Background: Our objective was to evaluate a powered bone marrow aspiration device for use in diagnosing disease and monitoring disease course and medical therapy.
Patients and methods: The device was used in accordance with practice guidelines and directions for use. Data collection included insertion success, time to insertion and complications. Patient pain levels were rated 0-10 (10 = extreme pain). Device operators rated ease of use of the device 0-10 (10 = outstanding).
Results: There were 55 patients from three centers. Successful insertion and aspiration were achieved in 54 out of 55 patients (98.1%). Mean insertion time was 4.9 +/- 3.0 seconds; significantly faster than that previously reported. There were no complications. The mean insertion pain score was 2.5 +/- 2.2 and the mean aspiration pain score was 3.7 +/- 2.5. The six operators rated the ease of use of the device at a mean score of 8.3 +/- 1.7.
Conclusion: Findings suggest that the powered aspiration device is safe and effective for bone marrow aspirations.