NHS Innovations North

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For Businesses: Can't find a product relevant to your company? We have many early stage products and innovations under development which we can discuss with you in confidence. Contact us at nhsinnovationsnorth@rtcnorth.co.uk indicating which clinical areas or products you are interested in. We will discuss your requirements with the National Innovation Hubs, to find opportunities specific to your needs.

Attachment	Title	Hub	Date	Sub type	Info
None	(Ref: 181) Broomfield Burn Glove A unique dual layer burns dressing for the hand that de-skills the dressing process and allows for the patient to change their dressing at home.	Health Enterprise East	18/Aug/2006	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 182) Medical Dressing A unique dressing designed to hold central venous catheters (CVCs) in place.	Health Enterprise East	18/Aug/2006	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 179) Radiotherapy mouth gag A simple one piece radiotherapy mouth gag that can be easily and quickly modified to patient specification.	Health Enterprise East	13/Jan/2006	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 180) Percutaneous Tracheotomy Endotracheal Ventilation Tube A new endotracheal ventilation tube designed to aid the percutaneous tracheostomy procedure.	Health Enterprise East	13/Jan/2006	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 167) Motorised Drip stand Motorised drip stand to aid lifting of heavy drip bags	Medipex Ltd	25/Nov/2005	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 161) Ear Scaffold Patients with prominent ears currrently undergo an otoplasty which takes 90min and has a 20% risk of complications. Ear staples made from a memory material can convert such a proceedure into a 10min out-patient process.The use of a memory material will prevent the ear from being accidentally distorted in the period when the ear cartilage re-models itself and allow the staple to be easily removed once re-modelling is complete.	Health Enterprise East	24/Sep/2005	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 160) LASSIE: Label and Separating Information Electronically Label and sample separating information electronically (Lassie). A logic based system that provides information on sample processing for biochemistry laboratories, including coloured stickers, specific information on sample handling, barcode labels for secondary tubes etc.	Health Enterprise East	25/Aug/2005	Software/IT
	(Ref: 157) Disposable Urine Collection Device The Technology Current methods of urine collection can be difficult, causing embarrassment to patients (for example due to leakage) and there is also a risk of sample contamination. Urine collection can be particularly difficult for female patients. An NHS professional has designed an inexpensive, environmentally friendly disposable urine collection device, which could alleviate these problems. The device provides a user-friendly means of giving a urine sample. The sample will have less risk of contamination and will therefore enable more representative 24hr urine collections. The device could also incorporate biochemical tests. The Advantages  Disposable device, therefore there is less chance of sample contamination and patient cross contamination in clinic, surgery and hospital environments.  Less chance of leakage and therefore less embarrassing for the patient  Much easier for female patients to use when compared to existing devices  Low ... [View complete information]	TrusTECH	25/Jun/2005	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 158) Paediatric Fixation Target A design for a remote activated, animated toy for paediatric assessment of squint and general eye assessment. The advantages of this device are: • Remote activation • Facilitates community and hospital eye testing • Reduced staff requirement The market consists of potential sales to Paediatric Departments in Specialist Eye Hospitals, General Hospital Eye Departments, Community Health Centres with eye screening service with 1-3 sales per Department/Centre. A North West NHS Trust is looking for a commercial partner to help develop this product to market	TrusTECH	25/Jun/2005	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 153) Lymph Node Biopsy Device A unique lymph node biopsy device which would eliminate the need for patients to undergo surgery (under general anaesthetic) to obtain sufficient tissue for analysis. It uses a novel parallel blade system to produce a flat section of tissue.	Health Enterprise East	29/May/2005	Diagnostics
