Sustainability of Medtronic Surgical Devices

Abstract

Background

Medical devices used in surgery have the potential to impact the environment.  While it is essential for medical devices to be accessible, of quality design & manufacture, and cost effective, they must also aim at inducing the lowest environmental impact.  Industry partners have a role in advising on end-of-life pathways and designing devices that lessen their impact on the environment.

Methods

Medtronic has multiple initiatives underway to reduce the environmental impact of its devices from design pathways to commercial programs.  We summarize a few of the key surgical programs.

Results

Surgical staplers and energy devices are critical in many commonly performed surgeries.  Medtronic’s Signia™ powered stapler has a reusable battery and can be used for 300 procedures, whereas the competitor’s powered stapler is used for one procedure.  Similarly, Medtronic developed stapler reloads such as Tri-Staple™ reinforced reload with pre-loaded buttress material that not only reduces the clinical workflow demands but also reduces packaging waste compared to competitor buttress products that are sold separately.  Medtronic’s Sonicision™ 7 cordless ultrasonic dissection device features a reusable generator and battery pack, whereas the competitors’ is single use with a large, bulky generator.  Medtronic offers a LigaSure™ vessel sealing device collections program to ensure appropriate end-of-life pathway for the device.

Conclusion

Medtronic is playing a critical role in reducing the environmental impact of its devices while meeting customers’ needs and quality expectations.