operating theatre journal · why a food allergy could put the skids under your career...

ISSN 0963-7974 June/July 2004 Issue No. 165

The

Operating Theatre Journal

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If you are allergic to bananas you may be at increased risk of

developing latex allergy.1 The same is true if you suffer from asthma,

atopy or hay fever.2,3

However, once a latex allergy has been established, healthcare

workers will either have to be moved to a latex-free environment or,

in extreme circumstances, give up their occupation altogether.

So, if there is the possibility of a latex allergy, or you cannot be sure,

work safe by wearing latex-free gloves such as Biogel Skinsense PI.

Biogel Skinsense PI is the new powder-free, synthetic polyisoprene

surgical glove made from a new generation of synthetic material that

best replicates the fit, feel and comfort of NRL gloves.

This makes Biogel Skinsense PI the ideal choice when there are

concerns about sensitivity to NRL proteins in a patient or healthcare

professional, or a synthetic glove is preferred.

Why a food allergy could putthe skids under your career

Biogel®SkinsenseTMPISetting the standard in protection.

www.regentmedical.comRegent Medical, Canute Court, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 0NL. Tel: 01565 625174. Fax: 01565 625197.

Regent, Biogel, Skinsense, the Regent logo and the hands device are Trade Marks of the SSL group.

1 Natural rubber latex contains 14 allergens, four of which are found in 25 different fruits that are known to cause allergies. Wagner S, Breiteneder H, The Latex-fruit Syndrome. Biochem Soc Trans (2001) 30, (935-940)2 Trujanmaa K, Reunala T. Healthcare workers: a risk group for latex allergy. In: Program and proceedings of the international latex conference: Sensitivity to latex in medical devices. 19, 1992.3 Food and Drug Administration. Allergic reactions to latex-containing medical devices. Medical Alert. March 29, 1991.

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The NHS Counter Fraud and Security Management Service have applied the fi rst Anti Social Behavior Order (ASBO) to cover every part of the NHS, to protect staff and professionals from violence and abuse. The order, against Norman Hutchins, is unique in being the fi rst ASBO to cover every hospital, GP surgery and any health establishment across England and Wales.

The NHS Security Management Service, with York City Council and North Yorkshire Police, worked in close partnership to bring the order against 53-year-old Hutchins. The interim order will prevent Mr. Hutchins from entering any medical centres, including hospitals, dentists, walk-in centres, GPs or emergency doctors in England and Wales unless under strictly controlled conditions and with prior permission.

York Magistrates granted the interim order, which also prevents Mr. Hutchins from contacting establishments in order to obtain medical masks, gowns or medical related clothing. (2nd June).

In 47 incidents over the last fi ve months, Hutchins, a resident of York, had caused harassment, alarm and distress to NHS staff when attempting to obtain gowns and surgical masks in person or on the phone. He has also been violently aggressive, has assaulted staff and has carried a knife.

Jim Gee, Chief Executive of the NHS Security Management Service said: “This is a case where there have been 47 incidents since January where the Defendant has caused alarm, harassment and distress to NHS staff. More than 30 NHS organisations have tried to respond locally to this problem by obtaining civil injunctions concerning their own premises, however, the Defendant has simply moved on to another part of the NHS. That is why the NHS Security Management Service has coordinated action to obtain the NHS’s fi rst ever national Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO). In cases like this one, the NHS needs a national response if we are to properly protect staff from violence and abuse.”

Bill Darling, Chair of the NHS SMS said: “It is very sad that this sort of action is necessary, but with the right to free healthcare from the NHS, there also comes responsibilities. The vast majority of patients and members of the public want to protect the NHS and its ability to provide patient care. Unfortunately, there is a minority who do not respect the NHS or the dedicated staff who work for it. It’s very simple really, we need to protect the NHS so that it can protect the public’s health.”

NHS Security Management Service fi rst for NHS-wide ASBO

4 THE OPERATNG THEATRE JOURNAL www.otjonline.com

Fukuda Denshi is a leading supplier of advanced patient monitoring, cardiac assessment and clinical information systems. Following the launch of the company’s new portable Colour Doppler Ultrasound System, the UF-750XT, the Lister Hospital, Stevenage, has purchased two machines.

The Lister Hospital has, for some years, been an enthusiastic and signifi cant user of Fukuda Denshi equipment. They have particularly appreciated the product quality, its reliability, value for money and after sales support from the fi eld technical team. 98 patient monitors and 3 central Station monitors are currently in use at the hospital. When it became known that Fukuda Denshi were offering a competitive Doppler System, the decision to buy from the company was made. It was the quality of service that ‘won’ the day for Fukuda Denshi. The two UF-750XT Systems were supplied by the company’s distributor, K-Med of Hounslow and London, since they are the organisation which has the framework agreement on ultrasound with the NHS.

One of the new UF-750XT machines is in use in the renal unit for kidney imaging. The other is stationed in the ICU, where it is used for ultrasound guidance of cannulae. The UF-750XT is also used in the cardiology department, and early reports indicate a high level of satisfaction from all users.

With its comprehensive, advanced specifi cation, superb digital image quality and competitive price, the FFsonic UF-750XT system from Fukuda Denshi, is becoming well established in UK hospitals. The software-based signal processing enables highly-sensitive examinations, while the compact, portable and aesthetically ergonomic UF-750XT exhibits a system performance typical of high-end competition. It is equipped with Color, PulseWave and Power Doppler modes. It comes standard with an MO drive for digital data storage and now has a 3D measurement capability with a variety of 3D imaging modes.

For more information on the Fukuda Denshi UF-750XT ultrasound system, or for a demonstration, please telephone the company on:01483 728065. Fukuda Denshi: The new generation.

Quality of service results in Lister Hospital purchasing new Fukuda Denshi

Ultrasound System

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Bill Callaghan, Chair of the Health and Safety Commission (HSC), recently launched an innovative three-month consultation campaign asking managers and employers for their views on proposals to reduce work-related stress. A video explanation of the proposals isavailable via HSE’s website and feedback can be delivered online.

The proposals are based around a set of Management Standards that will enable employers to gauge stress levels, identify causes and work with employees to resolve any diffi culties. The Standards are clear and practical statements of good management practice and are supported by a body of research and by an ongoing dialogue with arange of businesses, professional bodies and unions.

The Management Standards are not new regulations: they are a non-legislative yardstick to help organisations meet their existing duty of care and their duty to assess the risks to work-related stress. The Standards highlight the components of good organisation,job design and management that keep stress levels in check and enhance productivity.

Work-related stress has overtaken musculoskeletal disorders as the biggest cause of working days lost through injury or ill-health. It accounts for over 13 million days lost in UK industry a year, and costs society as a whole about £3.7 billion a year. In 2001/2, over half a million individuals in Britain experienced stress at levels that made them ill, as reported by the most recent Labour Force Survey.

Bill Callaghan, said: “The HSC has recognised the need for action and designated stress as one of our priorities. We’re not about eliminating all stress or pressure in the workplace. Rather we want to help employers recognise and manage the risks sensibly. The good news is that the core of any solution lies in good management, and in employers working together with staff and their representatives to develop solutions that work in practice.”

