Economic and health benefits from use of the HemoSep auto transfusion system to reduce blood transfusions and related complications during open-heart surgery

Narrative

A low-cost, efficient, blood cell salvage technology (HemoSep) has resulted from research carried out at Strathclyde between 2008 and 2013. The novel technology has been patented and licensed to Brightwake Ltd., who manufacture the device in the UK and market it through a global distribution network. HemoSep has now been used in clinical centres across Europe, North America, and South Africa since its commercial launch in late 2012. The use of the device has been shown to reduce the need for donor blood transfusions in open-heart surgical patients by at least 1 unit (450 ml) with an associated reduction in transfusion related complications such as heightened inflammatory response and bleeding. The reduction in blood transfusions associated with the use of HemoSep has a considerable cost benefit to healthcare providers (in North America blood costs up to $1600 per unit). In addition, commercialisation of HemoSep has led to the creation of new manufacturing, marketing and sales jobs in the UK and overseas.

Impact status	Open
Category of impact	Economic and commerce, Health and welfare - new products, guidelines and services