Automation as a Success Factor: The new sample reception area at MLL MVZ
September 25, 2025
For years, the MLL MVZ has set the standard
for sample reception and pre-analysis, but the increasing number of samples
requires continuous process optimization. To meet these requirements, a concept
that goes far beyond standard solutions was necessary. Whole blood and bone
marrow samples present unique challenges in terms of homogenization,
aliquoting, and archiving. Furthermore, the wide variety of tube types quickly
pushes conventional automation systems to their limits.
A custom-made solution
In collaboration with Roche, Hamilton, and
Sysmex, a customized automation system for hematological diagnostics was
developed. At the core of this system is the Microlab STAR M liquid handling
system from Hamilton, which connects directly to Roche's sample line via a UCM2
module.
The Microlab STAR M system uses patented
CO-RE II technology, liquid level detection and anti-droplet control. These
features enable precise and reliable removal of defined, homogenised aliquots
from a wide variety of sample tubes and transfer to the Sysmex XN-1500 module
for automated cell counting and further analysis.
The new workflow at a glance:
- Registration and distribution of samples via the Roche sample line
- Automated homogenization of samples using the Microlab STAR M.
- Precise aliquoting and transfer to the Sysmex XN-1500 module for cell counting
- Automated blood smear preparation and staining via Sysmex automation
- AI-supported microscopy in the SP-50 module from Sysmex
- Diagnosis by an expert team of physicians, scientists, and medical technicians
- Additional aliquoting for immunophenotyping; primary tubes remain available on the sample line for further processing
- Automated archiving of residual material with direct integration into reorder management
Installation, testing, and validation
Over the past few months, the new facility has
been installed in the converted sample reception area of the MLL MVZ in
collaboration with the IT department and partner companies and was put into
operation. After that, our employees carried out a comprehensive testing and
validation phase.
The result:
In 2025, the MLL MVZ boasts a
state-of-the-art, automated sample reception and preanalytical system that is
reliable, efficient, and produces consistently high-quality results.
The author
»Do you have questions about the article? Please feel free to send me an e-mail.«
PD Dr. med. Gregor Hörmann, PhD
Laboratory Medicine
Head of business unit Diagnostic Phenotype
Deputy Head of Sample Receipt
gregor.hoermann@mll.com