Head of HSE’s Better Working Environment Division, Elizabeth Gyngell said: “Work-related stress is not the reasonable pressure which is part and parcel of all work and which helps to keep us motivated. It is the kind of excessive pressure that undermines performance, is costly to employers and can make people ill.

We are working hard to help tackle issue through good job design and people management. HSE cannot do this alone. We need employers, employees, and their representatives to visit our website and participate in this consultation.”

www.hse.gov.uk/stress

‘EQUIPPING’ TO PREVENT STRESS

Even more health professionals will be able to prescribe medicinesunder new plans announced on the 10th May 2004 by Health Secretary, John Reid.

The proposals recommend that physiotherapists, radiographers,chiropodists and optometrists should be able to prescribe medicines,in partnership with a doctor, to help treat and manage conditionssuch as glaucoma, chronic back pain and the effects of multiplesclerosis, as well as providing pain relief for patients attendingradiography sessions.

The proposals are part of a wider push to expand the roles andresponsibilities of staff so that patients receive better care,faster. By extending the power to prescribe to more healthprofessionals, patients will be able to get the medicines they needmore easily.

Over 1400 nurses have already qualifi ed and registered as nursesupplementary prescribers. The fi rst pharmacist supplementaryprescribers qualifi ed in February 2004, and around 100 pharmacistsare registered as supplementary prescribers.

John Reid said: ”Our proposals will enable more health professionals,working in partnership with doctors, to help patients get the rightmedicine more easily than ever before. This is part of our commitmentto extend the responsibilities and roles of all NHS staff. By enabling all NHS staff to be all that they can be, NHS patients will be able to get the full benefi t of the NHS’ highly skilled workforce”.

The consultation will last for 12 weeks. Copies of the consultationdocument are available at www.mhra.gov.uk

MORE HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO BE GIVEN POWER TO PRESCRIBE

“

”

PRESSUREIN THE OPERATING THEATRE

REDUCING

I had an operation on my gall bladder. Itold the staff that I was prone to gettingpressure sores.They assured me I wouldnot get any while in their care. Low andbehold when I came around from theanaesthetic, they found a beauty...it isnow six and a half years old.quote from a patient who developed a pressure ulcer during surgery.

surgery and found that the incidence of pressure ulcersdeclined dramatically with its use. Incidence in the pre-intervention group was 21% (4 out of 19), while no pressure ulcers were formed in the post-interventiongroup with consistent use of the RIK pad (0 out of 20)3.

The RIK® Fluid Operating Table Pad has been designed to last, with a universal five-piece design and modular component repair parts.The surface can be wiped downfor easy disinfection and is stain-resistant, fluid impermeable,anti-static and anti-bacterial.

A survey of the number of pressure ulcers acquired inthe operating theatre found a mean prevalence of 8.1%(Arnovitch, 1988).1 Vascular patients are at particular riskwith a mean prevalence rate of 17.3% (Allman et al, 1999).2

In 1997 Chalian et al conducted a clinical trial of the RIK® Fluid Operating Table Pad for head and neck

References1. Arnovitch, SA (1998) Intraoperatively acquired pressure ulcer prevalence. A national

survey. Advances in Wound Care, suppl.8-9.2. Allman, RM, Goode, PS, Burst, N et al (1999) Pressure ulcers, hospital complications

and disease severity: impact on hospital costs and length of stay. Advances in WoundCare, 12 (22-30).

3. Chalian AA, Kagan SS (2001) Backside first in head and neck surgery? Preventing pressure ulcers in extended length surgeries. Head and Neck, John Wiley and Sons.

designed to laststain-resistant

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The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust has recently taken delivery of a large number of hand-carried ultrasound systems from leading manufacturer, SonoSite Inc. The new systems, comprised of three TITAN’s - SonoSite’s revolutionary hand-carried multi-purpose ultrasound system - and 24 iLook 25’s specifi cally designed to aid vascular access, will enable multiple hospital sites in the region to reap the benefi ts of using ultrasound throughout all clinical departments.

With 15,000 staff employed across eight sites that treat a total of 125,000 inpatients, 65,000 day cases and 700,000 outpatients each year; the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is one of the largest in the UK, providing acute services for the population of Leeds and is a regional centre for the treatment of diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Dr Andrew Bodenham, Consultant Anaesthetist at Leeds General Infi rmary, commented, “We decided to purchase the SonoSite iLook 25’s after NICE announced new guidelines, recommending that ultrasound is used for CVC placement. We developed a business case highlighting the benefi ts that hand-held ultrasound could offer in helping us to achieve greater clinical effectiveness throughout the Trust. We also decided to buy three higher specifi cation TITAN’s to use in ICU, where they will be used to guide interventions like vascular access, pleural drainage and basic cardiac imaging

TITAN offers dramatic increases in image quality on a larger digital high-resolution LCD. It has a number of advanced features normally associated with a cart-based system, including a Mobile Docking System (MDS) that provides convenience and stability –but with added go-anywhere portability, and provides additional fl exibility to provide clinical assessments at the bedside.

For more information please contact: Gillian Duffy SonoSite Telephone: 01462 444800

SonoSite, Inc. (www.sonosite.com), headquartered in Bothell, Wash., is the innovator and worldwide market leader in high-performance, hand-carried ultrasound technology. By creating modular, mobile systems that meet customer needs, SonoSite is removing barriers to the use of ultrasound across medicine and positively impacting the cost-effectiveness and effi ciency of ultrasound use. With more than 14,000 units sold worldwide since 1999, SonoSite’s products have become known for exceptional durability with a high design value.

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Mass installation of SonoSite’s TITAN and iLook Hand-carried Ultrasound systems takes place at the

Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

Dr Andrew Bodenham, Consultant Anaesthetist at Leeds General Infi rmary uses the Trusts’ newly acquired TITAN - the latest hand carried ultrasound system

from SonoSite to facilitate Hickman line placement under local anaesthesia.

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THEATRE

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Corin, the Cirencester based manufacturer of orthopaedic prostheses, has successfully collaborated with CAS Innovations, a company which originated from the University of Erlangen in Germany, to develop an exciting new technology to assist in hip replacement for the young, active arthritic patient.

Corin’s proprietary Cormet Hip Resurfacing device has been successfully implanted using computer navigation techniques for the fi rst time in Guben, Germany. The historic operation was recently carried out by Dr Hennecke, head of the Orthopaedic Department at the Naemi Wilke hospital in Guben.

The computer ‘navigates’ the surgeon through the procedure, giving exceptional accuracy in the preparation and placement of the implants. It shows the precise position of the surgical instruments being used in relation to the patient’s anatomy, even if this area cannot be viewed directly by the surgeon. The surgical navigation system called CAPPA (Computer Assisted Planning and Positioning Applications) is the fi rst navigation system ever used for hip resurfacing implants. It allows reproducible accuracy, time after time and will, it is believed, produce better long-term outcomes for patients.

