A simplified method to produce micropipettes with flat tips

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Weiss, Thomas | Ruef, Peter | Linderkamp, Otwin

Affiliations: Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 150, D-6900 Heidelberg, Germany

Abstract: Micropipettes with internal diameters of 1 to 5 μm are frequently used for manipulation of erythrocytes and leukocytes. A modified method for the production of narrow micropipettes with flat tips is described. A stainless steel rod with a cylindrical bore hole is filled with low-melting point solder glass, which is rapidly melted by a high electrical current. The tip of a micropipette of desired diameter is moved into the softened glass, the electrical current is interrupted and the glass is chilled. When the pipette is removed it usually breaks off with a flat tip.

Keywords: Erythrocytes, hemorheology, leukocytes, micropipette

DOI: 10.3233/CH-1991-11515

Journal: Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation, vol. 11, no. 5, pp. 383-386, 1991