New Products and Industry News

New barrier ring offers enhanced flexibility

   Marlen Manufacturing and Development Company (Bedford, Ohio) introduced the new UltraSeal(TM) Flexible Barrier Ring. The hydrocolloid barrier will bend, stretch, and twist to almost any configuration to accommodate most stomas, regardless of size and shape, molding easily to fill in crevices and irregularities. Alcohol-free, the ring adheres well to both the body and the ostomy pouch, creating a secure seal that prevents leakage and extends pouch wear time; thus, providing the ostomate a greater confidence level. The ring also removes easily, eliminating skin irritation.

   The ring is sold in packs of 10. The barrier has a 5/8" starter hole standard, with an outside diameter of 2", and requires only one size center hole.

   For information, please call (216) 292-7060 or visit www.marlenmfg.com.

Positioning device floats the heels

   Global Medical Foam, Inc. (Ontario, Ohio), provider of the "Conforming Comfort" line of patented positioning devices, announced the development of the Heel/Arterial Device.

   Developed and designed according to AHRQ Guidelines, the device completely floats the heels. Device pressure maps out well below the 32 mm Hg required for good pressure management and offers even weight distribution to the tendonous portion of the calf. The core center provides adequate support without "bottoming out;" deep convolutions provide minimal pressure. The device is intended for patients at risk for heel ulcers as seen in peripheral arterial disease, diabetes, neuropathies, or other conditions related to pressure. Its 36" length addresses both heels, providing support and flotation without the need to purchase two products.

   For information, please call (419) 529-9354 or visit www.GlobalMedFoam.com.

New matrix represents milestone in healing

   Johnson and Johnson Wound Management (Somerville, NJ) announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared Promogran Matrix Wound Dressing as the first and only chronic wound dressing that combines oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) and collagen. The matrix dressing is indicated for the treatment of exuding wounds including, but not limited to, diabetic, venous, and pressure ulcers.

   The new matrix comprises a sterile, freeze-dried matrix composite of 45% ORC and 55% collagen. ORC is a plant material that has been chemically altered to be absorbed by the body. Collagen is a natural structural protein found in all three phases of wound healing. By binding to matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) (inflammatory enzymes that degrade proteins in various tissues), and growth factors, ORC/collagen creates a moist wound healing environment at the wound surface that is conducive to tissue granulation, epithelialization, and rapid wound healing. In the presence of exudate, the matrix transforms into a soft, conformable, biodegradable gel; thus, allowing contact with all areas of the wound.

   For more information about Johnson and Johnson Wound Management or other ETHICON divisions, visit www.advancedwoundcare.com or www.ethiconinc.com.

New single-use sponge has a cleaner and moisturizer

   Derma Sciences (Princeton, NJ) introduces Soft Wash®, an individually packaged, single-use sponge impregnated with a rinse-free, hypoallergenic soap and Aloe Vera lotion. The product enables a caregiver to provide effective and gentle clensing and moisturizing in one easy step; thus, reducing the use of linens, soaps, and moisturizers and making it a cost-effective and time-saving alternative for patient bathing. For information, please call (800) 328-2634 or visit dermasciences.com.

FDA gives go-ahead to market wound gel

   LAM Pharmaceutical Corporation (Lewiston, NY) received permission from the FDA to market LAM IPM™ Wound Gel. The gel is clear, viscous, odorless, and aqueous, principally composed of sodium hyaluronate, a derivative salt of hyaluronic acid. The product demonstrated an 88% rate of effectiveness in creating the necessary environment for wound healing in hard-to-heal leg and foot ulcers in human trials. The incidence of these types of ulcers is rapidly increasing, as baby boomers age and people live longer. Last year, 26 million ulcers were reported in the United

   States alone, of which approximately 6 million have been estimated as being chronic, difficult to heal, and requiring thousands of dollars in total treatment costs.

   The gel is indicated for over-the-counter use in minor abrasions and cuts, and for use with the supervision of a healthcare professional in exuding wounds such as leg, pressure, and diabetic ulcers, and in the management of mechanically or surgically debrided wounds.

   For further information, call (877) 526-7717 or visit www.lampharm.com.

Agreement to market matrix product signed

   Healthpoint (Fort Worth, Tex.) has signed a 20-year, worldwide agreement with Cook Biotech, Inc. to market its wound matrix product, Oasis. Based on small intestinal submucosa (SIS) technology, the product is a natural, extracellular matrix used to manage a variety of wounds by providing an environment that allows the body to heal itself.

   Under the agreement, Healthpoint initially will market the product in the United States, and shortly after, in Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

Strategic alliance covers wound care

   Spenco Medical Corporation, (Waco, Tex.) signed an exclusive strategic alliance with Fidia SpA, a manufacturer of pharmaceuticals based on hyaluronan technology. The agreement allows Spenco the exclusive distribution rights in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom to products manufactured by Fidia SpA.

   Spenco® 2nd Skin® Advanced First Aid™ products help provide the optimum level of moisture for healing to occur, offering a pattern for tissue repair for a shortened healing time. The hyaluronan formula is proven to minimize the formation of scar tissue of various wounds. This product line provides an alternative to antibiotic ointments in consumer wound care. Comfortable, long-lasting, easy to use, the product line offers the consumer a choice for treatment dependent on the wound care need.

   For additional information, visit www.spenco.com.