The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an innovative device for blood collection, reports infohub.kz.
The autonomous robot, named Aletta, is designed to automate the process of drawing blood from patients in outpatient settings. The device uses near-infrared light and Doppler ultrasound to accurately locate a vein in the arm.
Once a suitable vein is found, the system independently performs all key steps: it applies a tourniquet, inserts and disposes of the needle, and then applies a bandage to the puncture site. The device requires the presence of a qualified specialist who initiates and monitors the process. One procedure nurse can oversee the operation of three such robots simultaneously.
The approval was based on clinical data confirming the system's high efficacy. In trials, the robot performed blood draws as well as, and sometimes better than, experienced professionals. The agency notes that blood collection is one of the most common procedures, and automation will help address the shortage of medical staff. The timeline for the device's availability in clinics has not yet been announced.