Although Corin Hip Resurfacing implants have been in clinical use since 1991, computer navigation for this procedure has only been developed recently in a collaborative venture between Corin subsidiary Alphanorm and CAS Innovations, based in Erlangen, Germany. “This is an historic operation, since it extends the application of navigated surgery into an important new area of orthopaedics,” comments Dr Ralf Petzold of CAS. “This product is of special importance to CAS in extending our activities in international markets with Corin and Alphanorm.”

Ian Paling, CEO of Corin Group PLC, is also enthusiastic about this development: “We are naturally very pleased about the successful completion of the fi rst navigated hip resurfacing by Dr Hennecke. This technology is ideally suited to hip resurfacing where centralisation of the head on the femoral neck is paramount.”

“The fi rst navigated Cormet operation was extremely successful,” comments Dr Hennecke. “I believe this shows that, with the aid of pre-operative CT planning and navigation, the accuracy of the operation can be optimised, with the surgeon keeping complete control over intra-operative decisions.”

Hip Resurfacing is primarily intended for younger, active patients, who can benefi t from the likely longevity of the device. It also offers improved stability, which may allow greater levels of post-operative activity than are normally achieved with conventional hip replacement.

For further information, please contact: Iain Dunbar, Marketing Manager, Corin Group – 01285 659 866

WORLD’S FIRST COMPUTER-NAVIGATED CORMET HIP RESURFACING OPERATION


Regent Medical, the world’s leading supplier of surgical gloves has launched an impressive new advertising campaign to promote its Biogel Indicator™ Underglove and to highlight the very signifi cant benefi ts of double gloving in theatre.

A two stage campaign, the engagement adverts appeared in the trade press during March. This stage used thought provoking quotes from the recent Cochrane Review to enlist reader’s attention.

Currently visible on the pages of the medical press, the second stage of the campaign uses dramatic visuals of perceived deadly animals such as sharks and crocodiles with the strapline, ‘Don’t Operate in the Dark, Expose the Risk’.

Commenting on the print campaign, Sharon King, sales and marketing director at Regent said: “It was our aim to highlight the real danger that surgeons are exposed to on a daily basis through glove punctures and blood borne infections, and to communicate the value and huge benefi ts of using Regent’s Biogel® Indicator™ Underglove/ Reveal system to them.”

Regent recommends that its Biogel® Indicator™ Underglove is used with a close fi tting Biogel Overglove. This combination clearly indicates when a glove puncture occurs in the presence of fl uid. This makes it an ideal choice to enhance the benefi ts of double gloving, and the proven way of helping safeguard both surgeons and patients.

Boasting excellent fi t, feel and comfort qualities, Regent’s Indicator™ Underglove received excellent reviews when it was trialled at a number of hospitals around the country last year. The powder free Indicator™ glove is designed to work with the standard Biogel surgical glove, Biogel M or Biogel Super-Sensitive.

New Biogel Indicator™ Underglove will soon be incorporated into Biogel Reveal, the only patented, ready-to-wear, puncture indication system, in a complete range of sizes. This off-the-shelf double-gloving system consists of a green Biogel Indicator™ Underglove and a standard Biogel outer glove.

For further information please contact your Regent sales representative or alternatively call Regent Medical on 01565 625174.

REGENT LAUNCHES DRAMATIC NEW ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE DOUBLE GLOVING

SEE THE DANGERWHENEVER IT APPEARS

References 1. Germaine RL. St. Am. J. Surg. 2003; 185: 141-45. 2. Maffuli N. et al, J. Hand Surg. 1991; 1, 6A: 1034. 3. Wigmore SJ, Rainey JB. BJS 1994; 81:1480.Regent, Canute Court, Toft Road, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 0NL, United Kingdom. A member of SSL International plc. Tel: 01565 625174Fax: 01565 625055 www.regentmedical.com e-mail: [email protected] Biogel, Indicator and Regent logo are trade marks of the SSL group.

Many surgeons are unaware of the threat to which glove

punctures expose their career.1

Unaware that everything they’ve worked so hard to

achieve is easy prey for the blood borne viruses that move

silently through breached defences.

The fact is that up to 88% of glove punctures go

completely unnoticed.2 But surgeons using Biogel

Indicator Underglove/Reveal were not just aware, they

were visibly aware of such punctures in 97% of instances.3

So which kind of glove would you put your trust in?

One that doesn’t let you see when you’re at risk, or one

that does.

Setting the standard in protection.

REGENT

REGENT


Lawrand Ltd,

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Telephone:

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Gambro Hospal Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Gambro AB, supports clinicians by giving choices to help them decide what treatment is most appropriate for their renal patients. Best practice guidelines can support decisions that improve the survival and quality of life of patients. Gambro Hospal’s Quality Steps in Dialysis Therapies illustrate how to achieve optimal outcomes and more.

There are broadly three scenarios to consider, the fi rst being best practice in Low-Flux dialysis. For effi cient use of treatment time, the Polyfl ux® L dialyser promotes consistent and reliable delivery of the prescribed Kt/V or any other small solute marker of dialysis dose. Polyfl ux L also assures a low activation of complement and leukocytes.

Ultrapure water and dialysis fl uid are recommended for all dialysis modalities to minimise infl ammation. The Gambro Hygienic Chain achieves this via CWP water treatment systems which hot water fl ush the entire distribution loop. These systems are complemented by the BiCart® dry bicarbonate concentrate, the CleanCart concept of disinfection and the U8000S ultrafi lter.

The second scenario is best practice High-Flux dialysis. The unique synthetic 3-polymer membrane of the Polyfl ux H dialyser meets the diffusive demands of the EBPG demands perfectly. The high permeability allows for the removal of large uremic solutes including β2-microglobulin. Complement activation is minimised and the membrane’s adsorptive properties protect against endotoxin transfer.

The asymmetric 3-layer structure of Polyfl ux H makes it ideal for convective therapies. It provides conditions for high fi ltration fl ows and has the important characteristic of retaining albumin.

The third scenario is the use of ULTRA therapies to effect greater convective waste product removal. On-line HDF gives the best overall treatment outcome of all forms of dialysis. It results in an improved removal of small and large solutes, less cardiovascular stress and improved anaemia management. The AK200 Ultra S machine is specifi cally designed and proven for on-line HDF while the unique ULTRA SteriSet™ infusion line prepares non-pyrogenic, sterile-equivalent substitution fl uid when fed with ultrapure water. The innovative BiCart Select® system makes the preparation of dialysis fl uids easier, safer, more hygienic and more individualised.

An evaluation of ULTRA therapies, in comparison with standard HD, reveals that patients suffer fewer hypotensive episodes, fewer cramps, less headaches, reduced post-treatment fatigue and an increase in energy. In brief, their quality of life is enhanced and the pursuit of Gambro Hospal Quality Steps in Dialysis Therapies ensures this happens on the fi rst time, and each subsequent occasion.

For more information on Gambro Hospal’s Quality Steps concept, or on the products which enable each step to be performed optimally, please telephone 01480 444000.

