Standard Textile, a company servicing the healthcare industry, has launched Surgitex – Surgical Textile Solutions, and debuted to attendees at AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo held at Nashville from April 6-10, 2019. Surgitex is a comprehensive programme to help healthcare facilities realise maximum benefits of reusable surgical products.

The Surgitex system demonstrates the company’s consultative approach. A team of engineers, clinicians, and technical processing experts team together to collect data, analyse costs, and conduct trials. Implementation of Surgitex consists of staff and clinical training and support as well as quarterly programme reviews and quantitative reporting, said the company in a media statement.

Compared to disposable products, reusable linens offer research-supported energy, water, carbon footprint, waste, and instrument recovery savings, as well as improved comfort and protective properties.

“One of the greatest challenges we face as healthcare providers in perioperative services is moving toward a more sustainable, environmentally responsible culture,” said Peg Fox, national director of surgical services (MSN, BSN, RN) at Standard Textile. “We rely on evidence-based data and guidance from professional organisations like the Association of Perioperative Nursing to transition to more sustainable surgical practices.”

“We are excited about the recent hiring of Fox, who has an extensive perioperative background in large health systems in Chicago and in the greater Cincinnati marketplace, and who has utilised both reusable and disposable surgical products,” said John Wintz, group vice president at Standard Textile. “Fox and her team are taking a very logical approach to assist healthcare facilities determine the cost effectiveness of reusable surgical textiles as part of a solution in making the OR arena more cost effective, safe, and sustainable.”

“The amount of waste generated in an operating room can be a daunting problem to solve, and I learned it cannot be solved alone,” said Fox. “Surgitex was conceptualised to help nurses, physicians, material management, and other partners reduce waste, decrease costs, and provide quality care in the safest environment for our patients and healthcare providers.” (PC)