Point-of-Care Blood Analyzer Assesses Kidney Function in 30 Seconds

A new blood analyzer assesses kidney function in as little as 30 seconds.

The device analyzes a finger-prick sample of blood for levels of creatinine--an important indicator of a patient's renal function. Such blood values are often required to determine a patient's kidney function before intravenous (IV) contrast agents may be administered.

Evaluating a patient's kidney function can help determine patients' ability to safely receive IV contrast prior to computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging procedures--an important precaution especially for patients with risk factors such as diabetes, known kidney impairment, and advanced age. Currently, such blood tests must be sent to a lab before the patient can undergo a CT or MRI procedure, a time-consuming step that can cause delays in busy radiology departments.

Developed by E-Z-EM, Inc. (Lake Success, NY, USA) and Nova Biomedical (Waltham, MA, USA), the new EZ Chem blood analyzer has now been cleared for sale in the United States.

Brad S. Schreck, E-Z-EM's senior vice president, commented, "EZ Chem provides the ability to quickly and accurately assess kidney function where it is needed most, at the point-of-care. Screening for patients with renal insufficiency has been in focus recently, as certain contrast agents, particularly those used in MRI, have been associated with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis [NSF]--a debilitating and potentially severe condition that currently has no clear and widely successful treatment. We believe EZ Chem will help reduce the risks associated with the use of IV contrasts for certain patients while improving productivity in the imaging suites. We have been pleased to work with Nova Biomedical during the development phase and are excited to begin offering EZ Chem to the radiology and gastroenterology marketplace.”


Related Links:
E-Z-EM
Nova Biomedical