Implementing European Best Practice Guidelines in Dialysis through a logical sequence of quality steps

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The National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) on the 24th May 2004 launched a package of measures designed to help hospitals in England and Wales to reduce errors associated with infusion devices.

The NPSA has issued a Safer Practice Notice outlining the steps that hospitals can take to improve patient safety and make signifi cant cost savings.

Most infusion treatment – commonly used to deliver fl uids and drugs via a drip into the vein – is delivered safely. However, patient safety issues involving infusion devices have been identifi ed by the NPSA, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Royal College of Nursing (RCN).

The NPSA has also developed a package of practical solutions to help trusts implement the recommendations and take action to improve the way that infusion devices are purchased used, stored and maintained. The NPSA worked with the NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency (NHS PASA), Welsh Health Supplies and six NHS trusts to develop and test the solutions.

The study identifi ed:

* 321 incident reports a year linked to infusion device use in the six trusts;

* On average 31 infusion device types available in each trust, and a high risk of staff error due to confusion over device functionality and use;

* On average 65% of infusion devices idle for most of the time in each trust;

* Signifi cant potential cost savings - reducing stock by only 10% would bring average savings of £120,000 per organisation.

David Edwards, Chief Executive of Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust, one of the pilot sites, said:

“Actively managing the way we use and store infusion devices not only makes a safer environment for patients and life easier for staff, but it also brings effi ciency savings with fewer devices lying unused.”

Before beginning the study, the NPSA reviewed the global evidence on infusion device user error and MHRA data, looked at best practice in the NHS, sought feedback from health professionals and patients, and reviewed its own data to identify possible solutions.

Dr Helen Glenister, Director of Safety Solutions at the NPSA said:

“It was clear to us that with many different types of these complex devices in use in modern healthcare systems, and no standard approach to purchasing, storing and maintaining them, it was inevitable that staff would make mistakes.

“The success of this project has depended on the efforts of the trusts involved – they have helped to provide the evidence that these solutions work, to assess the potential benefi ts and to prove that with senior management commitment and support they can be practically applied in a large trust.”

The NPSA’s package of solutions includes:

* An assessment to review existing infusion device purchasing processes and a checklist to help trusts ensure that the right people are involved in decision making;

* A questionnaire to help in the evaluation of devices prior to purchase;

* Advice for trusts on how to develop a business case for an equipment library or other centralisation facility;

* A spreadsheet to help trusts establish a local economic appraisal.

The solutions are now available at www.pasa.nhs.uk/infusiondevices.

In recognition of the need for better staff training tools in using infusion devices, the NPSA is now working with NHSU to develop an accredited e-learning programme for all staff who use infusion devices, using a national competency framework. This is likely to be available in autumn 2004.

www.npsa.nhs.uk

Safer use of infusion devices will

reduce harm to patients and save

the NHS £millions



A morphologist has joined forces with a unique surgical training conference organiser to produce a series of training programmes for distance learning.

Morphologist, Bob Anderson, said: “I have called on Kevin Austin’s services for four years now, during which time I have witnessed the exciting development of the WETLAB principle.

Saving the National Health Service millions of pounds by accelerating the surgical skills of junior surgeons, Warwickshire Company WETLAB Limited facilitates seminars that are reputed to be as close to the real thing as any surgeon will get before taking a knife to their fi rst patient in the operating theatre.

WETLAB is a generic term for a hands-on workshop for the practice of all manner of medical procedures, using animal tissue.

“Although I have no direct contact with patients, I’ve been involved with the education and training of cardiac surgeons throughout my career. The WETLAB concept opens up an entire new vista of educational opportunities for them,” said Bob.

He continued: “Cardiac surgeons and cardiologists themselves have commented on the advantages gained from performing operative procedures on preserved animal hearts in a carefully controlled environment. From my position, WETLAB also provides the opportunity to demonstrate the salient anatomy.

“I believe that without appropriate knowledge of the underlying anatomic arrangement of the cardiac structures, the surgeon operates effectively with one arm tied behind his or her back.”

The professor believes that WETLAB fully address’s this problem, enabling the expert anatomist to demonstrate’s the salient features, either via video or a live WETLAB seminar.

“However, with his experience of conference organization, WETLAB takes us much further than that,” added Bob. “Thus, Kevin and I are working together to develop distance learning packages that will crystallize the key anatomic features of cardiac surgical procedures - such as replacement of the aortic valve, or repair of the mitral valve.

“This is but the start. Kevin and I believe that such programmes will prove invaluable to the medical profession, enabling students to eventually match the understanding of the cardiologist or cardiac surgeon.”

A leading world provider of heart valves, pacemakers and defi brillators, St Jude Medical has reinforced its extensive association with WETLAB by sponsoring the seminars. Always relishing the opportunity to solve a seemingly unsolvable problem for each client, Kevin and his associates have devised a wide range of hands-on realistic training models.

Bob and St Jude Medical’s distance learning materials will soon be available from St Jude Medical and via the internet, providing the basic knowledge for students to build upon prior to attending a WETLAB event.

* For further information about WETLAB, telephone Kevin Austin on: 01926 850289 or 07831 129583 - or visit: www.wetlab.co.uk.

Pair put their hearts into unique distance training programme

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STRATFORD UPON AVON, England, May 13 - Arrhythmia Alliance: Promoting better understanding, diagnosis, treatment and quality of life for individuals with cardiac arrhythmias.

A new charity has been launched aimed at combating heart rhythm disorders and tragic sudden deaths in young people.

Arrhythmia Alliance, A-A, is a coalition of charities, professional medical groups and industry allies. The groups will work together under the Arrhythmia Alliance umbrella to promote timely and effective diagnosis and treatment of arrhythmias. It also aims to prevent sudden death and improved quality of life for all those living with heart rhythm disorders, (arrhythmias).

A-A is the brainchild of Trudie Lobban, CEO of the charity STARS and director of Arrhythmia Awareness Week, who announced the charity’s formation during Arrhythmia Awareness Week (May 12th -18th) A cardiac arrhythmia is where the heart beats too fast, too slow or beats irregularly. It covers a range of conditions from a transient loss of consciousness (T-LOC) and Refl ex Anoxic Seizures, to Cardiomyopathy and Sudden Adult Death syndrome (SADS).

The arrhythmia agenda was moved forward signifi cantly at the AAAW launch on Wednesday 12th May. Dr Roger Boyle, the National Director for Heart Disease announced a consultation on a new chapter of the National Service Framework (NSF) on Coronary Heart Disease. The new area will cover heart arrhythmias, which he said will form an important part of the heart agenda. Public Health Minister, Melanie Johnson, who also addressed leading cardiologists, MPs and patient groups at the launch, said the change was made in response to the campaigning of the Arrhythmia Awareness Week charities. Ms Johnson and Dr Boyle have given their full backing to the new Arrhythmia Alliance charity.