None	(Ref: 139) Efficiency of ablation of malignant tumours This technology utilises high frequency microwaves in three dimensions to increase the efficiency of ablation of malignant tumours. We are seeking investment partners to further develop the technology.	Ventures for Health	17/Mar/2005	Specialised Equipment
None	(Ref: 140) Tissue Scaffold Angioglass is a scaffold specifically designed to promote angiogenesis in new tissue. This technology is available for licensing.	Ventures for Health	17/Mar/2005	Biotechnology
None	(Ref: 141) Cerebral Aneurysm Clip An implantable device that can be used to control blood flow in aneurysms inaccessible to ‘clipping’ or coiling’ techniques. We are currently seeking a commercial partner to invest in the development of this new technology.	Ventures for Health	17/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 142) Laparoscopic Stapling and Suture Device This device is ideal for procedures requiring tissue re-approximation such as hernia repair or Nissen Fundoplication. We are seeking development partners and commercial partners interested in licensing this novel technology.	Ventures for Health	17/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 143) Parkinson’s Disease Tremor Evaluation Clinical validation is required for bringing an established technology into a new application. The technology would allow at home assessment and have implications on medicine regime management and disease progression.	Ventures for Health	17/Mar/2005	Specialised Equipment
None	(Ref: 144) MRI Data Capture Technologies These data capture techniques reduce NRI scan times and result in clear images for diagnostics. Software is also available that can be used in areas of complex blood flow that have previously resulted in signal loss and blurred images. We are seeking a commercial partner interested in licensing this opportunity.	Ventures for Health	17/Mar/2005	Software/IT
None	(Ref: 145) Coronary Artery By-Pass Graft Cannula Clip A simple clip system to attach the cannula to the heart-lung by-pass machine has been developed. This opportunity includes access to all CAD files manufacturing data collected to date. Licensees are being sought for these devices.	Ventures for Health	17/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 137) Hand Dynamometer Decreased functionality of hand grip effects people of all ages and medical backgrounds e.g. those suffering from Stroke or Rheumatoid arthritis. Current treatment involves a physiotherapy programme involving the measurement of grip strength using a Hand Dynamometer. Current Hand Dynamometers are heavy, bulky and inconvenient to transport, difficult to read and unsuitable for patients with particularly weak grip. This development of an electronic Hand Dynamometer solves these problems. It is compact, easy to use, incorporates a range of bulb sizes and variable strength targets which means that all patients can benefit from this device. The clear display encourages patients to engage in the treatment more fully. Licensees are sought for this opportunity.	NHS Innovations North	13/Mar/2005	Therapeutics
None	(Ref: 138) Integrated Separation and Analysis in Raw Clinical Species These sensors have been developed for direct monitoring of clinical species with materials that allow integrated separation and sensing. They can be used directly in clinical media without the need for prior treatment. The method of detection may be electrochemical or optical. The sensors can, for example, be used for monitoring electrolytes, drugs, gases, hormones, and neurotransmitters, directly in raw body fluids.	NHS Innovations North	13/Mar/2005	Laboratory Apparatus
	(Ref: 127) Low cost approach to reduce blood transfusion errors A simple, low cost, semi-automatic label checking device intended to reduce the risk of incorrect blood administration by automating the manual checks involved in the administration of blood in pre-transfusion and transfusion procedures. The device is ideal for performing routine checks carried out in the Haematology Laboratory and at the patient’s bedside on the hospital ward.	NHS Innovations North	12/Mar/2005	Specialised Equipment
None	(Ref: 128) Hip Protector Current designs of hip protectors can be uncomfortable or inappropriate for the wearer. As result many patients do not wear them. This innovative self adhesive, silicone pad with a novel profile enables nursing staff or care providers to accurately place the pad to maximize the protection to the hip. Companies are sought to distribute and manufacture this device under licence.	NHS Innovations North	12/Mar/2005	Therapeutics
