AUSTIN, TEXAS AND FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J. (May 11, 2022) – Babson Diagnostics, a science-first, health care technology company, and BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), a leading global medical technology company, today announced the expansion of a strategic partnership to move blood sample collection into new care settings, including enabling patients to collect blood samples at home for diagnostic testing.

Since 2019, the two companies have collaborated to create a capillary blood collection and testing system, now in advanced development, to enable laboratory-quality, small-volume capillary blood collection at retail settings by team members with no previous experience in blood collection. Plans under the expanded agreement include continuing research and development to enable self-collection, mobile services and at-home collection. Babson and BD also will expand the types of blood tests that are possible through small-volume blood collection beyond primary care-oriented tests, and they also plan to develop diagnostic tests for pediatric use.

“Today’s agreement expands our long-standing partnership with BD and builds on our shared passion of making convenient blood testing accessible to all, not only in the U.S., but also globally,” said David Stein, chief executive officer of Babson Diagnostics. “Extending the medical home is critical in today’s health care environment. We believe that retail convenience is perfect for today’s consumer, but because the Babson service is well-suited to many settings with no need for a phlebotomist and an easier collection experience, we see many opportunities for future expansion.”

Over this long-term collaboration, Babson and BD are advancing development of the blood testing ecosystem, which includes BD’s next generation capillary collection technology and Babson’s proprietary automated sample-handling and analytical technologies. These have been designed to work together to enable blood testing that requires only one-tenth the sample volume of traditional venipuncture methods without sacrificing quality, accuracy, or the number and types of tests that are possible.

“This is a paradigm-shifting solution that addresses multiple unmet needs within the current health care system,” said Brooke Story, president of Integrated Diagnostics Solutions for BD. “Because it is less invasive and more convenient than the traditional venous blood draw method, capillary blood collection may lead to an improved patient experience, which in turn could help health care providers see better compliance among patients for routine blood testing.”

BD brings 70 years of specimen management experience to the partnership and is a leader in blood collection technology, including the development of the new, state-of-the-art capillary collection device[i]. Babson provides deep instrument analyzer expertise and is building an ecosystem for blood collection in the pharmacy setting as well as designing the systems and workflows to analyze small volume capillary blood in a central lab. Babson continues to work with local and national pharmacy chains to conduct extensive clinical studies of its service platform in preparation for commercial launch.

[i] The capillary collection device is an investigational device under 21 C.F.R. 812 and requires additional studies to make any definitive conclusions about safety or efficacy

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An endometrial biopsy is a simple office-based procedure where a doctor removes a small amount of tissue from inside the uterine cavity. This tissue is called the endometrium. To find out if any abnormal cells are present, the doctor must sample the endometrial tissue to be tested and evaluated under a microscope.

An endometrial biopsy is used to diagnose or rule out endometrial cancer or precancerous changes in the tissue called endometrial hyperplasia.

Women with postmenopausal bleeding, heavy periods, irregular periods, or abnormal findings on a sonogram may be candidates for this procedure. Most often, an endometrial biopsy is performed as part of the evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding, but it also is used in cases of infertility.

What does this procedure involve?

The gynecologist inserts a thin, flexible tube called a pipelle into the uterine cavity through the cervix’s opening called the cervical os. Using negative pressure, the doctor pulls a small amount of endometrial tissue into the pipelle for sampling. The procedure takes only a few minutes and causes mild cramps.

Where is an endometrial biopsy procedure performed?

Gynecologists perform endometrial biopsy procedures in an office setting.

Can my family visit me?

Endometrial biopsies are performed in a medical office setting. The vast majority of patients will be able to drive themselves to and from the procedure. Some may prefer a trusted family member to bring them. 

Does my procedure require an anesthetic?

Anesthesia is not typically required for an endometrial biopsy procedure. Some physicians spray a topical anesthetic directly onto the cervix. Occasionally, gynecologists provide local anesthesia via a paracervical anesthetic.

A paracervical block is an anesthetic technique done by a gynecologist to numb the uterus. Medication is injected into the cervical tissue to reduce pain during surgery.

Some gynecologists recommend oral medication to reduce anxiety

What’s the procedure when I check in?

Most procedures will involve a preoperative visit with your surgeon. The risks and benefits of the procedure will be discussed in detail and questions regarding your procedure are discussed.

The consent form is reviewed, signed, or updated with any changes.

Because an endometrial biopsy is performed in an office setting, the experience will feel like a normal office visit. After checking in, you will be taken to a procedure room. The medical assistant will prepare the room and provide a gown or leg coverings. When all is prepared, your surgeon will come and review any last-minute questions.

