Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is embarking on trials for a groundbreaking laser-activated antimicrobial treatment to combat infections in patients undergoing brain surgery.
The Steriwave technology utilizes a light-activated agent to swiftly eliminate pathogens in the nose, a common source of post-surgery infections.
By applying this agent to the nostrils and activating it with laser light, pathogens are rapidly destroyed in a process lasting just five minutes, offering a potential antibiotic-free solution.
The first pilot surgery at Leeds Teaching Hospitals is set for mid-August for patients undergoing brain and spine tumor removal surgeries.
Steriwave’s quick and efficient application makes it a viable option for emergency surgeries, reducing the reliance on antibiotics and aligning with UK government’s antimicrobial resistance action plan.
Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust has already adopted Steriwave for hip and knee surgery patients, with the treatment now available on the NHS Supply Chain.
