Microvisk (Denbighshire, Wales) won European CE Mark approval for the CoagMax PT/INR blood clotting analyzer that uses a novel micro electro mechanical (MEMS) component at the core of its sensor.

The CoagMax uses disposable strips that have a tiny cantilever built in. By applying an electric current coming from the device, the cantilever is made to flap at a regular rate. As blood is introduced to the cantilever and is allowed to being coagulated, the CoagMax measures the frequency of the cantilever’s flapping. The changing rate indicates the speed at which blood is coagulating, providing a quick and reliable measurement that can be used by to decide whether or not to take blood thinners or other drugs that may affect the blood. Though the device can probably be used professionally by clinicians, it looks like the company is aiming directly at patients that want to keep a close eye on how drugs may be affecting their blood status.

Here’s a video explaining the Microvisk MEMS technology:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bgr4KYNFfQ

source:Microvisk