They congratulated Arrhythmia Alliance founder, Trudie Lobban on the new initiative looking at arrhythmia from its initial symptoms to successful treatment. Mrs Lobban said. “I am delighted that Ms Johnson has acted in such a positive and timely way to our campaign. It shows that small charities can make a real difference to public policy. I would like to thank both Ms Johnson and Dr Boyle for their support and look forward to working with them in the formation of the new chapter on arrhythmia in the NSF on Coronary Disease.”

A-A is designed to maintain the momentum of the Arrhythmia Awareness Week, (AAAW). The new charity will carry forward and expand on the goals of AAAW. The primary and most important aim is to infl uence the depth and breadth of the new NSF chapter on arrhythmias. The charity’s president will be Professor John Camm, of St George’s Hospital, London. Professor Camm is acknowledged as one of the world’s foremost cardiologists.

A-A will utilise the expertise and knowledge of leading heart rhythm doctors and medical groups, of charities whose members have fi rst hand experience of living with arrhythmias, and of industry colleagues, to benefi t those suffering from heart rhythm disorders.

A-A aims to help develop the knowledge and skills of medical professionals. We will cultivate multi-centre and multi-discipline research in order to help prevent sudden cardiac death and prevent the misdiagnosis of transient loss of consciousness (T-LOC). T-LOC is very common with 20-30 % of patients with epilepsy being misdiagnosed, amounting to 120,000 patients misdiagnosed in the UK.

A-A will assess and quantify unmet need amongst those affected by arrhythmia and turn the spotlight on the high social, healthcare and economic cost of undetected and untreated arrhythmias. It also wants to broadcast the value and need for cardiac pacing in the UK.

A-A main objective is to promote centres of excellence for arrhythmia diagnosis and treatment and act as a catalyst to provide more resources for complete cures for many types of arrhythmia which are now possible with catheter ablation techniques.

A-A will secure better care, leading to a better quality of life, for individuals with arrhythmia and will save thousands of lives. Mrs Lobban said “The new initiative means everyone wins. The government will save millions of pounds, doctors will receive better training and patients will receive speedier diagnoses and appropriate care.”

For more information, contact Trudie Lobban on +44 (0)1789 450787. Email: [email protected] www.arrhythmiaalliance.org.uk

Source: Arrhythmia Alliance PRNewswire

Heart Rhythm Charity Launched A-A



Hitchin, May 26th, 2004 – SonoSite, leading manufacturer of high-performance, hand-carried ultrasound, has announced the addition of new cardiology capabilities to its TITAN™ system. The new upgrade offers full cardiac and vascular calculation packages, pulsed and continuous wave Doppler, Tissue Harmonic Imaging, velocity-based color Doppler, M-Mode and image storage to compact fl ash cards. The new high performance capabilities will enable clinicians to use TITAN to perform full echocardiography and vascular studies in the clinic or at the point-of-care, allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Current TITAN customers will be able to upgrade to the enhanced TITAN system capabilities using a simple compact fl ash card.

This is SonoSite’s 3rd major feature upgrade to TITAN. In December 2003, SonoSite began customer deliveries of a new software package for vascular imaging and expanded connectivity capabilities, whilst in April the obstetric features were expanded to provide state of the art reporting capabilities

The TITAN system is based on SonoSite’s proprietary ASIC (Application Specifi c Integrated Circuit) technology, integrating millions of transistors onto one circuit.

Weighing only 7.7 pounds (3.5 kg.), the TITAN system boots up in less than 12 seconds and can be easily carried to wherever it is needed to immediately deliver patient care effi ciently and effectively.

For more information contact: Gillian Duffy, SonoSite Telephone 01462 444800

Regent Medical, the UK’s leading supplier of surgical gloves and Hibi Antiseptics range, has launched a new wall dispenser for its Hibi product.

The new Hibi Wall Dispenser has been designed to be long lasting, durable and hygienic. It is simple to refi ll with both old and new design Hibi bottles, and it can be removed from the wall and sterilized in an autoclave.

Made from durable steel with a corrosion resistant chrome nickel coating the new dispenser is box packaged and is pre-assembled. Designed to be hard wearing the design of the dispenser helps reduce the risk of cross contamination because it had no fi xed integrated dip tube.

For further information on the new dispenser, please contact your Regent sales representative or contact Heidi James on 01565 625174.

THE HIBI WALL

DISPENSER FROM

REGENT MEDICAL

SonoSite Introduces Cardiology Capabilities For TITAN

Hand-Carried Ultrasound System Now Provides Complete Capabilities for Echo Studies

Long lasting,hard wearing andeasy to clean

The Hibi Wall Dispenser

from Regent Medical

REGENT



Oxford Biosensors will be exhibiting Multisense, a new point-of-care diagnostic analyser, at the 2004 AACC Annual Meeting and Lab Exposition in Los Angeles in July. Multisense performs multiple diagnostic tests on a single drop of blood in seconds, anywhere. The system consists of disposable diagnostic test strips, a portable mobile phone-sized reader, docking station and printer.

The Multisense ‘Cardiac Risk’ test measures total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterols and triglycerides individually on one test strip. The tiny disposable diagnostic test strips incorporating micron-sized electrodes are inserted into a reader where results are displayed immediately.

The size of the instruments makes them extremely versatile in use. They can be wall mounted or moved from offi ce to clinic as demand dictates. The instruments can be confi gured into an interlocking rack sharing the same power, downloading and printing facilities, making it the perfect system for busy cardiology units.

Designed to assist clinicians in the screening, diagnosis and monitoring of patients who are at risk of coronary heart disease, the Multisense ‘Cardiac Risk’ test enables doctors and nurses to obtain test results quickly and easily, without the delay and ineffi ciency of using a central laboratory.

For further information please contact: Will Colón, Oxford Biosensors Ltd, Oxford Industrial Park, Mead Road, Yarnton, Oxfordshire OX5 1QU.Tel: 01865 849100. Fax: 01865 849200.Email: [email protected] Website: www.Oxford-Biosensors.com

NEW CHOLESTEROL ANALYSER FROM OXFORD BIOSENSORS AT

AACC STAND NUMBER 1347


UK AND SLOVAK GOVERNMENTS SIGN CO-OPERATION AGREEMENT

A new joint UK-Slovak programme to boost collaboration into a range of medical conditions was announced by Health Minister John Hutton recently.

Mr Hutton signed a joint agreement between the UK and Slovak Republic covering medicine and public health.

The agreement will enable medical specialists in both countries to develop work across a range of issues - such as general surgery, transplant surgery and cancer diagnosis and treatment.

John Hutton said: “The UK is full committed to developing closer collaboration on health with our new EU partners. The agreement we’re signing today is a positive example of this commitment. It will allow specialists bothour countries to develop new contacts and areas for further research.”

Both countries will inform the WHO of the most important results oftheir co-operation.

The latest in a new generation of nasal masks claims to provide comfort and customisation on a scale never before available. Launched in the UK by Profi le Respiratory Systems, the ComfortGel mask incorporates a proven dual-layer cushion design which, combined with customisable blue gel, provides unequalled levels of comfort, fi t, stability and seal.

