A very new application of lasers is for use as “lancets”—devices that create a t

Question

A very new application of lasers is for use as “lancets”—devices that create a tiny, very shallow hole in the finger which can be used to get a drop or two of blood for testing. This application can be used for diabetics, who need to routinely sample and test their blood for sugar levels several times a day. (Presently most jab their fingers with sharp needles to achieve the same purpose.) This laser technique is painless and the wounds tiny and easily healed. With this in mind, design on paper a possible laser lancet system as follows. Explain which laser you would use (there is more than one possible answer), explain in which mode (photocoagulation, photovaporization, etc.) you would use it, and how you would focus or defocus the beam. Use a sketch of the laser beam, a finger and any lens or lenses you need to illustrate your idea. Make clear your reasons for all of your design choices.

Explanation / Answer

Laser –lancet system is a novel FDA approved instrument that is used as an alternative to the needles and metal lancets used to puncture the skin and draw blood. The risk of infections caused by the use of sharp instruments might contaminate the diseases that are blood-borne like HIV and hepatitis B. The laser-lancet is a cost-effective instrument that can be used in the hospitals, blood donor centers, medical laboratories and doctor’s offices.

This instrument will send laser signals through a proprietary and disposable plastic tube. The laser pulse will poke the skin forming a small opening generally in the fingertip breaking open the skin and entering the capillaries.

It is proved and believed from the clinical trials that laser lancet system is fast and effective for the regular blood chemistry tests that need small amount of blood. The clinical trials have shown that laser lancet is preferred by the patients over needle sticks and the skin slits will get healed normally.

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