A life changing silicone adhesive that prevents abdominal stomas from leaking and provides a range of benefits for patients and healthcare professionals, has been awarded the prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise.
Privately-owned Trio Healthcare was presented the award under the Innovation category for its breakthrough patented silicone technology, which is improving the lives of ostomates around the world. It is the UK’s most prestigious business accolade which recognises the benefits offered to ostomates and their unique needs.
Abdominal stomas are surgically created intestinal openings which are a result of treating conditions such as colorectal and bladder cancer, Crohn’s or colitis. The stoma outputs body waste such as faeces and urine which is then collected in an odour-proof bag. At one time or another, all ostomates will suffer from leakage and therefore damaged to the skin, which has a dramatic impact on their social life and psychological wellbeing.
To combat this, Trio has developed a secure adhesive known as Trio Responsive Silicone, that can be used around the stoma to provide a seal and an alternative to hydrocolloid. The company’s R&D team focused on using a non-hydrocolloid technology in a bid to develop their innovation using silicone polymers.
By modifying the chemical make-up of the silicone formulation, Trio has developed a secure but comfortable product that allows the skin to breathe normally, even perspire, while maintaining a secure connection. The patented formulation leaves no residue and its waterproof nature prevents absorption of any faeces or urine providing a complete barrier, which allows the skin to naturally heal underneath.
The development of the technology - which is manufactured in house - has enabled Trio to launch a range of silicone-based accessory products in an industry dominated by hydrocolloid. These products are seen as a precursor to the natural next phase of ostomy products coming out of Trio’s pipeline. The company is currently in the development phase of a new ostomy system to complete the range.
Lloyd Pearce, managing director from Trio, said: “We are delighted to win such a prestigious award for our contribution to ostomy care. Due to the stigma and embarrassment associated with body waste and bag leakage, a person’s social life and well-being is dependent on the ostomy adhesive and bag’s performance.
“Too many people around the world were suffering from leakage and irritated skin, so as a company we have made it our mission to provide an alternative solution. Our products offer reassurance and comfort, so the wearer can get on with their everyday lives without fear of sore skin.”
The Queen’s Awards are presented each year by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on her birthday, 21 April, on the advice of the Prime Minister, assisted by an advisory committee comprising representatives of Government, industry, commerce and the trade unions. The company will attend a reception at Buckingham Palace in June, hosted by HRH Prince of Wales.
This is the second time Trio Healthcare has been the recipient of a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. In 2011 the company was awarded the Queen’s Award - International Trade. It has have offices in both Buckinghamshire and North Yorkshire.