What happens in the procedure room?

Your surgeon will help position your legs into the stirrups. A speculum is placed into the vagina to allow visualization of the cervix, the opening of your uterus located at the back of the vagina.

Once the speculum is in position to allow visualization of the cervix, the procedure will attempt to pass a small pipelle through the cervix into the endometrial cavity. If the cervical os (opening) is too narrow, then the doctor will attach an instrument called a Tenaculum to the top of the cervix to stabilize the uterus. Then, they will use a small tool to dilate the cervix wide enough for the pipelle to enter. 

Once the pipelle is safely inside the uterus a small amount of endometrial tissue is pulled into the tube for sampling. 

These cells are sent to a pathologist for evaluation. 

After the biopsy, the speculum is removed and the procedure is complete. Some patients will experience mild bleeding, spotting or a brown, coffee-ground vaginal discharge over the next few days.

How long will I be in the procedure?

Once the patient enters the procedure room a series of safety steps must occur.

An endometrial biopsy procedure takes approximately 2–5 minutes. This includes the surgical time as well as accounting for positioning, the speculum insertion, a paracervical block anesthetic, and removal of the instruments

When can I go home?

After an office-based endometrial biopsy procedure, patients may go home after getting dressed as long as you are feeling normal.

Post-procedure recovery time will vary from person to person.

Endometrial biopsy procedures require a minimal amount of recovery. Patients may leave as soon as the procedure is complete.

AFTERCARE AND RECOVERY QUESTIONS

What is the usual recovery time

You should be able to resume all work and household activities on the same day as your procedure. You should expect to feel a little vaginal soreness for 2–3 days. Mild uterine cramping is also common.

• Some patients will require mild pain medication like NSAIDs.
• It is wise to wear a sanitary pad for a few days as you may experience vaginal spotting or dark vaginal discharge.
• You will be instructed to abide by pelvic rest for approximately 1–2 days. This includes no douching, no sex, and no tampons.
• You should call your doctor if you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, fevers, or worsening abdominal pain.

What aftercare is required?

Most women should be able to return to normal daily activities the same day. You should speak with your physician regarding the resumption of sexual activity. Typically, the recommendation is to avoid vaginal intercourse for 1–2 days.

You should not use tampons for 1–2 days after the procedure to reduce the potential risk of infection.

Light bleeding, spotting, and brown or black discharge is common and expected. Sanitary napkins are advised.

Your doctor will schedule a postoperative examination to review the pathology report findings. If any abnormalities are found on the biopsy, your doctor will discuss the next steps

Danger Signals to look out for after the procedure

After an endometrial biopsy procedure, we expect light spotting and vaginal discharge.

If you experience heavy bleeding, abdominal or pelvic pain, a fever, or pain that increases over time beyond 24 hours, call your physician. After any surgery contact your physician if you meet any of the following criteria:

• Pain not controlled with prescribed medication
• Fever > 101
• Nausea and vomiting
• Calf or leg pain
• Shortness of breath
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

What should I pack at home?

Nothing special is required after an endometrial biopsy procedure. A supply of sanitary napkins will help keep your clothing clean.

What information should I provide to my doctors and nurses?

It is very important to provide your doctor with an updated list of all medications, vitamins, and dietary supplements prior to surgery. All medication and food allergies should be reviewed. Share any lab work, radiologic procedures, or other medical tests done by other healthcare providers with your surgeon prior to your procedure.

Still have questions?

Read through any existing comments in the section below and if you still need information on this procedure please do leave your questions in the comments section.

The post Preparing for an Endometrial Biopsy appeared first on Medika Life.

The doctor’s office calls a few days after your annual pap smear. This can’t be good news. They say you have an “abnormal” pap smear. You get scheduled for a diagnostic procedure called a colposcopy to rule out cervical cancer.  

What is a Colposcopy

Before you hit the panic button, let’s break down exactly what you need to know about a colposcopy procedure. 

A colposcopy is a common office procedure that follows an abnormal pap smear. Using a microscope, doctors examine the magnified cervix to identify abnormal cervical tissue to prevent cervical cancer. 

Precancerous cells are caused by HPV, the human papillomavirus.

80% of Americans will contract HPV, making it the most common sexually transmitted infection. HPV causes genital warts, and persistent strains lead to cervical, vaginal, anal, throat, and neck cancer. Despite screening programs, 4,000 US women die from HPV related cervical cancer annually. 

Cervical screening through pap smear is how women’s health practitioners detect HPV effects. Paps smears are the first step in cervical cancer prevention. 