	(Ref: 129) Neonatal Haemodialyser Conventional haemodialysis machines cannot be used for smaller babies. This device makes it possible to haemodialyse babies under 2.5Kg. It reduces the mortality rate of acute renal failure babies, and eradicates donor blood risks for babies 2.5 to 6 kg.	NHS Innovations North	12/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 131) Microwave Hollow Organ Heating Probe This device provides a unique low cost means of treating Barrett''s Oesophagus.	ELIH	12/Mar/2005	Specialised Equipment
	(Ref: 132) Internal Probe Pulse Oximeter A new method of measuring oxygen levels in the brain	ELIH	12/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 133) Modular Falls Mat A landing mat specially designed to be placed alongside hospital and care home beds. This solution adresses the falls reisk associated with the trend for a reduced use of hopital bed rails.	ELIH	12/Mar/2005	Specialised Equipment
	(Ref: 134) Test object for panoramic dental x-ray Routine QA of dental panoramic x-ray units is severely limited due to the complexity of the unit and the difficulties involved in set up procedures and tolerance setting. This device provides a light, easy to use solution for dental surgeries and hospitals to routinely calibrate their x-ray units, thereby saving costs associated with external contractors.	Medipex Ltd	12/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 135) Active indicator marking for single-use medical devices This technology was developed for single-use medical devices as an indicator of sterile integrity of medical products and as a system to indicate time of expiry after opening of appropriate medicinal preparations.	Ventures for Health	12/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 136) Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair This solution incorporates aspects of biosorbable polymers and ultrasonic technology to create a device that reduces surgical trauma whilst maintaining secure ligament reconstruction. Commercial partners and/or licensees are being sought.	Ventures for Health	12/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 124) Cancer diagnostic for colo-rectal cancer	Medipex Ltd	11/Mar/2005	Diagnostics
	(Ref: 125) Biomimetic Urothelium A novel human in vitro biomimetic urothelium (the lining of the bladder and urethra)	Medipex Ltd	11/Mar/2005	Diagnostics
None	(Ref: 126) HMDS solution Cancer diagnostic that fixes cell permeability	Medipex Ltd	11/Mar/2005	Diagnostics
None	(Ref: 117) Health needs assessment system for school nurses	Medipex Ltd	09/Mar/2005	Training Aids
	(Ref: 118) Interactive radiotherapy training IRPS Interactive radiotherapy training aid for radiotherapy staff, students and trainee doctors	Medipex Ltd	09/Mar/2005	Training Aids
	(Ref: 119) Image viewing control LOGIN QA procedure for viewing quality of filmless X-rays & digital media	Medipex Ltd	09/Mar/2005	Health Services/Best Practice
	(Ref: 120) Digital Frame of Reference DFOR Software procedure to assess digital image manipulation	Medipex Ltd	09/Mar/2005	Health Services/Best Practice
None	(Ref: 121) High resolution dose meter for small field dosimetry (IMRT)	Medipex Ltd	09/Mar/2005	Specialised Equipment
None	(Ref: 122) Radiological software package Radiological software package that provides admin and audit trail for handling radioactive isotopes	Medipex Ltd	09/Mar/2005	Software/IT
None	(Ref: 123) Leodisol Novel solution for storing transplant organs	Medipex Ltd	09/Mar/2005	Diagnostics
	(Ref: 107) Motorised drip stand Motorised drip stand to aid lifting of heavy drip bags.	Medipex Ltd	06/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 108) Cervical Probe Battery powered mini inductance probe which identifies cancerous and pre-malignant cells	Medipex Ltd	06/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 109) Fire safety training simulator	Medipex Ltd	06/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 110) Electronic patient wobble detector/rehabilitation aid	Medipex Ltd	06/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 111) Training device for colo-rectal surgery	Medipex Ltd	06/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 112) Digital diary for urological problems	Medipex Ltd	06/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 113) Electronic Patient Questionnaire - EPAQ A touch screen electronic patient electronic questionnaire for pre-consultation evaluation of women''s health symptoms	Medipex Ltd	06/Mar/2005	Software/IT
None	(Ref: 114) Intranet based software training aid for haematology scientists	Medipex Ltd	06/Mar/2005	Software/IT
None	(Ref: 115) Staff training and CPD and HR software compliant with National Framework	Medipex Ltd	06/Mar/2005	Software/IT
