System Description; Holders; Iontophoretic Electrodes; Electrode Cable Assembly - Elitech NANODUCT 1030 User Manual

Section 1: Introduction

1.3 System Description

Nanoduct is a complete, integrated system for inducing and analyzing sweat for
cystic fibrosis (CF) diagnosis—all while attached to the patient. This reduces
the possibility of intrinsic error and enables pristine samples to be obtained from
neonates and analyzed in situ.
Nanoduct incorporates the classic method of inducing sweat by pilocarpine
iontophoresis. The pilocarpine is introduced into the skin of the patient using
controlled DC electrical current from the Nanoduct induction/analysis module.
This is followed by continuous-flow analysis using the unique sensor.
Results appear quickly on the display. During the process the operator installs
and then removes the various components that fit in the holders described later.
A description of the various components of the Nanoduct system follows.

Holders

Two plastic holders are attached to the patient with comfortable but secure non-
latex elastic straps. These holders accept the electrodes and later the sensor,
holding them securely against the patient's skin. Holders are color-coded, one
red to accept the (positive) anode and subsequently the red sensor; the other
black to accept the (negative) cathode. Strap retainers are pushed through the
holes in the strap to maintain the correct tension.

Iontophoretic Electrodes

Two color-coded electrodes, one red for the anode (positive) and the other black
for the cathode (negative), are otherwise identical, both having a small stainless-
steel disc as the electrode plate.
These electrodes are part of the electrode cable assembly (see below) that
also includes the sensor cell connector to attach the separate sensor cell. Both
electrodes have projecting flanges, for securing the electrodes in the holder
rings. Electrodes provide current from the module through Pilogel discs during
iontophoresis. The black cathode electrode also serves as an electrical reference
to detect sweat flow to the sensor cell during the analysis phase.

Electrode Cable Assembly

This dual-purpose 1.8 m long cable assembly includes the red anode and black
cathode iontophoretic electrodes and the red sensor cell connector. The cable
connects to the Induction/Analysis Module at the electrode connection socket on
the top of the instrument.
Inspect lead wires periodically for breaks or cracks in the insulation. Replace
the electrode set if any cracks or breaks are apparent in the electrode wires,
insulation or plastic housing.
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