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The Green Surgery Report – Surgical Products

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The Green Surgery Report (a) presents the first detailed account of how to reduce the environmental impact of surgical care.

One of its focus areas is surgical products and, in particular, how to minimise waste material and energy at all stages of a product’s life cycle.

By applying circular economy concepts to healthcare products, significant carbon emission reductions can be achieved. Ways to do this include reducing, reusing, recycling, and renewing surgical products (through repair or remanufacture).

The report gives seven recommendations for making these improvements. Below we have outlined how the Stille instruments that we supply to hospitals meet these aims.

Seven Surgical Care Product Section Recommendations:

1. Ensure that design and manufacture of products minimise the environmental impact throughout the product lifespan

Stille strives to make products that can be used for decades. This reduces the consumption of raw materials as well as the energy and carbon dioxide emissions that are the inevitable by-product of prospecting, mining, enrichment, processing and transport.

By manufacturing high-quality products with a long lifespan, Stille minimizes the amount of carbon dioxide emissions per procedure for each instrument.

Some of Stille’s XE instruments are also made with more environmentally friendly Chrome-free coating. This thin layer diamond-like-carbon proprietary technology aims to reduce discoloration, improve instrument durability and help to create a more sustainable environment.

2. Ensure that modes of distribution with lowest environmental impact are chosen

By choosing to distribute surgical instruments made in Sweden, rather than further afield, such as China or Pakistan, there are fewer miles involved in shipping the instruments to our Sheffield HQ, than with some UK instrument distributors.

What’s more, as part of Cairn Technology’s yearly Carbon Reduction Plan, we constantly monitor our carbon equivalent emissions for Scope 3 Category 4, with a view to minimising these wherever possible. For example, we encourage Stille to ship instruments from several orders to us at the same time, where this is practicable for our customers.

3. Reduce and rationalise equipment

Stille surgical instruments are warrantied for 30-year of use, meaning that you can reduce the number of times you need to reorder specific types of instruments for your sets.

This in turn means that fewer carbon emissions are generated by Stille instrument usage compared to disposable instrument alternatives or reusable instruments that are only warrantied for a couple of years.

4. Switch from single-use to reusable equivalents where available

The Report says that average reductions in carbon footprint of 38-56% are achieved through switching from single-use to reusable equipment.

By choosing Stille reusable surgical instruments over single-use disposable alternatives you can not only reduce cost in use per procedure, but also the carbon footprint of your instrument inventory.

5. Optimise reprocessing of reusable equipment

Stille instruments are designed to optimise cleaning and sterilisation. Not only does the instrument coating help to reduce the risk of corrosion and pitting, the actual design of the instruments allows them to be disassembled in cases where the SSD team need access to hard-to-reach areas.

6. Extend the lifespan of reusable products through repair and remanufacturing

Stille instruments are handmade through 70 steps to optimise strength, durability and precision. What’s more, they are designed with maintenance in mind to maximize longevity.

One example of this, is the SuperCut scissors that come with a removable screw. Not only does this allow for better cleaning, but also for the blades to be restored to their original condition by Stille’s service technicians.

7. Optimise waste

By choosing Stille instruments, that in some cases have still been found in use 50 years after manufacture, you can minimise the amount of waste generated in the whole process of making and disposing of the instruments.

More tips from The Green Surgery Report

Click here to read The Green Surgery Report in full and find out other ways in which you can minimise the environmental impact of surgical care in your hospital.

To find out more about Stille instruments click here or email info@cairntechnology.com to request further information or pricing.

 

 

References:
(a) Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Centre for Sustainable Healthcare, and UK Health Alliance on Climate Change (2023). Green surgery: Reducing the environmental impact of surgical care (v1.1). London: UKHACC. https://ukhealthalliance.org/sustainable-healthcare/green-surgery-report/

Helping you towards Net Zero with medical devices

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Are you aiming to reach Net Zero with the medical devices that you use in your hospital? Do you know that you can cut costs, waste and carbon emissions with Stille’s handcrafted surgical instruments?

Swedish surgical instrument brand, Stille, is renowned for its durability, precision and handling. In fact, Stille is so sure of the quality of its products that every instrument is warrantied for 30 years.

But how can handcrafted instruments made from high quality stainless steel and titanium be more cost-effective than cheaper reusable instruments, or even disposable ones?

The answer is revealed by analysing Cost-per-Use. Take a pair of Stille scissors costing £150 that is used for 30 years and another brand costing £80 that is used to its maximum warranty of 10 years. You can quickly calculate how much cheaper Stille instruments are per use. Just see below.

Reusable surgical instruments made by Stille offer reduced lifetime cost and carbon emissions,

Further cost savings

As Stille instruments last for a minimum of 30 years if used, cared for, and serviced correctly, you will also save on the cost of purchasing a greater volume of instruments over that 30-year period.

