DESCRIPTION

Through Hologic's computerized process and patented membrane technology, the ThinPrep 2000 processor controls dispersion, collection and transfer of diagnostic cells from sample to slide. This ensures that the slide is representative of — and reproducible of — the original sample collected in the ThinPrep Pap test vial.            Under the precise control of the ThinPrep 2000 microprocessor, a gentle dispersion step breaks up blood, mucus and non-diagnostic debris, then thoroughly mixes the sample. With a series of negative pressure pulses, fluid is drawn though the ThinPrep 2000 filter to collect a thin, even layer of diagnostic cellular material. The ThinPrep 2000 processor constantly monitors the rate of flow through the filter during this process, collecting an appropriate amount of material for testing.            The cellular material is transferred to a glass slide using computer-controlled mechanical positioning and positive air pressure. The slide is then ejected into a cell fixative bath, ready for staining and evaluation.