Product Spotlight: Smith & Nephew’s PICO Single-Use NPWT System

  Date of product launch/release: January 2012.

  Product description: The PICO System is a seven-day, single-use negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) device. Its innovative design has expanded the benefits of NPWT to multiple indications by offering all the effectiveness of NPWT in an off-the-shelf, canister-free system that can be used to simplify the management of open wounds.

  Product’s role in the wound care clinic: The PICO System can significantly reduce therapy costs compared to traditional negative pressure. Logistically, the PICO System eliminates asset management. There is no need to track usage or find lost pumps, minimizing the amount of capital equipment required to manage open wounds with negative pressure. In regards to efficiency, the PICO dressing is easy to apply. Simply dress, press, and go. Further, the PICO pump fits into a pocket with ease, allowing patients to continue therapy as they get back to daily activities, which helps support compliance with the therapy.

  How is the product unique? The PICO System is a canister-free device. The canister-free system is possible due to a revolutionary dressing technology that consists of four layers. The top layer allows one-way transpiration of moisture while acting as a protective outside barrier. The second layer is super-absorbent, moves exudate away from the wound, and initiates transpiration. The third layer is an airlock layer that maintains open airflow and allows even distribution of negative pressure across the dressing. The final layer is the silicon contact layer that allows fluid to pass and minimizes pain of removal.

  Are there different variations/models of the product. or are any planned? The PICO System’s dressings come in eight shapes and sizes. This reduces the amount of preparation for dressing a wound, as dressings are sized to fit varying wound types.

  Is there reimbursement for the product? There is both product reimbursement and application-service reimbursement. Product reimbursement for Medicare is available through either G0456 or G0457, depending on wound size. For commercial payers and Medicaid, the product reimbursement is available through code A9272. When seeking reimbursement for the application service of the product, for all payers it is the G0456 or G0457, depending on wound size. (It is important to note that coverage is managed by the health plan.)

  Does the product come with any add-on services? The PICO System is Smith & Nephew’s single-use, NPWT device. Smith & Nephew also offers a full line of traditional NPWT solutions as well as a full line of wound care products and biologics. Smith & Nephew is one of the most extensive wound care companies in the world, and the fastest-growing provider of NPWT worldwide.

  Does the product come with any training or educational materials? The PICO System is supported by a field sales and clinical resource team. Field teams are available for in-person or virtual inservicing. Also, there are training materials available through Smith & Nephew in online tools and webinars at www.possiblewithpico.com.

  Where is the product available for purchase? The PICO System is available for purchase through most med/surg providers.

  Contact:
    Smith & Nephew
    St. Petersburg, FL
    Phone: 727-392-1261
    Fax: 727-392-6914
    www.smith-nephew.com
    www.possiblewithpico.com

  *Trademark of Smith & Nephew. Registered US Patent & Trademark Office.