Lancet ejector for lancet injector

Abstract

A lancet injector is provided having a lancet tip that may be automatically removed from the lancet injector after piercing and being retracted from the skin of the subject. A separation recess extends from the slot along the housing toward the proximal end of the housing allowing the control member to move proximally into the separation recess. The separation recess has a proximally extending retention recess that retains the lancet holder in its most proximal position. The lancet holder has a bore extending longitudinally through it aligned with the central axis of the housing. A pin extends from the proximal end of the housing along the central axis of the housing toward the central bore of the holder. The control member moves into the separation recess causing the pin to enter the bore of the lancet holder and contact the lancet. The pin stops proximal movement of the lancet during further proximal movement of the control member in the separation recess thereby causing the lancet to be pushed to the edge of frictional contact with the lancet holder. Movement of the control member proximally into the retention recess moves the lancet out of frictional contact with the holder. Thereafter, the distal end of the housing is directed downward causing the lancet to fall into an appropriate sharps container.