DESIGN NAME: Self Smear Test Kit
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Self Smear Test Kit
INSPIRATION: -
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Smear test is a special screening test to control the cervix for both infections and cancer/pre-cancer situations. Early detection of cervical cancer and pre-cancerous lesions are the aims of this test. As in all cancers, cervical cancer occurs after a long time hidden-disease period. Thus, early diagnosis is quite important for the cure of this cancer and smear test is acknowledged as the most significant test for early diagnosis of this cancer.
Two types of test techniques are available and used. First one is the conventional technique in which doctors examines the outer opening of cervix of the uterus and obtains a sample by using brush. Later, the sample is sent to laboratory inside lamellas. Second technique is a liquid-based one. After gynecological examination, again a sample is acquired by using brush, later which is put in a special liquid.
Based upon definitions of these techniques, it can be stated that it is required to have a doctor or a specialist to make smear test that is acquiring tissue from the opening of uterus, without damaging the tissue in vaginal area.
Self Smear Test Kit is designed in order for women to have smear test themselves. With the help of this product, it is possible to obtain tissue from the opening of uterus without damaging the tissues in vaginal area.
The product is used manually. Design consists of three main parts: Handle and the mechanism that is prompted by handle, body and cap. Assigned parts on the body are pushed to open the three-panels that is placed in the front end, enclosing the brush. With this movement, vajina is also opened. Handle in the back and the part attached to handle are connected to the brush and the piece that the brush is attached. By pushing the handle, protector panels enclosing the soft brush are opened, therefore the soft brush which stays in closed position for hygienic concerns comes out. Handle can be turned around its axis, allowing the body to turn, thus enabling the soft brush to turn. Operated as explained, this movement is used to acquire tissue from opening of uterus. After the sample is obtained, handle is pulled backwards, making the protector panels close.
Having an annual screening routine with smear test is recomended, frequency varying according to age and various factors. Therefore, cap is designed as changeable, thus usage more than once is made possible. Unused, hygienic cap can be attached to body and activated. Six caps are provided alongside the main equipment. Acquired sample is smeared on the particular plastic container that is included in the equipment set. After closing the lid of container, the sample is ready for test.
Cervix cancer is the main figure in the cancer-related deaths of women in developing countries. Smear test has an important role in early diagnosing thus preventing cervix cancer. However, researches stated that standard of knowledge and sanctions in underdeveloped societies on smear test is detected as very low. It is foreseen that usage of smear test will be spread with the help of this product that allows self application without causing damage. As well as being hygienic, self smear test kit is also practical and inexpensive. Product is expected to create added value in the market with its special features.
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FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY: Medical Devices and Medical Equipment Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: -
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ADDED DATE: 2012-02-28 11:56:13
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS: Hakan Gürsu, 2011.
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