	(Ref: 105) Hip Spica The Hip Spica product is an innovative operating table accessory. It is intended for use in the casting of patients during hip surgery or for any other conditions where there is a risk of subluxation of the hip and casting is indicated. It provides maximum access for a plaster cast to be constructed around the hips by the surgeon and permits radiographs to be taken to ensure correct positioning of a cast. We are seeking to identify a commercial partner who is a manufacturer of operating tables interested in exploiting this idea or for licensing of the manufacturing rights to a sub-contract fabricator.	Medipex Ltd	03/Mar/2005	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 102) Body Image Assessment Software Idea:The technology and associated software available is a computerised technique developed for the assessment and treatment of body image disturbance. It provides clinicians and researchers with a high quality adjunct to clinical formulation/intervention and has the potential to make a substantive contribution to the pursuit of clinical and research excellence within the varied fields of body image assessment. Benefits & Features:This software is unique and has generated much praise from peers working in the field of body image and also from the media. It has been described as a “significant breakthrough in body image treatment and research” and being “the most clinically relevant of the (body assessment) methods to date” by two eminent workers in the field of body image assessment who have purchased the software.	TrusTECH	12/Aug/2004	Software/IT
	(Ref: 101) PDA Auditing Software Clinical audit involves careful and regular monitoring of patient outcomes. It currently involves retrospectively reviewing patient case notes. The limitations of this process are that: it is slow, the information held on hospital data systems is frequently inaccurate, the data is often incomplete, and retrieving and then correcting the information takes a great deal of time. Analysing clinical outcomes in relation to predicted risk of morbidity and mortality is increasingly important but data collection is extremely laborious and therefore not routinely undertaken. A consultant surgeon has written a database using relational database software (RDS), for use on a personal digital assistant (PDA). The database allows patient details, surgical procedure and outcomes following surgery to be recorded and analysed. It also allows outcomes to be related to predicted risk using established methodology. It has been used successfully in the consultant’s department for about a year and ha... [View complete information]	TrusTECH	04/Aug/2004	Software/IT
	(Ref: 99) Electronic Patient Monitoring System The Technology Hospitals are increasingly admitting patients with complex conditions, in need of frequent bed-side monitoring. With rising pressures on staff, there is a demand to provide more efficient and effective patient care and also to manage clinical risk. Continuing advancements in telemedicine and the IT strategy for the NHS provide an opportunity for hospitals to implement modern tools to manage patients more efficiently. Doctors specialising in critical care medicine in an NHS Trust have proposed an Electronic Patient Monitoring System capable of monitoring a patient’s physiological parameters and so avoid patient deterioration and aid clinical risk management. The Advantages Integrates real-time data on patient’s physiological parameters with diagnostic data Measures a comprehensive range of parameters for electronic assessment A direct alert mechanism for senior medical staff Aids prioritisation of patient care Improves clinical risk management The P... [View complete information]	TrusTECH	26/Jul/2004	Specialised Equipment
	(Ref: 98) Global Mental Health Assessment Tool The Technology A consultant psychiatrist in a Merseyside Trust has developed a standardised assessment tool for diagnosing the mental health status of patients. The tool has been developed using statistical research-based methodology previously not applied to a clinical setting. The resulting tool may be used by healthcare professionals, without particular experience in mental health assessment, to provide a non-subjective, accurate analysis of mental health status in patients thus allowing for prompter, more appropriate treatment. The Advantages Standardised tool Unique in providing a global assessment of mental health Different versions developed for primary, secondary care The Potential Market The primary care tool has been developed for use in all GP surgeries and clinics. In addition, it may be used as an educational tool for trainee mental health professionals. The Opportunities The consultant has carried out an evaluation study of the GP version of thi... [View complete information]	TrusTECH	26/Jul/2004	Diagnostics
