Patent ID: 6451610
Filing Date: 2002-09-17
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A method of performing a coagulation-based assay on a fresh whole blood sample, comprising the steps of:providing a cuvette having at least one substantially non-capillary conduit having a first end and a second end, said at least one conduit having a restriction disposed between said first end and said second end of said conduit; introducing a predetermined volume of said blood sample into said first end of said at least one conduit; providing an anticoagulating agent at a first position in said at least one conduit, wherein said anticoagulating agent is capable of mixing with said blood sample; providing a coagulation agent in a second position in said at least one conduit, a portion of said conduit between said first position and said second position curving in a half-circle formation, wherein said coagulation reagent is capable of mixing with said blood sample; providing a recalcification agent at a third position in said at least one conduit, said third position located between said restriction and said second end of said at least one conduit, wherein said recalcification agent is capable of mixing with said blood sample; moving said blood sample from said first position to said second position, and from said second position to said third position; and measuring the time it takes for said blood sample to clot.