Improved absorbent pad for surgical instruments

Challenge

The customer wanted to upgrade an absorbent pad for surgical instruments so that no more fibres came loose during or after sterilisation, which could potentially end up on the instruments.

Our approach

We took the existing product properties as a starting point and developed an alternative in cooperation with our supplier. Thanks to our precision technology, we can produce the sheets tailored to the millimetre. Three improved prototypes were tested in hospitals before the final product was implemented.

Results

The new solution provided significant benefits:

• No more fibres that come loose during or after sterilisation.
• 20% weight savings in the product.
• Improved product properties such as higher tear resistance and absorbency.
• 100% recyclable material, in contrast to the old product that had to be disposed of as waste.
• Product customization: All desired sizes can now be produced, including sizes that were not possible before.
• Clear color coding for the end user to recognize the correct side.
• 10% cost savings thanks to the optimized product.

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