Microbiology laboratory solutions provider Copan Diagnostics has received clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for UriSponge, an advanced urine collection and transport device.
UriSponge uses a new advanced preservative formulation to ensure specimen stability for culture.
According to Copan Diagnostics, this user-friendly and reliable solution offers clinical laboratories and healthcare providers a cost-effective way to enhance urine specimen collection, preservation, and transport.
UriSponge simplifies urine transfer from a sterile container to the tube using a quick dip-and-close method, reducing steps and improving workflow.
The system comprises a screw-cap tube, a plastic applicator, and sponges loaded with preservatives. These preservatives maintain sample stability during transport, ensuring reliable results and minimising the risk of contamination or degradation.
Copan Diagnostics, part of Copan Group, said that the device’s design ensures accurate sample preservation without needing precise fill lines or additional mixing, thus reducing complexity and the use of extra consumables.
With advanced preservatives, UriSponge guarantees specimen integrity and offers a more efficient alternative to traditional handling methods.
Copan Diagnostics CEO Fabrizio Mazzochi said: “Copan is dedicated to advancing laboratory practices through groundbreaking innovation.
“UriSponge provides a reliable and efficient solution that supports laboratory needs while offering healthcare providers a safe, streamlined process.”
Additionally, UriSponge is designed to integrate with laboratory automation systems such as Copan Diagnostics’ WASP Walk-Away Specimen Processor. This integration automates key microbiology specimen processing tasks such as planting and streaking.
UriSponge and Copan Diagnostics’ full automation solution streamlines specimen handling from collection to analysis, boosting laboratory productivity and consistency.
The urine collection and transport device is already available globally and is expected to be accessible via US distribution partners in early 2025.
Copan Diagnostics offers a range of collection and transport systems. It has products like FLOQSwabs, ESwab, UTM Universal Transport Medium, and Full Laboratory Automation for different laboratory processes.
In January this year, the microbiology laboratory solutions provider secured its third FDA clearance for Colibrí, an automated ID/AST preparation instrument.
In a similar development, in September, PreAnalytiX, a joint venture between QIAGEN and BD, introduced the PAXgene Urine Liquid Biopsy Set.
