High throughput coagulation analyzers review

The increasing no. of ordered coagulation screening tests has led to a remarkable improvement in the efficiency of automated coagulation testing, and appearance of a new generation of high throughput analyzers ensuring accuracy and precision, and reducing the strain and human error. The earliest analyzers operated mechanically, using the hook to detect the clot in the cuvette are now replaced with more sophisticated analyzer that simultaneously uses the clotting, chromogenic, and immunological principles, to provide a versatile test menu covering antigenic and functional aspects of coagulation. The armamentarium of coagulation testing is complimented with tools like; automated platelet function analyzer, flowcytometer, and molecular techniques including the polymerase chain reaction, and lately the microarrary (biochip) technology. This review addresses the principle of operation and distinctive features of various automated high throughput coagulation analyzers, their impact on improving efficiency, eliminating preanalytical and postanalytical handling thus maximizing productivity and return on investment.