Tray design aims to tackle infection spread
A UK surgeon has developed an innovative product designed to reduce the risk of infection during patient transit and surgery.
The Clinicon Lavage Tray, which was developed by consultant orthopaedic surgeon John Hardy from Spire Bristol Hospital, is designed to reduce post-operative and blood-borne infections such as MRSA, Hepatitis B, C and HIV, in patients and staff working in operating theatres.
The inflatable and disposable plastic tray retains spilt blood and body fluids during patient transit and surgery, and comes in pre-sterilised packs of 10 units at a cost of £12.
Independent hospital provider Spire Healthcare will be the first company in the UK to benefit from the invention. Prototypes are already being used in Melbourne, Australia.
"It’s a key step in helping hospitals meet the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations, which are designed to cut the risk of cross-infections during transfer to and within the hospital environment," said Hardy. "For years, there’s been a known risk of infecting patients and staff through soaked surgical drapes. Healthcare workers face the highest risk being three to five times as likely to contract blood borne viruses such as Hepatitis C because of their increased exposure to these pathogens."
He added: "The beauty of this system is that it captures any infectious fluids and has a sieve-like device to provide rapid drainage. Self adhesive tapes allow the tray to be folded and secured for safe disposal immediately after its use."
Dr Jean-Jacques de Gorter, director of clinical services for Spire Healthcare, said the invention was an important step in helping to ensure the rates of cross-infection within the group’s network of 25 private hospitals.
Each hospital has a dedicated infection control lead; a high proportion of single room patient accommodation; stringent controls over the prescription of antibiotics; strict adherence to the WHO ‘five moments for hand hygiene' system and Laminar Air Flow filter systems in operating theatres. As a result patients can be confident of being treated in a clean and safe hospital environment.