Workflow improvement and financial gain after integration of high-throughput sample processing system with flow cytometer in a high-volume pathology laboratory: Results from a prospective comparative study using Lean principles
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background
Highly efficient clinical laboratories are essential for monitoring many human illnesses. Ampath Laboratory Services, the largest pathology lab in South Africa, analyzes large numbers of peripheral blood samples for CD4 levels yearly.
Objective
To assess productivity and quality of a newer integrated automated solution, the BD FACSDuet™ Sample Preparation System/BD FACSLyric™ Flow Cytometer using conventional assessment methods and Lean concepts.
Materials and methods
This prospective study compared the performance of the BD FACS™ Sample Preparation Assistant [SPA] III and BD FACSCanto™ II Flow Cytometer with the newly introduced integrated system (BD FACSDuet™/BD FACSLyric™). They were validated for accuracy, precision, and external quality assessment. Process mapping and Lean assessment helped identify steps leading to waste. An economic model was developed to characterize workflow and economic impact associated with total daily hands-on time, processing time, and reworks.
Results
Strong linear correlation was present between both systems. Precision and accuracy studies revealed that all coefficient of variation (CV)% values were below 20% of allowable limits. External proficiency assessments were within limits. The fully automated workflow of BD FACSDuet™/BD FACSLyric™ permitted better consistency with significantly shorter processing time and batch processing and reduced operator interventions. Lean assessment identified defects with motion, over-processing, waiting, and non-utilized talent. Significant reductions in hands-on and total daily processing time that could increase daily specimen testing efficiency and fewer reworks were associated with the BD FACSDuet™/BD FACSLyric™. Lean improvements translated to significant economic savings associated with operator costs and unnecessary reagent consumption.
Conclusion
BD FACSDuet™/BD FACSLyric™ is an accurate, reliable, and cost-effective fully automated system for high-volume flow cytometry labs that perform T-cell enumeration using a single-platform and single-tube approach.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Immunological Methods is devoted to covering techniques for: (1) Quantitating and detecting antibodies and/or antigens. (2) Purifying immunoglobulins, lymphokines and other molecules of the immune system. (3) Isolating antigens and other substances important in immunological processes. (4) Labelling antigens and antibodies. (5) Localizing antigens and/or antibodies in tissues and cells. (6) Detecting, and fractionating immunocompetent cells. (7) Assaying for cellular immunity. (8) Documenting cell-cell interactions. (9) Initiating immunity and unresponsiveness. (10) Transplanting tissues. (11) Studying items closely related to immunity such as complement, reticuloendothelial system and others. (12) Molecular techniques for studying immune cells and their receptors. (13) Imaging of the immune system. (14) Methods for production or their fragments in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
In addition the journal will publish articles on novel methods for analysing the organization, structure and expression of genes for immunologically important molecules such as immunoglobulins, T cell receptors and accessory molecules involved in antigen recognition, processing and presentation. Submitted full length manuscripts should describe new methods of broad applicability to immunology and not simply the application of an established method to a particular substance - although papers describing such applications may be considered for publication as a short Technical Note. Review articles will also be published by the Journal of Immunological Methods. In general these manuscripts are by solicitation however anyone interested in submitting a review can contact the Reviews Editor and provide an outline of the proposed review.