The use of a simple backflush technology to improve sample throughput and system robustness in routine gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry analysis of doping control samples.

A simple, low cost system for the backflushing of capillary gas chromatography (GC) columns has been investigated and integrated into a method for the detection of anabolic steroids in equine urine. The modification to the method was simple to make and quick to setup and optimize. The use of backflushing technology was found to offer significant benefits in terms of sample throughput and improved system robustness.