So, if you are considering buying a cheaper instrument that is half the price of a Stille one, but is only warrantied for 10 years, you will end up paying a third more over the 30-year period than by investing in Stille instruments. In other words, £240 for three £80 instruments, instead of £150 for one Stille equivalent.

Environmental Benefits

Every surgical instrument that is made takes its toll on the environment through extraction of materials, manufacturing and shipping. By using Stille instruments instead of shorter-lasting reusables or disposables, you can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your surgical instrument inventory.

What’s more, you will not only be reducing the number of surgical instruments that need to be disposed of at the end of their useful life, but you will also be able to minimise the carbon emissions associated with the disposal of the instruments used in your hospital.

To view our 2024 Carbon Reduction Plan, click here.

 

Do you want to view the Stille range?

To see the Stille range of instruments, just click here to browse our website.

Or if you would like to handle the instruments to get more of a feel for them, just call 0333 015 4345 to speak to our team or email us at info@cairntechnology.com.

If you can’t find what you need in the Stille range, we also offer other quality instrument brands for such things as laparoscopic surgery. Just contact us to let us know what you are looking for.

 

Cairn sees record year for Stille surgical instruments

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Sales of Stille surgical instruments rocketed for Cairn Technology in 2024, up by over 70% on the previous 12-month period.

The handmade instruments are becoming a much more established and well-know brand amongst consultant surgeons in the UK who are looking for high performance instrumentation that will last for at least 30 years of service.

“Our Stille surgical instruments are particularly popular with consultant surgeons specialising in plastic/reconstructive, cardiothoracic and orthopaedic surgery”, says Sharon Evans, Product Sales and Marketing Manager at Cairn Technology.

“At exhibitions, we often come across theatre staff and surgeons that have been using Stille for decades and are very familiar with the brand. We have also had a lot of interest from new clinics setting up. They want to deliver the very best for their customers and recognise that using Stille instruments can be an important part of that.”

What sets Stille surgical instruments apart

As Stille instruments are handcrafted in Sweden through 70 stages from high quality stainless steel or titanium, they deliver exceptional durability, precision and handling.

Designed for optimal cleaning and maintenance, they come with a 30-year warranty, with some instruments still in use in some hospitals after 50 years.

Watch this video to see how Stille instruments are manufactured and repaired by skilled craftspeople.

Interested in Stille instruments?

If you would like to see or handle any Stille instruments, or get a quotation for them, just call the Cairn Technology surgical instrument team on 0333 015 4345 or email us at info@cairntechnology.com

You can also click here to find out more about our Stille surgical instrument range

4 Reasons to Invest in Stille Cardiothoracic Instruments

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Cardiothoracic instruments need to be precise, durable and easy to handle in order to provide the consultant cardiothoracic surgeon with optimum support. Here, we look at four good reasons to invest in Stille’s offering:

1. Cardiothoracic scissors that provide the ultimate cut

Stille made the original SuperCut scissors combining one knife blade and one scissor blade for precise cutting to the very tip.

Stille’s vascular scissors and dissecting scissors embrace this design, giving the surgeon exceptional cutting performance in delicate procedures.

Stille’s SuperCut vascular scissors come with fine or extra fine blades at 25°, 45°, 60°, 90° and 125° angles.

Its wide range of Stille SuperCut Mayo and Metzenbaum style dissecting scissors include delicate scissors with diamond coated blades for extended durability, and ergonomic versions for reduced hand fatigue.

 

2. Micro instruments for fine work through to heavy duty

Stille’s range of micro instruments is ideal for cardiovascular and cardiothoracic surgery. From ultra fine scissors to heavy duty needle holders and atraumatic forceps, the surgeon has an extensive range to choose from.

For surgeons preferring to use titanium for reduced user fatigue during procedures, Stille also offers titanium models of its micro needle holders and micro forceps.

 

3. Reduced carbon footprint

As Stille’s instruments are handmade through 70 stages with high quality stainless steel or titanium, they come with a warranty of 30 years, provided they are used, serviced and maintained as advised.

This means that their use involves a much lower carbon footprint for NHS and private hospitals, compared to disposable instruments or reusable instruments that are only warrantied for a couple of years use.

You can find out more how Stille surgical instrument help hospitals reduce their carbon footprint by clicking here.

 

4. Ease of maintenance for SSD

During manufacturing, Stille pays particular attention to both to the quality of finish on the instruments and effective design for maintenance, making it the ideal choice for your Sterile Services Department.

Even when servicing Stille instruments, its craftsman can take used instruments apart for optimum refurbishing, bringing them back to their original condition, before sending them back to you.

You can click here to find out how used Stille scissors are brought back to top condition during instrument servicing.