	(Ref: 97) Wonderbroth The Technology Patients exhibiting signs of food poisoning are screened for the presence of certain bacteria in their faeces. Bacteria that cause gastrointestinal infection include Salmonella and Shigella. Several stages of incubation are required to analyse the type(s) of bacteria infecting stools. The Wonder Broth is a unique mixture that allows the early separation of probable positives from negative samples. It incorporates an indicator and by the use of colour changes after incubation in the broth mixture, samples required for further testing can be easily distinguished. The Advantages Saves one day on current analysis time Reduces amount of staff time and consumables spent on analysis Results are available sooner The Potential Market This broth mixture can be effectively used in hospital and public health laboratories across the UK and worldwide. The Opportunities We are currently seeking for a commercial partner from a suitable company to manufacture... [View complete information]	TrusTECH	26/Jul/2004	Diagnostics
	(Ref: 96) Visual Field Testing The Technology Visual field mapping is used in the diagnosis and monitoring of a number of conditions including glaucoma, macular degeneration, brain/eye tumours and retinal detachment. Traditional methods involve the use of an instrument that maps visual field by measuring the response of patients to peripheral light stimuli whilst focusing on a fixed reference point of light. This requires the patient to concentrate for several minutes at a time, which is especially difficult in children, the elderly or those with a visual impairment. A team of leading consultant ophthalmologists in a Merseyside Trust have developed an internet-based tool for measuring visual field. The tool uses a novel methodology for measuring visual field and does not require the patient to concentrate on a fixed point of light. Measurements may be obtained more frequently and potentially with greater accuracy than standard methods. The Advantages Inexpensive web-based alternative to expensive... [View complete information]	TrusTECH	26/Jul/2004	Diagnostics
	(Ref: 92) Surgical Training Model Idea:An Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Surgeon in a large teaching hospital in the North West of England, has developed a new training model for teaching several procedures carried out during maxillofacial/plastic surgery.	TrusTECH	12/Jul/2004	Training Aids
	(Ref: 91) Ventilator Algorithm to assess Endotracheal Tube Fit A new algorithm has been developed to quantify uncuffed Endotracheal tube(ET) tube fit in infants and children using leak resistance. Currently the judgement of ET tube fit is subjective and if not optimal can lead to laryngeal problems after surgery as well as effecting the quality of ventilation. This innovation will provide an objective measure of ET tube fit that might help with the empirical slection fo endo-tracheal tube size in infacnts.	NHS Innovations North	16/Jun/2004	Software/IT
None	(Ref: 90) Software proceedure to assess image manipulation This new invention (The DFOR) is a graphical icon that allows the viewer to quickly determine what digital processing has been performed on an image and assess potential distortions of detail. It is intended for use with digital images where image interpretation is paramount.	Medipex Ltd	02/Jun/2004	Software/IT
	(Ref: 89) Leg Protection Stockings for Elderly A nurse from North Tyneside has come up with an idea for a new product, which would be highly useful for 65-90 year olds who are at risk from developing leg injuries/ulcers. The idea involves producing knee-high socks or tights impregnated with a hydrocolloid type material at the regions of most risk of injury. This would provide protection from trauma and reduce injuries, leading to reduced chronic leg problems. The product could be sold “over the counter” and would have the cosmetic appearance of stockings, but its rubbery texture offers a much greater degree of protection and therapeutic advantages.	NHS Innovations North	25/May/2004	Therapeutics
None	(Ref: 84) Flow disturbances in cardiovascular MR Idea:Enhanced visualisation of valvular heart disease by MRI Problem addressed:Reduced aquisition time for echo sequences enabling the removal of respiratory motion artifacts in magnetic resonance imaging Benefits & Features:Reduced scannning times enable the breath-hold technique to be used, resulting in clear images for the diagnosis of valvular heart disease.	Ventures for Health	10/Nov/2003	Diagnostics
