Handwerkszeug

Maike Grubert

Januar / January - 2018

Hochschule Hannover

Description

Handwerkszeug is a reusable instrument series for surgical use. With this, the way is taken in the right direction - towards reusable products instead of the continuous use of cheap one-way-instruments. The design and disassembly of the instruments in just a few steps allow accelerated cleaning with an optimized result.

What is the Topic?

Reusable instruments are expensive due to complex cleaning and sterilisation processes. However, the widely used disposable instruments also have several disadvantages. They are not only unsuitable for reasons of wasting resources and controversial production in Asia, but are also poorly processed and handled. For a flawless surgical procedure, both sterility and intuitive, reliable operation of the necessary tools are of the greatest importance for both, patient and surgeon. The optimization of reusable instruments solves various problems - in terms of ergonomics, reliability, economy and ecology. Cleaning is simplified, accelerated and the result improved. This makes Handwerkszeug more attractive than single-use-products.

Why does it look like this?

The instruments can be easily distinguished from other instruments by their clear and high-quality form language. Shape and lines as well as material thickness are adapted to the specific guidance and operation of the user, the surgeon. A certain weight for precise handling has also been taken into account. An important design feature is the functional connector: a unique selling point that describes the range of instruments as a high-quality product line. A recurring angle also characterizes the functional areas of the entire product range, which also give devices without a joint (tweezer and scalpel handle) a sense of belonging.

What is special?

The surgeon is a craftsman and the patient depends on his precise work. This work should be supported with quality tools to promote successful operations. But, as in so many areas, cost reasons eclipse the need for quality materials. The use of reusable instruments is initially very expensive due to the fact that they have to be prepared. Particularly costly are the pre-cleaning of surfaces that are difficult to access. In addition, there are high insurance costs that a hospital has to bear when using reusable-instruments. This is because errors can happen during cleaning, which can lead to a risk of infection. This is where the tools of the trade come in. Cleaning will be accelerated and optimized in the future and handling and results improved. The costs for the use of reusable instruments are decreasing and approaching those for working with disposable instruments.This enables doctors to with high-quality instruments.

What is new?

The main component of the optimization is given by the newly developed joint. This optimizes and accelerates the reprocessing of the instruments, a very time-consuming and therefore expensive process, and reduces the risk of infection. They can be assembled and disassembled without tools in just a few steps. This makes all surfaces easily accessible for cleaning. The costs for the use of reusable instruments are falling and approaching those for working with disposable instruments. This gives medical personnel the advantage of being able to work with high-quality instruments that are not seriously more expensive.