Want to find out more about our cardiothoracic instruments?

To read about Stille’s range of cardiovascular and cardiothoracic instruments, including vascular forceps, vascular clamps, nerve hooks and retractors, click here.

Alternatively, call us on 0333 015 4345 to discuss your needs.

 

Advances in Plastic Surgery

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Plastic surgery has undergone remarkable transformations in recent years, with technological advances and innovative techniques revolutionizing the field. These innovations not only enhance the outcomes of procedures but also contribute to improved safety, reduced recovery times, and increased patient satisfaction. In this article, we will explore some of the cutting-edge innovations in plastic surgery that are shaping the future of the industry.

1. 3D Printing Technology: Precision in Reconstruction

One of the most groundbreaking innovations in plastic surgery is the integration of 3D printing technology. This technology allows surgeons to create precise, customized implants and prosthetics tailored to individual patient needs. In reconstructive surgery, 3D printing has been particularly beneficial, enabling surgeons to replicate intricate anatomical structures with remarkable accuracy. This has led to more natural-looking results and improved functionality for patients undergoing procedures such as breast reconstruction or facial reconstruction.

2. Augmented Reality (AR) in Surgical Planning

Augmented Reality is making its mark in plastic surgery by offering surgeons a dynamic and interactive tool for preoperative planning. With AR, surgeons can visualize and manipulate three-dimensional images of a patient’s anatomy in real time. This allows for more accurate planning of incisions, implant placement, and other surgical interventions. By enhancing surgical precision and reducing the margin of error, AR is contributing to safer surgeries and better outcomes.

3. Non-Surgical Innovations: Thread Lifts and Injectable Fillers

Advancements in non-surgical procedures have gained significant popularity in recent years. Thread lifts, for example, involve the use of dissolvable threads to lift and tighten sagging skin, providing a minimally invasive alternative to traditional facelifts. Injectable fillers, on the other hand, have seen continuous improvement with the introduction of new formulations and techniques, offering more natural and longer-lasting results without the need for surgery.

4. Regenerative Medicine: Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering

The integration of regenerative medicine into plastic surgery is opening new possibilities for tissue repair and regeneration. Stem cell therapy is revealing its potential to enhance wound healing and promote the regeneration of damaged tissues. Tissue engineering involves the creation of artificial tissues and organs using a combination of cells, biomaterials, and growth factors. These approaches hold promise for improving the outcomes of reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries.

5. Robot-Assisted Surgery: Precision and Efficiency

Robot-assisted surgery is becoming increasingly prevalent in plastic surgery, offering surgeons enhanced precision and control. These robotic systems can perform complex procedures with smaller incisions, resulting in less scarring and faster recovery times. The integration of robotics is particularly beneficial in procedures such as microsurgery, where precision is crucial for success.

Combining Advances in Plastic Surgery with Trusted Methods

Plastic surgeons continue to embrace innovations and advances to deliver improved results and reduced recovery times.

In addition, by using the very best existing technology in plastic surgery, such as hand-crafted surgical instruments that are designed to last decades and offer exceptional performance, the plastic surgeon can embrace both tried-and-tested and innovative solutions for optimum outcomes.

From SuperCut scissors, that offer precise cutting to the very tip, to double action rongeurs that enable the jaws to stay in orientation, high quality surgical instruments that are specifically designed for the task at hand remain one of the most powerful assets for the plastic surgeon. Click here to find out more about how we can support advances in plastic surgery.

 

 

Surgical Instrument Care: Ensuring Precision and Longevity

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Surgical instruments are indispensable tools in the realm of healthcare, playing a critical role in medical procedures that demand precision and accuracy.

To maintain their functionality and extend their lifespan, proper care and maintenance are essential. Surgeons and healthcare professionals must adhere to rigorous protocols for cleaning, sterilizing, and storing surgical instruments.

This article delves into the importance of surgical instrument care and outlines best practices to ensure their optimal performance.

1. Cleaning: The First Line of Defence

Proper cleaning is the foundation of surgical instrument care. Immediately after use, instruments should be thoroughly cleaned to remove blood, tissue, and other contaminants. Manual cleaning with a mild detergent or enzymatic cleaner is often the initial step. It is crucial to follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning agents and techniques to prevent corrosion and damage.

Ultrasonic cleaners are commonly used in healthcare settings, employing high-frequency sound waves to dislodge debris from hard-to-reach areas. Automated washer-disinfectors are also valuable for large-scale cleaning, providing a standardized and efficient process.

2. Inspection and Quality Control

After cleaning, a meticulous inspection is imperative. Every instrument should be examined for signs of damage, wear, or malfunction. Hinges, joints, and cutting edges should be scrutinized to ensure they meet the manufacturer’s specifications. Any instrument showing signs of wear or damage should be promptly removed from circulation and either repaired or replaced.