This superior cushion is paired with the new StabilitySelector(tm) that adjusts to optimise seal and provide a secure, comfortable fi t. The auto-adjusting forehead support cushion is extra wide to help eliminate pressure points, while the new ‘’ball and socket’’ headgear attachments make it easy to remove the mask without losing adjustments.

Patient comfort is further enhanced by the newly-designed silent exhalation port which reduces the incidence of ‘whistling’ and other factors that can disturb sleep.

Available in four sizes ComfortGel, like all masks in the Comfort Series(tm), is latex-free and designed to meet the high standards required by healthcare providers and their patients.

Profi le, which has been providing solutions to respiratory care problems for over 25 years, sells its products and drugs to hospitals, medical practices and clinics in over 40 countries.

Profi le Respiratory Systems, Heath Place, Bognor Regis, West Sussex. Tel: 0870 770 3434

PROFILE LAUNCHES CUSTOMISABLE NASAL MASK

Unsurpassed comfort and optimum seal from ComfortGel(tm)



Keeler has announced that it has exclusive UK distribution rights for the award winning Hogies MediView range of wrap-around surgical loupe frames.

Winner of the 2003 Australian Design Award, Hogies MediView frames are, the company claims, much more comfortable to wear than any other loupe frame. They wrap around and grip the head so that the weight of the loupes is more evenly distributed, making them feel lighter. They also have a stylish, modern look and come in a range of ‘metallic’ colours, including silver, gold, green, blue and black. A protective side shield also helps to protect the surgeon’s eyes from cross-infection.

Loupes and light sources are attached using a novel magnetised panel on the front of the frames. This simple system means loupes and lights can be easily fi xed or removed, together or separately, whenever necessary.

For more information about the Hogies MediView range, visit Keeler’s Website at www.keeler.co.uk or alternatively go to www.hogies.com

Hogies Surgical Loupe Frames - Stylish, Comfortable & Safe.


The new Crystal Metal Disposable Blade range from Penlon, features a unique heel design which prevents contact between the tip of the blade and the handle when the blade is moved to the ‘closed’ position, having already been inside the patient’s mouth.

This inexpensive range fi ts all European ISO ‘Green’ system handles, and features true Macintosh and Miller profi les (Mac sizes 2, 3, and 4 and Miller sizes 0, 1, 2 and 3).

The blades are manufactured from strong stainless steel and are ideal for diffi cult intubations. No change in intubation technique is required during use.

Crystal Metal complements Penlon’s extensive range of single-use infection control products, including the original polycarbonate Crystal blade, the LaryGard™ blade sheath, and the Penlon Blade Sheath, to give clinicians a greater choice of single use products for intubation.

Penlon Limited has been developing and manufacturing high quality laryngoscopes and other anaesthesia and critical care medical equipment for over 60 years, and supplies hospitals and clinics throughout the UK, and to over 100 countries worldwide.

Penlon Limited, Abingdon Science Park, Abingdon, OX14 3PHTel: 01235 547036 Fax:01235 547023 E-mail: [email protected] www.penlon.com

Penlon Crystal Metal Single Use

Laryngoscope Blade – eliminates

contact between blade and handle


A charity hospital ship, which will be open for public tours when it visits the UK from 15th June – 5th July 2004, will report on the plight of thousands of women in West Africa who are suffering needlessly from a condition, which leaves them incontinent and outcast from their society.

The Mercy Ship M/V Anastasis, which sails to some of the poorest nations in the world offering medical and long-term development help, has been working with women in Sierra Leone suffering from Vesico-vaginal fi stula (VVF). The condition is brought about by prolonged labour resulting in internal tearing, which means the woman is constantly wet and stigmatised by the resulting bad odour. Often her family and husband reject her as she is considered worthless.

No one knows how many women live with Vesico-vaginal fi stula, as even those women rendered ‘wet’ by the tear often don’t know the name of their affl iction and many live anonymously on the edge of society.However, according to the United Nations Population Fund’s Campaign to End Fistula, between 50,000 and 100,000 women are affected by fi stulas each year. About 90 per cent of fi stulas (holes) develop after obstructed and prolonged labour.

Mercy Ships provides women with free operations, repairing the VVFs and allowing the women to live normal lives once again. The charity is also training national doctors to perform the operation and medical staff to provide the vital post-operative care. During its latest seven-month stint in Sierra Leone, Mercy Ships carried out 90 VVF surgeries, but the long-term legacy of treatment and preventative care should see thousands more women benefi t over time.

Dr. Brian Hancock, a Mercy Ships surgeon from the UK, said that an obstruction could occur if the child’s head is too large, the woman’s pelvis

Mercy Ships to Highlight Women’s Health Issues in Africais too narrow, or the child is positioned the wrong way. In the West the woman would undergo a caesarean section at the hospital. In Africa, the woman, typically attended by a TBA (traditional birth attendant), will push and push and push, labouring for days. Sometimes the woman dies of exhaustion. If she survives, the pressure of the child on the tissues can create a hole, causing VVF.

For the third consecutive year, Mercy Ships has continued to address the issue of VVF in Sierra Leone. As well as focusing on treatment, Mercy Ships is educating TBAs – those on the front lines of most deliveries in Sierra Leone – to prevent prolonged labours and VVF.Volunteer surgeon, Lord McColl, helped pioneer the VVF surgeries in Sierra Leone in 1991. The women who were operated on, previously denied a normal existence, literally danced down the gangway from the ship following their operations, clad in new, clean, dry dresses, free of the stench of the condition and the shame they had once been subjected to.

“Some fi gures suggest that 50,000 to 100,000 women develop fi stulas each year,” said Lord McColl. “What we are doing may seem like just a drop in the ocean, but as we train more local doctors and work with hospitals and offi cials to raise basic levels of healthcare, increasing numbers of women will have some kind of hope, where previously they had none.”

The Anastasis will be docked in Birkenhead West Float, Liverpool, when it will be open for public tours.

To book a tour or for more information regarding specifi c events taking place around the ship’s visit, please call Mercy Ships UK on 0870 321 6777 or visit www.touramercyship.org.uk or for more general information regarding the charity, www.mercyships.org.

SOME of the world’s leading surgical experts joined the Facial Surgery Research Foundation - Saving Faces on Thursday 10th June to launch the world’s fi rst collaborative surgical research centre dedicated to disorders affecting the mouth and face.

The de Lotbiniere Facial Surgery Research Centre will co-ordinate pioneering research by top surgeons in the UK and worldwide into cancer of the face and mouth, facial injuries and deformities - addressing an urgent need to identify the best methods of prevention and treatment in this chronically under-funded area.

Oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the world. It is almost as common in the UK as leukaemia and melanoma and its incidence is twice that of cervical cancer. Meanwhile, 125,000 teenagers in the UK are affected by severe facial injuries every year and facial surgery is needed to correct the facial disfi gurement of over 4,000 young people.

