Device for the improved collection of cord blood from an umbilical cord

A method for collecting cord blood, comprising the steps of:

• providing a collection device comprising a proximal end and a distal end with a shaft extending therebetween, a conical shaped head at the distal end of the shaft, wherein the conical shaped head is tapered, increasing in diameter toward the proximal end, a first opening at the distal end of the conical shaped head having a first diameter, a second opening at the proximal end of the shaft having a second diameter, an inner volume extending from the first opening and through the shaft to the second opening, wherein the shaft is tapered toward the proximal end such that the second diameter is smaller than the first diameter;
• clamping an umbilical cord with a clamp;
• cutting the umbilical cord at least 0.5 inches from the clamp, creating a cut end of the umbilical cord;
• sterilizing the cut end of the umbilical cord with an antiseptic;
• inserting the conical shaped head into an umbilical vein up to the clamp;
• releasing the clamp;
• inserting the collection device into the umbilical vein beyond the clamp;
• and
• securing the collection device inside the umbilical vein.