CLEARPREP
ClearPrep cytology is a partially-automated methodology that produces high quality, true monolayer slides. Numerous split sample and parallel clinical trials comparing ClearPrep to conventional preparations and also to the two leading machine-based technologies have shown that the ClearPrep slides are superior to the conventional preps, and at least as good as the more automated systems. There is strong evidence that the ClearPrep methodology has several advantages, particularly in the areas of glandular cell evaluation, optical clarity and cellularity at a much lower cost.
The commitment to total robotics and automation comes at a price. It is well understood that not all patient samples are created equal, and unless adjustments and allowances are made for difficult and challenging samples, the finished slide will be compromised. The ClearPrep technology allows for “sample specific” adjustments to eliminate mechanical artifacts and reduced cellularity. It is a simple technology that is easily incorporated into the laboratory routine.
ClearPrep Collection Vial
The patented (US Patent No. 9,039,636) ClearPrep collection vial is designed to maximize the removal of the cellular material from the collection device. The internal wall is lined with six ridges that provide resistance to the collection device to assist in transfer of the cellular material from the device to the preservative fluid. The ClearPrep collection vial contains 20 mL of ClearPrep Preservative.
ClearPrep Preservative
Each ClearPrep Collection Vial contains a buffered alcohol solution which has been engineered to provide maximum preservation of all cell types present in the screening sample. Squamous cells and glandular cells from various anatomical sites, each having different fixation requirements are commonly present, as may be various other cell types. An alcohol concentration that is too high will make some of the cells brittle and become fragmented during the process of the slide preparation. If the alcohol concentration is too weak, some of the cells are inadequately fixed, and are distorted on the final slide, which can compromise the screening process.
ClearPrep Cytology Solution
The ClearPrep Cytology Solution is a reagent that is formulated to balance chemically with the ClearPrep Preservative. The Cytology Solution facilitates the creation of a true monolayer cellular preparation, promotes cell adhesion to the glass surface to eliminate sample loss during the staining process, and also prevents air drying artifacts.
ClearPrep Slides and Transfer Pipettes
The microscope slide is also an innovative product that is integral to the ClearPrep process. The slide surface contains a 1 mm wide, 18x22 mm etched oval into which the cellular sample is dispensed. Etching of the oval creates a single focus point for the entire microscopic field of view. The use of etching to create the sample surface area also allows for expanding beyond the approximately 20 mm2area in cases that would be enhanced by the additional cellularity.
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