None	(Ref: 83) 3-way tap. Idea:3-way tap anchorage Problem addressed:The new device prevents ''pull'' on the catheter needle during movement that is painful for the patient. Benefits & Features:This low-cost device is more comfortable for the patient to wear and has additional tamper-proof safety features.	Ventures for Health	10/Nov/2003	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 82) Epidrum Idea:The Epidrum is a device that indicates to the anaesthetist when the needle has entered the epidural space prior to administration of an anaesthetic. Problem addressed:The device ensures correct placement of the epidural injection leading to increased efficiency in pain management and a reduction in the side effects that result from inaccurate procedures. Benefits & Features:Development work on the device is completed and CE registration is ongoing. Approval has been granted for multi-centre trials of the device, which should be available for sale in Summer 2004. It is expected that this simple visual indicator device will also facilitate training in the use of the procedure.	Ventures for Health	10/Nov/2003	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 81) Collapsible tray Hospital beds currently in use commonly have trays attached that are useful for holding small items. These trays are not suitable for carrying large items of electronic equipment. This product relates to a collapsible tray adapted for mounting on a bed such that heavy electronic equipment such as heart rate monitors may be placed on the tray and transported along with the bed. It would be inconvenient if the tray were mounted permanently on the bed. To this end the tray has been designed to be collapsible and, as such, can be folded away when not in use. The project team are currently using early prototypes in clinical situations within BLT. The product performs well under these conditions and potential partners are being sought for further product development, manufacture and marketing.	ELIH	10/Nov/2003	Specialised Equipment
None	(Ref: 80) Fracture reduction apparatus A fracture reduction apparatus has been developed within BLT. The apparatus has application in the reduction of displaced fractures of the forearm. Displaced fractures of the forearm are generally reduced using manual manipulation ie a doctor or nurse pulling on the hand of the patient to move the parts of the bone relative to one another. This is a painful procedure that often requires the patient to be anaesthetised. The fracture reduction apparatus allows for traction to be used to reduce the fracture gradually, without anaesthetic and with significantly less patient trauma. Furthermore, the apparatus is easily assembled by one trained operator reducing the number of personnel needed to reduce a fracture of this type. The apparatus has been in use in a clinical setting over a number of years and has performed well under these conditions.	ELIH	10/Nov/2003	Specialised Equipment
None	(Ref: 79) Laparoscopic tool device Laparoscopic surgical techniques are becoming increasingly common. The world laparoscopy market was valued at $1.24 billion in 2001. A laparoscopic tool device that prevents internal organ injury during surgery has been developed by an inventor from Homerton University Hospital. A stainless steel prototype device has been developed and tested. Detailed market analysis has been generated and a letter of support from a world-renowned laparoscopic surgeon has been obtained.	ELIH	10/Nov/2003	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 78) Anti bacterial applications of nitric oxide delivery system Recent scientific developments have resulted in novel methods for the controlled generation and delivery of nitric oxide. Such systems may be delivered either externally or internally to the living organism, thereby eliciting a very wide range of biological actions. A system jointly developed at Barts and The London NHS Trust (BLT) and The Queen Mary Medical School (QMU), when applied to the skin, causes a dramatic and sustained increase in blood flow while also causing a very potent anti-microbial effect leading to positive influences on wound healing. In particular the system has demonstrated effectiveness against antibiotic resistant bacteria. When combined with an additional pharmaceutical, the system facilitates delivery of the drug into the skin or target organ/site. There are a wide range of applications for the NO generation and delivery system, for example, as a treatment for MRSA, COPD, ARDS and allergic lung disease.	ELIH	10/Nov/2003	Therapeutics
