to create it, rather than transferred into a separate container.

*Background

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer suffered to date.  More cases of skin cancers are diagnosed eachyear than breast, prostate, colon, and lung cancers combined. According to theAmerican Cancer Society, in a single year there have been as many as 3.5million diagnosed cases of non-melanoma skin cancer and each year an estimated70,000 cases of melanoma will be diagnosed.   In an effort to identify and treat skin cancer occurrences early on,skin biopsy procedures are most commonly used as a diagnosis method. Currently,once a sample location is prepared, a cylindrical needle is used to create askin core that it then severed and lifted from a patient by the use of forcepsand shears.  The core is then transportedto the storage container using those forceps, exposing the sample to possiblecontamination.  Unfortunately, thismethod results in a large degree of errors due to sample extraction which cannegatively affect an estimated 50% of all procedures.  Many of these biopsies need to be redone inorder to provide a good sample to be used for analysis.  In some cases, it is not possible to performa second biopsy, in which case the health of the patient may be compromised dueto misdiagnosis. There is a present need for more efficient biopsy methods thateliminate the potential for errors and improve the overall biopsy procedure.

Country/Region

USA