A revolutionary new treatment that prevents healthcare acquired infections (HCAIs) - including MRSA and other superbugs - has been launched in the UK.
Steriwave destroys bacteria that lives in patients’ noses and is proven to reduce the incidence of infection, especially among high-risk patients. As well as preventing life-threatening infections, it also helps to decrease mortality rates and improve health outcomes for patients. For hospitals, it can deliver lower costs, shorter hospital stays, and reduced transmission of pathogens between patients and staff.1,2
Talking about the benefits of this new treatment, Caterina Galani, Global Product Manager at Mölnlycke commented: “There has been a huge focus on preventing HCAIs in the NHS in recent years, and the introduction of Steriwave offers a new tool in this ongoing battle. It is quick, painless, and does not involve the use of antibiotics, which is an important factor as we try to prevent antimicrobial resistance, a major healthcare challenge of the future.”
A recent peer-reviewed study has recommended that Steriwave3 should be added to the standard of care. Dr John Street, Director of Complex Spine Surgery at the University of British Columbia in Canada said: “In my opinion, there have been very few, if any, other initiatives that had such a profound and lasting impact on the health of British Columbians in the past 10 years.”
Steriwave is the result of a partnership between Mölnlycke Health Care and Ondine Biomedical and uses advanced technology through nasal photo-disinfection to disinfect the nasal passage rapidly and thoroughly. The treatment is non-antibiotic and quick to administer, destroying bacteria, viruses and funghi within 5 minutes. Steriwave has been clinically proven to significantly reduce the risk of HCAIs without contributing to the global issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).4
Steriwave is already in use as part of pilot programmes at leading NHS Trusts including Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, and Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust. As a result of this full launch, it is now available through the NHS Supply Chain, ensuring availability across England and Wales.
References
1. Study demonstrates a 3.65-times lower risk of infection (P=0.00026), a 42% SSI reduction (P=0.0004) and a 94% compliance - Bryce et al. J Hosp Infect, 2014
2. Study demonstrated a 67% spine SSI reduction (P<0.001), and $2.49 million estimated annual cost savings - Moskven et al. Can J Surg, 2023
3. Ibid.
4. New research investigates use of Steriwave in ICUs, The Clinical Services Journal, September 2024. Found at https://www.clinicalservicesjournal.com/story/46104/new-research-investigates-use-of-steriwave-in-icus
