Securebox: a multibiopsy sample container for specimen identification and transport.
OBJECTIVE
To describe an original multicompartment disposable container for tissue surgical specimens or serial biopsy samples (Securebox).


METHODS
The increasing number of pathology samples from a single patient required for an accurate diagnosis led us to design and manufacture a unique container with 4 boxes; in each box 1 or more biopsy samples can be lodged. A magnification lens on a convex segment of the plastic framework allows inspection of macroscopic details of the recovered specimens. We investigated 400 randomly selected cases (compared with 400 controls) who underwent multiple biopsies from January 2006 to January 2007 to evaluate compliance with the new procedure and detect errors resulting from missing some of the multiple specimens or to technical mistakes during the procedure or delivery that might have compromised the final diagnosis.


RESULTS
Using our Securebox, the percentage of oatients whose diagnosis failed or could not be reached was O.5% compared to 4% with the traditional method (p = 0.0012). Moreover, the percentage of medical and nursing staff who were satisfied with the Securebox compared to the traditional methodwas 85% vs. 15%, respectively (p < 0.0001). The average number of days spent bto reach a proper diagnosis based on the usage of the Securebox was 3.38 +/- 1.16 SD compared to 6.76 +/- 0.52 SD with the traditional method (p < 0.0001).


CONCLUSIONS
The compact Securebox makes it safer and easier to introduce the specimens and to ship them to the pathology laboratories, reducing the risk of error.
Palmieri
Beniamino
B
Department of General Surgery and Surgical Specialties, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Medical School, Surgical Clinic, Modena, Italy. palmieri@unimo.it
Sblendorio
Valeriana
V
Saleh
Farid
F
Al-Sebeih
Khalid
K
D001706:Biopsy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D004209:Disposable Equipment; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019300:Medical Errors; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D010355:Patient Identification Systems / Q000592:standards*; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*