	(Ref: 71) Deceased Transport System Idea:The mortuary of a hospital in the north west region has identified a need for improvements in the transport of deceased patients. Problem addressed:Equipment has been designed for transporting deceased patients from a hospital ward to the mortuary department, taking into account the dignity of the deceased, manual handling issues, control of infection, and acceptability to staff and visitors. Benefits & Features:Dignity of deceased. Improved manual handling. Easy to clean and disinfect. Storage for personal property and documents.	TrusTECH	17/Oct/2003	Specialised Equipment
	(Ref: 70) Standing Aid Idea:Many people using wheelchairs such as stroke sufferers and paraplegics, find it difficult to stand-up out of the chair unaided for activities such as washing, going to the toilet or getting into bed. This means that they often require two carers to help them move – one to support them and one to help them with their task. A nurse has developed a standing aid that will facilitate this process. Benefits & Features:Simple to use.Can be used with patients who have only strength in one arm.Adjustable to the size of the patient. Requires less house space than a hoist. Cheaper to produce than a hoist. Reduces the number of carers required (e.g. from 2 to 1). Increase the independency of people with private activities. May increase the number of people able to live in their own homes, rather than moving into a nursing home.	TrusTECH	17/Oct/2003	Disability Aids
	(Ref: 68) Endotracheal Tube Introducer Idea: Endotracheal (ET) intubation can be difficult in some patients due to physiological abnormalities, trauma or simply due to normal anatomical variations. Introducers are designed to facilitate placement of the ET tube and include stylets, which mould ET tubes into shape prior to placement and gum elastic bougies, over which the ET tube can be “railroaded” once it has been accurately placed. The present technology describes a new, alternative introducer which improves safety and increases the chance of a successful, rapid intubation over either the existing stylet or bougie-type introducer. A prototype has been developed and is currently in use at a Northwest NHS Trust by the consultant anaesthesiologist who invented it. Benefits & Features:Increases safety – placement easier, faster. Reduces risk of trauma and hypoxia. Compatible with existing ET tubes and ventilation systems.	TrusTECH	13/Oct/2003	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 67) Oedema Milker Device Idea:This medical device has been constructed to reduce finger swelling after digit surgery or injury. After being placed on the finger, the device inverts as it rolls down the finger, increasing pressure as it goes, thus milking the oedema out of the finger. This device is an excellent aid in the rehabilitation of patients for the reduction of digit swelling quickly and effectively. Problem addressed:Accidental or surgical trauma to the body generally gives rise to swelling. Because finger joints are surrounded by a tendon and ligament only and, therefore , lack the hydromechanical action of muscle to reduce swelling of the finger joint, such joints are particularly prone to prolonged swelling. Benefits & Features:The device is portable. Can be used by patients in their own time for rehabilitation purposes. Does not require medical staff to apply it. It can be used repeatedly by the same patient. Comes in various sizes and is disposable.	TrusTECH	13/Oct/2003	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 66) Transintimal Recanalisation Device Idea:Balloon angioplasty is a widely used technique for treating arterial stenosis or occlusion in patients suffering from atherosclerosis. The technology is a transintimal recanalisation device to ensure passage of the guidewire. Problem addressed:Technical failure occurs in 20% of these cases, often due to failed guidewire passage. Failed guidewire passage is most commonly due to sub-intimal passage and the inability to pass the guidewire through the intima and into the distal lumen. Benefits & Features:Overcomes intimal resistance to guidewire passage. Flexible. Easily assembled.	TrusTECH	13/Oct/2003	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 64) Tear Function Index Idea:Current methods of measuring tear function index rely on addition of a dye to the eye, followed by application of a filter strip to the lower eye lid (Schirmer''s Test). The tear function index is then calculated from the dilution of dye on the filter strip (Test Clearance Rate) and the Schirmer''s value. A new and more reliable product has now been developed which does not require a dye to be placed into the eye. Benefits & Features: Easy to use. Allows standardisation of measurement. No inter-individual variation in response to treatment. Sterilisable components. Useful in screening for dry eye syndrome. Tear function index easy to calculate. The technology can be used in ophthalmic units, GP''s surgeries and high street opticians.	TrusTECH	13/Oct/2003	Diagnostics