A pap (Papanicolaou) smear is a screening test for cervical cancer. The cervix is the opening of the uterus located at the back of the vagina. During a pap smear, doctors place a device called a speculum into the vagina. This allows the walls of the vagina to be spread apart allowing visualization of the cervix.

Cervical cells are then collected using a small brush. These cells are sent to a lab for analysis. The cells are processed under a microscope to evaluate for precancerous changes called cervical dysplasia. 

The goal of pap screening is to detect abnormal cervical changes so we can intervene long before cervical cancer develops.

When someone has an abnormal pap smear, the next step is a diagnostic procedure called a colposcopy.

A colposcopy is an office procedure that allows your doctor to visualize the cervix more closely using a microscope. The colposcope identifies abnormal cervical tissue that cannot be seen with the naked eye. 

Areas of the cervix concerning for pre-cancer or cancer can then be biopsied (sampled) during the exam.

If the biopsy shows a precancerous lesion then, your healthcare provider may recommend a LEEP (loop electrosurgical excision procedure.)

Where is a colposcopy procedure performed?

A colposcopy procedure is performed in an office setting.

Can my family come with me?

Colposcopy procedures are performed in a medical office setting. A trusted family member should drive you to and from the appointment. 

Does my procedure require an anesthetic?

Anesthesia is not typically required for a colposcopy procedure. Some physicians spray a topical anesthetic directly onto the cervix. Occasionally local anesthesia can be provided via a paracervical anesthetic. 

A paracervical block is an anesthetic technique done by a gynecologist to numb the uterus. Medication is injected into the cervical tissue to reduce pain during surgery. 

Some gynecologists recommend oral medication to reduce anxiety.

What’s the procedure when I check-in?

Most procedures will involve a preoperative visit with your surgeon. The risks and benefits of the procedure will be discussed in detail and questions regarding your procedure are discussed.

The consent form is reviewed, signed, or updated with any changes.

Because a colposcopy is performed in an office setting, the experience will feel like a normal office visit. After checking in, you will be taken to a procedure room. The medical assistant will prepare the room and provide a gown or leg coverings. When all is prepared, your surgeon will come and review any last-minute questions..

What happens in the procedure room?

Your surgeon will help position your legs into the stirrups. A speculum is placed into the vagina to allow visualization of the cervix, the opening of your uterus located at the back of the vagina.

The provider will position the colposcope (microscope) to allow visualization of the cervix. A chemical called acetic acid is applied to the cervix. Acetic acid, also known as vinegar, is applied to the cervix. (We call it acetic acid so we can sound smarter).  

Cells infected with HPV will absorb this chemical causing them to turn white. During the colposcopy, the doctor will see these characteristic changes, and any abnormal areas are may be sampled.

After the biopsy, a drying chemical called Monsel’s solution is painted onto the cervix to prevent bleeding later on. This chemical is messy and will cause a brown, coffee-ground vaginal discharge over the next few days.

How long will I be in the operating room?

Once the patient enters the procedure room a series of safety steps must occur. 

A colposcopy procedure takes approximately 2–5 minutes. This includes the surgical time as well as accounting for positioning, the speculum insertion, a paracervical block anesthetic, and removal of the instruments.

When can I go home?

After an office-based colposcopy procedure, patients may go home after getting dressed as long as you are feeling normal.

Postoperative recovery time will vary from person to person.

Colposcopy procedures require a minimal amount of recovery. Patients may leave as soon as the procedure is complete.

What is the usual recovery time

You should be able to resume all work and household activities on the same day as your procedure. You should expect to feel a little vaginal soreness for 2–3 days. Mild uterine cramping is also common.

Some patients will require mild pain medication like NSAIDs.

It is wise to wear a sanitary pad for a few days as you may experience vaginal spotting or dark vaginal discharge.

You will be instructed to abide by pelvic rest for approximately one week. This includes no douching, no sex, and no tampons.

You should call your doctor if you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, fevers, or worsening abdominal pain.

What aftercare is required?

Most women should be able to return to normal daily activities the same day. You should speak with your physician regarding the resumption of sexual activity. Typically, the recommendation is to avoid vaginal intercourse for 1–2 weeks.

You should not use tampons for up to seven days after the procedure to reduce the potential risk of infection.

Light bleeding, spotting, and brown or black discharge is common and expected. Sanitary napkins are advised.

Your doctor will schedule a postoperative examination to evaluate your cervix 1–2 weeks after the procedure. The cervical specimen pathology report will be reviewed during this visit.

If cervical dysplasia is proven on the biopsy, your doctor will discuss the next steps. If the biopsy is normal or mild cervical dysplasia is found, a follow-up pap smear will be scheduled. If moderate or severe cervical dysplasia is identified, the provider will discuss treatment options.