Routine quality control measures, such as regular inspections and testing, help identify issues early on, preventing potential complications during surgery. Establishing a comprehensive quality management system contributes to the overall safety and efficiency of surgical procedures.

3. Sterilization: Eliminating Pathogens

Sterilization is a critical step to eliminate pathogens and ensure aseptic conditions in the operating room. There are various sterilization methods available, including steam autoclaving, ethylene oxide gas, and hydrogen peroxide plasma. Each method has its advantages and limitations, and healthcare facilities must select the most appropriate method based on the types of instruments and materials used.

Validation processes and routine monitoring of sterilization equipment are essential to guarantee the effectiveness of the sterilization process. Stringent adherence to sterilization protocols is crucial for preventing surgical site infections and other complications.

4. Proper Storage: Preserving Instrument Integrity

Once cleaned and sterilized, surgical instruments must be stored properly to maintain their integrity. Sterile packaging, such as peel pouches or wrapped trays, helps prevent contamination during storage. Instruments should be stored in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated environment, away from direct sunlight and harsh chemicals.

Implementing an organized system for instrument storage ensures quick and easy access, reducing the risk of damage during retrieval. Regular checks of storage areas for cleanliness and organization are vital components of a comprehensive surgical instrument care program.

5. Education and Training: Empowering Healthcare Professionals

Education and training are integral components of effective surgical instrument care. Healthcare professionals, including surgeons, nurses, and SSD technicians, should receive comprehensive training on proper handling, cleaning, and maintenance procedures. Ongoing education programs help keep staff updated on the latest advancements in instrument care and reinforce the importance of adherence to established protocols.

6. Choosing high-quality instruments

Finally, hospitals can help sterile services department staff to clean and maintain surgical instruments more effectively by investing in high-quality reusable surgical instruments. Not only will these be manufactured to minimise the risk of corrosion, they are also often designed to be taken apart for effective cleaning and servicing. Take a look at our range of Stille instruments here if you are looking for surgical instruments that meet these requirements: https://cairntechnology.com/surgical-instruments/

 

 

 

DAS 2024 – Decontamination and Sterilisation Conference

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Is DAS 2024 already in your calendar? If you are a decontamination manager or lead, or part of the sterile services team then this is an event not to be missed.

Taking place on 6th February at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham, this transformative conference aims to shape the future of decontamination and sterilisation.

DAS 2024 Speakers and Workshops

Hosting a range of speakers including Trevor Garcia, Chairman of the Institute of Decontamination Sciences, and Sharon Fox, Head of Decontamination at University Hospital Birmingham NHS, talks will cover a range of topics from developing an effective staff competency framework to best practise for patient safety.

There will also be 15 workshops throughout the day, exploring topics including:

  • the role of the decontamination lead,
  • innovations in ultrasound decontamination,
  • advanced endoscope decontamination, and
  • the role of surface disinfection.

Other benefits for Decontamination Professionals

As a delegate, you can access a host of other benefits:

  • earn 7+ hours of CPD Accredited Points for your Annual Assessments,
  • interact with leaders in decontamination and sterilisation,
  • connect with professionals and stakeholders in the field, and
  • shape practices in decontamination and sterilisation.

Interested in best practice and products?

Come and see us on stand B12 to find out why decontamination and CSSU managers across the UK specify our products and services.

  • Stille Surgical Instruments

Come and handle our range of Stille surgical instruments, which are warrantied for 30 years.

You’ll be able to see how these instruments have been carefully designed to optimise longevity through ease of cleaning and maintenance. That’s why they offer exceptional precision, strength and durability despite decades of use.

Covering a wide range of specialisms from general and orthopaedic surgery to cardiothoracic, plastic surgery and more, they can be the stalwarts of your instrument sets for years to come.

To find out more about our Stille surgical instruments click here.

  • COSHH Monitoring for Endoscopy

Our workplace exposure monitoring helps endoscopy departments to achieve and maintain their annual JAG accreditation.

This provides important evidence that an NHS or independent UK endoscopy service is competent to deliver against the criteria set out in the JAG standards and fulfil IHEEM annual AE(D) audit part 9.6.

Our monitoring of endoscope decontamination rooms is carried out to assess staff exposure to peracetic and acetic acid.

It enables our customers to demonstrate that their control measures are keeping any exposure within required limits, as stated in regulation 10 of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health 2002 Regulations (COSHH).

To find out about our monitoring service for endoscope decontamination rooms click here.

Want to attend the Decontamination and Sterilisation Conference 2024?

To find out more about the DAS 2024 speakers, agenda and how to register just click here now.

We look forward to seeing you at the conference!