Blood sampling device and method using a laser
Abstract
Abstract A laser and method for punching tiny holes in human skin for the purpose of taking blood samples. A laser is provided for producing laser pulses in a narrow beam having a cross section of about 0.2 to 1.5 millimeter in diameter to deposit 0.5 joules to 4 joules of laser energy on the skin in a time period of between 5 us and 600 us. A preferred method comprises directing a 1.5 joule, 150 us, 0.5 millimeter diameter pulse at a patient's finger tip. The pulse vaporizes a hole about 1 mm in diameter and 1.5 mm deep to produce about one to three drops of blood for a blood sample. In another preferred embodiment a large vein in the arm is punctured by a four pulse beam of 1.5 joule pulses. A hole of about 1 mm diameter and about 4 mm deep is produced which permits blood samples of several milliliters to be taken.
Inventors
- 👤 Nikola I. Tankovich
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 9References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1995-11-24 | 1996-05-25 | 1996-11-24 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1999-11-24 | 2000-05-25 | 2000-11-24 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2003-11-24 | 2004-05-25 | 2004-11-24 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |