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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!