Exploring Alternatives to Sst Tubes in Clinical Diagnostic Labs
Serum Separator Tube (SST) is a commonly used blood collection tube in clinical Diagnostic Labs for the separation of serum from whole blood. However, there are some limitations and challenges associated with the use of SST tubes. In this article, we will explore some alternatives to SST tubes that are being used in clinical Diagnostic Labs.
Challenges with SST tubes
While SST tubes have been widely used in clinical Diagnostic Labs for many years, there are some challenges and limitations associated with their use. Some of the common challenges with SST tubes include:
Variability in serum separation
Need for centrifugation
Risk of hemolysis
Cost
Alternative blood collection tubes
Several alternative blood collection tubes are being used in clinical Diagnostic Labs as an alternative to SST tubes. Some of the alternatives to SST tubes include:
EDTA tubes
EDTA tubes are commonly used for the collection of whole blood and are used for various Diagnostic Tests such as complete blood count (CBC). EDTA tubes contain the Anticoagulant ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), which prevents blood clotting by chelating calcium ions. EDTA tubes are a good alternative to SST tubes for tests that require whole blood samples.
Heparin tubes
Heparin tubes contain the Anticoagulant Heparin, which prevents blood clotting by inhibiting thrombin. Heparin tubes are often used for tests that require plasma samples, such as coagulation tests. Heparin tubes are a good alternative to SST tubes for tests that require plasma samples.
Citrate tubes
Citrate tubes contain the Anticoagulant Sodium Citrate, which prevents blood clotting by binding to calcium ions. Citrate tubes are commonly used for coagulation tests, such as Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT). Citrate tubes are a good alternative to SST tubes for coagulation tests.
Plain tubes
Plain tubes do not contain any additives or anticoagulants and are used for the collection of serum samples. Plain tubes are a good alternative to SST tubes for tests that require serum samples, such as chemistry tests. Plain tubes are often used in combination with gel separation technology for serum separation.
Gel separation technology
Gel separation technology is a method used for the separation of serum or plasma from whole blood in blood collection tubes. Gel separation tubes contain a gel barrier that forms a physical barrier between the serum or plasma and blood cells after centrifugation. This technology allows for the easy and accurate separation of serum or plasma from whole blood without the need for manual pipetting or decanting.
Conclusion
While SST tubes have been widely used in clinical Diagnostic Labs for many years, there are some limitations and challenges associated with their use. However, there are several alternative blood collection tubes and technologies that can be used as alternatives to SST tubes. EDTA tubes, Heparin tubes, citrate tubes, plain tubes, and gel separation technology are some of the alternatives to SST tubes that are being used in clinical Diagnostic Labs.
It is important for clinical Diagnostic Labs to consider the specific requirements of each test and choose the appropriate blood collection tube or technology that will provide accurate and reliable results. By exploring and utilizing alternative blood collection tubes and technologies, clinical Diagnostic Labs can overcome the challenges associated with the use of SST tubes and improve the efficiency and accuracy of their diagnostic testing processes.
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