	(Ref: 63) CPAP Mask Idea: The use of non-invasive respiratory support is increasing. An alternative method to traditional intubation is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) in which air/oxygen is applied under pressure to the airway to aid breathing and improve lung function. Problem addressed: Long term use of standard CPAP masks leads to discomfort in patients and can cause pressure sores in extreme cases. Benefits & Features: Improved patient comfort. Less claustrophobic for patients Inexpensive alternative to current masks.	TrusTECH	10/Oct/2003	Medical Devices
	(Ref: 62) Orthodontic Appliance Alignment Device Idea: The invention relates to the alignment of orthodontic expansion screws in removable orthodontic appliances and the forming and alignment of block faces on Twin Block functional orthodontic appliances. Problem addressed: The device allows the alignment of screws by inexperienced operators, accurate alignment in relation to various anatomical features and accurate alignment of block faces in relation to midline expansion screws on Twin Block functional appliances. Benefits & Features: Allows accurate alignment by semi-skilled operators. Reduces amount of time required to prepare functional appliances.	TrusTECH	10/Oct/2003	Medical Devices
None	(Ref: 51) Sterilisation Cabinet A conceptual idea for a cabinet that will clean glass ware. Features and Benefits: The cleaning of glass ware within pharmacy departments would be made more efficient, and consistent. A liquid cleaning solution would be circulated throughout the cabinet for re-use and passed through a filter to remove contaminants.	NHS Innovations North	15/Jan/2003	Laboratory Apparatus
None	(Ref: 46) Vancomycin Resistance Testing Media Culture medium detecting vancomycin-resistant strains of bacteria. Features and Benefits: Accurate and rapid testing for vancomycin-resistant strains of bacteria. Increased sensitivity over the gold standard E-test.	NHS Innovations North	15/Jan/2003	Microbiology
	(Ref: 42) Multi pen Mouthpiece- Disability Aid Mouthheld writing aid. Features and Benefits:Series of concentric holes accomodates a range of pen sizes. Effective writing aid for people with disabilities e.g. cerebral palsy sufferers.	NHS Innovations North	15/Jan/2003	Disability Aids
	(Ref: 36) Gate for doorways or stairs Gate for doorways and stairwells. Features and Benefits:The gate is supplied as a kit of parts with sufficient in-built adjustment to fit most environments.	NHS Innovations North	14/Jan/2003	Disability Aids
	(Ref: 35) Folding Handrail A folding handrail. Features and Benefits: Telescopic handrail can be set to any width, and is easy to install. Guides users away from danger.	NHS Innovations North	14/Jan/2003	Disability Aids
	(Ref: 33) Cerebral Palsy Communication Aid- head mounted laser pointer Head mounted communication aid. Problem Identified:Cerebral palsy sufferers and people with impaired communication skills find it difficult to converse with others effectively. Features & Benefits: A light weight, unobtrusive and compact device. Laser pointer controlled by head movements.	NHS Innovations North	14/Jan/2003	Disability Aids
	(Ref: 32) Cerebral Palsy Aid- Grab bar Grab bar with an integrated switch. Problem Identified:Children suffering from cerebral palsy have difficulty using switches. Features & Benefits: Incorporates a plastic tube handle which the user can slide along the bar and use to activate a switch. The user can operate the switch without releasing the grab bar.	NHS Innovations North	14/Jan/2003	Disability Aids
None	(Ref: 29) Bench Seat for Manual Wheelchair Fold away child seat designed to fit into the tray socket of a manual wheelchair. Features & Benefits:Gives a stable seating position for a child (1-4 years old). The seat folds flat for storage and is used with castor outriggers and anti-tip levers to increase stability.	NHS Innovations North	14/Jan/2003	Disability Aids
	(Ref: 17) A&E Display Screen A flat screen computer designed to work with Datascope patient monitors. Provides an alternative display platform for Datascope®Passport monitors. Features & Benefits: Wall-mountable, Vital signs data is easy to view,Storage of vital signs data for later review.	NHS Innovations North	13/Jan/2003	Software/IT

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