World’s First Facial Surgery Research Centre Launched In LondonThe offi cial launch, which took place at the South Bank’s Purcell Room, kicked off with a programme of public science discussions and an overview of the research conducted by the Facial Surgery Research Foundation, chaired by Channel Four broadcaster Jon Snow. Among the speakers attending the launch were internationally renowned medical experts.

lain Hutchison, consultant in Oral and Maxillofacial surgery and founder of The Facial Surgery Research Foundation, says: “The Centre will enable the UK to lead the medical world in researching better treatments and prevention strategies for disorders affecting the mouth and face. It will provide the infrastructure for leading surgeons to instigate collaborative studies leading to treatments that will more rapidly advance a patient’s recovery than vastly more expensive and time-consuming laboratory research.”Website: www.savingfaces.co.uk Email: [email protected]


Healthline Products Ltd is a major supplier to the UK National Health Service of a wide range of quality-assured latex, vinyl and synthetic gloves. Currently the company provides over 400 UK NHS Hospitals with powder-free examination gloves. Healthline markets three brands of medical grade products, aimed at different customer groups, including the recently launched CISION® Gel-coated latex surgeons gloves.

CISION branded products are the latest to be manufactured within the Healthline Group. These advanced surgeons gloves offer customers a choice of both performance and cost options, dependant upon procedure and budget available. The CISION range embraces surgeons gloves designed for maximum comfort and are available in standard sizes from 5.5 to 9.0. They are also attractively priced and represent exceptional value for money. CISION Gel GS74 gloves are particularly designed for superior donnability and where extra strength is required.

Healthline® branded items represent the premium range of powder-free medical examination gloves. A continuous development programme is aimed at minimising the levels of protein in these latex products, as well as residual chemicals in all ranges. Ongoing upgrades ensure superior performance which minimise the risk of users incurring allergic skin reactions with the Healthline gloves.

All Healthline’s medical products are CE marked and presented in a range of dispensers for convenient access. Healthline also supports its customers with a range of educational services, including guidelines for glove policies, information on latex allergy, glove usage instructions, glove audits and study day support.

For a copy of Healthline’s latest product catalogue please telephone the company on 01234 244100.

Healthline Products: Advanced solutions for stringent medical procedures.

Healthline Product Catalogue

showing wide range of medical

gloves now available


Gambro Hospal Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Gambro AB, has published a comprehensively illustrated brochure to mark the launch of Prismafl ex, its innovative new system for the treatment of critically ill renal patients. The brochure records both how the company has focused its efforts on the development of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapies, and how the introduction of Prismafl ex leads the way into the future for these treatments.

Flexibility is the key to the benefi t of Prismafl ex and its ability to dose treatment according to the patient’s needs. The dynamic new looks of the system, coupled with its harmonious colours and aesthetic design are prominently shown in the brochure. The hydraulic circuit of Prismafl ex is featured in diagrammatic form and there is a clear view of the contents of the colour-coded pre-connected sets for all CRRT therapies.

Photographs show the innovative features of the Prismafl ex including:

1 Bar code reader for set recognition; this registers the lot number and defi nes the fl ow rates available for the disposable set chosen.

2 High precision scales with scale handles for improved manual handling of the fl uid bags.3 Electrostatic discharge device to avoid ECG interference.

The brochure also details the further enhancement of the best features of the current market leading Prisma machine in terms of ease of use with the added benefi ts of a colour touch screen and a smart alarm system for fewer manual interventions.

The Prismafl ex brochure also contains many background ‘in-use’ shots, screen parameters and guidelines on the type of membrane in use in the fi lters advised for various CRRT or TPE applications.It is an excellent complement for users of Prismafl ex and the ideal information source for those requiring more information on this outstanding system for blood purifi cation.

Copies of the Prismafl ex brochure can be obtained by telephoning Gambro Hospal on 01480 444000.

New Prismaflex® brochure illustrates how treatment flexibility benefits critically ill renal patients


De Meern, Netherlands, - June 1, 2004 - Aspect Medical Systems (NASDAQ: ASPM) today announced that results from a prospective study of the potential of BIS(tm) monitoring to reduce the risk of intraoperative awareness were published in the 9,423rd issue of The Lancet. The study, known as B-Aware, documented that use of BIS monitoring to help guide anaesthetic dosing reduced the risk of awareness with recall in high-risk patients by 82 percent. The B-Aware study is one of the largest anaesthesia-related investigations ever conducted and the largest to document the value of BIS(tm) monitoring in reducing the risk of patients inadvertently waking during surgery.

The B-Aware trial was a prospective, randomised, double-blind, multi-centre investigation conducted in 24 hospitals in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Thailand and the UK. The study examined 2,500 patients considered to have a high risk of awareness during surgery, either because they had experienced it before or because they were undergoing procedures such as heart surgery where a light anaesthetic is preferable.

Findings from B-Aware support results documented in a recent prospective Scandinavian study, known as Safe 2, published in Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica in January 2004. The Safe 2 trial was a prospective historical control trial that examined the general patient population and found a 77 percent reduction in the incidence of awareness with recall when BIS monitoring was used. Safe 2 trial investigators also provided a commentary on awareness research in this issue of The Lancet.

“Publication of the B-Aware study in the prestigious journal The Lancet provides additional scientifi c evidence to the anaesthesia community that BIS monitoring can help reduce the risk of intraoperative awareness with recall in surgical patients,” said Paul Manberg, PhD, vice president of clinical, regulatory and quality assurance for Aspect. “This study joins a signifi cant body of clinical evidence documenting the overall benefi ts of incorporating BIS monitoring into current clinical practice. Studies demonstrate that the device helps anaesthesia providers ensure that each patient receives just the right amount of anaesthetic, thereby reducing the chances of inadvertent overdosing and underdosing.”

About BIS Monitoring: Using a sensor placed on the patient’s forehead, BIS monitoring translates information from the electroencephalogram (EEG) into a single number that represents each patient’s level of consciousness. This number - the BIS value - ranges from 100 (indicating an awake patient) to zero (indicating the absence of brain activity). Using the BIS value to guide administration of anaesthetic medication, in conjunction with other vital signs, allows clinicians to make better informed decisions to achieve optimal anaesthesia.

For more information, visit Aspect’s web site at: www.aspectmedical.com.

STUDY PUBLISHED IN THE LANCET REPORTSBIS MONITORING REDUCES RISK OF INTRAOPERATIVE

AWARENESS WITH RECALL IN HIGH-RISK PATIENTS



UVGI Ltd. have jointly sponsored a meeting entitled ‘Redesigning Chronic Disease Management’ which was held on 25th May at the Sheraton Park Lane Hotel, London. The one-day conference included a keynote lecture from Sir Liam Donaldson, Chief Medical Offi cer.

The subject of chronic disease management is of major signifi cance to UVGI who manufacture Nightingale, a new environmental disinfection method that uses ultraviolet light to tackle the problem of hospital-based pathogens. The Nightingale is the fi rst ever British mobile air sanitisation system with the ability to provide positive or negative room pressurisation in line with CDC and NHS guidelines.

The UVGI sponsored meeting was specifi cally designed for Primary Care Trusts. The conference addressed the overall issue of the management of Chronic Medical conditions, specifi cally concentrating on the practicalities of implementing a coordinated approach.