Danger Signs to look out for after the procedure

After a colposcopy procedure, we expect light spotting and vaginal discharge.

If you experience heavy bleeding, abdominal or pelvic pain, a fever, or pain that increases over time beyond 24 hours, call your physician. After any surgery contact your physician if you meet any of the following criteria:

• Pain not controlled with prescribed medication
• Fever > 101
• Nausea and vomiting
• Calf or leg pain
• Shortness of breath
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

What should I pack at home to take with?

Nothing special is required after a colposcopy procedure. A supply of sanitary napkins will help keep your clothing clean.

What information should I provide to my doctors and nurses?

It is very important to provide your doctor with an updated list of all medications, vitamins, and dietary supplements prior to surgery. All medication and food allergies should be reviewed. Share any lab work, radiologic procedures, or other medical tests done by other healthcare providers with your surgeon prior to your procedure.

This is a video presentation of the procedure, explaining how it works.

The post Preparing for: Colposcopy appeared first on Medika Life.

Your bile ducts are tubes that carry bile from your liver to your gallbladder and duodenum. Your pancreatic ducts are tubes that carry pancreatic juice from your pancreas to your duodenum. Small pancreatic ducts empty into the main pancreatic duct. Your common bile duct and main pancreatic duct join before emptying into your duodenum.

Why has your doctor requested this test?

Doctors use ERCP to treat problems of the bile and pancreatic ducts. Doctors also use ERCP to diagnose problems of the bile and pancreatic ducts if they expect to treat problems during the procedure. For diagnosis alone, doctors may use noninvasive tests—tests that do not physically enter the body—instead of ERCP.

Doctors perform ERCP when your bile or pancreatic ducts have become narrowed or blocked because of

• gallstones that form in your gallbladder and become stuck in your common bile duct
• infection
• acute pancreatitis
• chronic pancreatitis
• trauma or surgical complications in your bile or pancreatic ducts
• pancreatic pseudocysts 
• tumors or cancers of the bile ducts 
• tumors or cancers of the pancreas 

What happens during the procedure?

Doctors who have specialized training in ERCP perform this procedure at a hospital or an outpatient center. An intravenous (IV) needle will be placed in your arm to provide a sedative. Sedatives help you stay relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. A health care professional will give you a liquid anesthetic to gargle or will spray anesthetic on the back of your throat. The anesthetic numbs your throat and helps prevent gagging during the procedure. The health care staff will monitor your vital signs and keep you as comfortable as possible. In some cases, you may receive general anesthesia.

You’ll be asked to lie on an examination table. The doctor will carefully feed the endoscope down your esophagus, through your stomach, and into your duodenum. A small camera mounted on the endoscope will send a video image to a monitor. The endoscope pumps air into your stomach and duodenum, making them easier to see.

During ERCP, the doctor

• locates the opening where the bile and pancreatic ducts empty into the duodenum
• slides a thin, flexible tube called a catheter through the endoscope and into the ducts
• injects a special dye, also called contrast medium, into the ducts through the catheter to make the ducts more visible on x-rays
• uses a type of x-ray imaging, called fluoroscopy, to examine the ducts and look for narrowed areas or blockages

The doctor may pass tiny tools through the endoscope to

• open blocked or narrowed ducts.
• break up or remove stones.
• perform a biopsy or remove tumors in the ducts.
• insert stents—tiny tubes that a doctor leaves in narrowed ducts to hold them open. A doctor may also insert temporary stents to stop bile leaks that can occur after gallbladder surgery.

The procedure usually takes between 1 and 2 hours.

What do you need to do?

You should talk with your doctor about any allergies and medical conditions you have and all prescribed and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take, including

• arthritis medicines 
• aspirin or medicines that contain aspirin
• blood thinners 
• blood pressure medicines 
• diabetes medicines
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen

Your doctor may ask you to temporarily stop taking medicines that affect blood clotting or interact with sedatives. You typically receive sedatives during ERCP to help you relax and stay comfortable.

Tell your doctor if you are, or may be, pregnant. If you are pregnant and need ERCP to treat a problem, the doctor performing the procedure may make changes to protect the fetus from x-rays. Research has found that ERCP is generally safe during pregnancy.

Arrange for a ride home

For safety reasons, you can’t drive for 24 hours after ERCP, as the sedatives or anesthesia used during the procedure needs time to wear off. You will need to make plans for getting a ride home after ERCP.

Don’t eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum

To see your upper GI tract clearly, you doctor will most likely ask you not to eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum during the 8 hours before ERCP.

The post Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) appeared first on Medika Life.