With the introduction of new initiatives, including the Expert Patient Programme, hospitals now recognise the opportunity to make a signifi cant change to the care and management of chronic disease. Some of the crucial issues that were covered included how to learn lessons from the US on case management of chronic disease, training and development of staff to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions and taking a whole systems approach to redesigning chronic disease management.

Chronic diseases can affect as many as 17.5 million adults in the UK and represent a huge and increasing burden on NHS resources. International experience has shown that better integration between primary, secondary and social care can reduce hospitalisation and yet provide better care for patients. PCTs are in the ideal position to bridge the gap and plan for integrated care. In order to meet this challenge services will need to be replanned and redesigned to give a more coordinated, responsive and integrated approach.

Speakers, including Sir Liam Donaldson, Chief Medical Offi cer and Gary Belfi eld, Head of Primary Care and Policy for Chronic Disease, Department of Health, discussed experiences including patient self-management programmes, the development of staff skills, multi-agency integrated working and preventative measures to avoid unnecessary and inappropriate hospital admissions. The authoritative panel of speakers described the different models of care available, giving the audience the opportunity to update on the latest trends taking place nationwide and receive advice on how to take forward current systems and procedures.

A panel discussion and Q&A sessions gave an excellent opportunity to question experts and share views. The audience numbered 260 with delegates working in Nursing, Operations, Intermediate Care, Commissioning, Clinical Leads as well as those involved in the planning, commissioning and delivery of chronic disease management services.

For further information please contact: Joseph Tufo UVGI LtdTelephone: 01256 814162 E-mail: [email protected]

UVGI sponsor ‘Redesigning Chronic Disease Management’ conference

Sir Liam Donaldson gives keynote lecture on the 21st Century Healthcare Challenge

Quote ‘OTJ’


Biotrace International’s range of Pre-Prepared Media (Biotrace PPM) has been specifi cally designed to meet the needs of the pharmaceutical industry. Complying with GMP regulations and customer audit requirements, the range is supported by a high level of customer service.

Quality systems and procedures play a critical role throughout the production and distribution process. Manufacture is carried out using only raw materials sourced from approved suppliers and manufacturers, in a state of the art facility that includes a 100 m2 cleanroom validated to ISO 14644-1. All Biotrace PPM products are routinely tested for sterility, performance, pack integrity and accuracy of documentation.

Performed by trained in-house microbiologists, QC testing includes sterility, physical and growth promotion tests, with all specifi cations and processes conforming to USP, BP and EP guidelines. The manufacturing site of the culture media is the fi rst and only in Europe to achieve the latest GMP accreditation from the Pharmaceutical Quality Group, PS9100. Providing fl exibility of supply, a large buffer stock capacity ensures faultless routine delivery and quick response times for any emergency requirements.

A range of plated and liquid culture media is available. This includes triple-wrapped and irradiated plated media for environmental monitoring comprising of settle plates, contact plates and 140mm air sampler plates for use with Air Trace air samplers for environmental and compressed gas monitoring. Also available are isolation, identifi cation and enumeration media. A selection of liquid sterility testing media and rinse solutions in bottles and bags complement the media portfolio.

Biotrace PPM is part of Biotrace International’s growing product offering to the pharmaceutical industry, which also includes, Biotrace ATP-based rapid hygiene monitoring systems, an extensive range of dipslides, and the recently launched Biotrace AIR TRACE air samplers for environmental monitoring and compressed gas.

For more information on any of the products available please contact Biotrace International on +44 (0) 1656 641 400 or [email protected]: www.biotrace.com

BIOTRACE’S EVER-GROWING SOLUTIONS FOR THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY

FOR QUICK RESULTS ADVERTISE

IN

THE OPERATING THEATRE

JOURNAL

THE NO. 1 IN NEWS FOR ALL THEATRE STAFF

PLEASE PHONE

07092 097696

Cairn Technology working in alliance with major hospitals has come up with a solution to reduce waiting lists by enabling hospitals to clean up theatres in record time.

The environmental consultancy fi rm have been working closely with hospitals over the past six years and have built a reputation for delivering high quality tailored solutions to the problems they face.

Such was the case with Ravenscourt Park Hospital, London - when they needed to improve the working environment of key staff in the operating theatre. Vast amounts of fl uids from procedures such as Arthroscopies, meant the fl oor was slippy, especially under the critical area by the surgeons and operating equipment. The hospital was looking to modify their current procedures and through a pro-active approach, Cairn listened to the Trust and they worked together to fi nd a solution.

Applying their specialist knowledge, Cairn has designed the T-Mop and T-Mat to tackle theatre spills. Using polymer gelling technology both rapidly absorb and gel liquids leaving a completely dry operating room, free from hazards of surface liquids. The mats were quickly introduced to Ravenscourt theatres for trialling and were an immediate success.

“ We would award 5 stars, we’ve never had any complaints, we fi nd it simple, effi cient and it saves us money. We would defi nitely recommend the T-Mat to other hospitals and we’re looking forward to introducing them Trust Wide,” said David Smith, Theatre Practitioner.

For further information Telephone Cairn Technology on: 0114 244 9551E-mail: [email protected]

Rave Reviews for Cairn Technology -

As They Mop Up Safety in Theatre



For further information on the SOLUS laryngeal airway

range please contact our customer care office on:

0118 9656 376 Or alternatively visit our website at:

www.intersurgical.comCrane House, Molly Millars Lane, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG41 2RZTel: +44(0)118 9656 300 Fax: +44(0)118 9656 356

OTJ04_04

INTERSURGICAL WORLDWIDE OFFICES: FRANCE • DEUTSCHLAND • ESPAÑA • PORTUGAL • NEDERLAND • LIETUVA • POCC • CESKÁ REPUBLICARN

^

The Intersurgical SOLUS™

. . .

. . . it stands aloneThe Solus single use laryngeal mask airway is

ideal for use in anaesthesia and emergency

medicine. The Solus embodies all the classic

features of a laryngeal mask airway with a

number of new refi nements. The single use Solus

overcomes all concerns regarding cross infection.

For further information on the SOLUS laryngeal airway

range please contact our customer care office on:

0118 9656 376 Or alternatively visit our website at:

www.intersurgical.comCrane House, Molly Millars Lane, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG41 2RZTel: +44(0)118 9656 300 Fax: +44(0)118 9656 356

OTJ04_04

INTERSURGICAL WORLDWIDE OFFICES: FRANCE • DEUTSCHLAND • ESPAÑA • PORTUGAL • NEDERLAND • LIETUVA • POCC • CESKÁ REPUBLICARN

^

The Intersurgical SOLUS™

. . .

. . . it stands aloneThe Solus single use laryngeal mask airway is

ideal for use in anaesthesia and emergency

medicine. The Solus embodies all the classic

features of a laryngeal mask airway with a

number of new refi nements. The single use Solus

overcomes all concerns regarding cross infection.

operating theatre journal · why a food allergy could put the skids under your career...

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