Cheshire-based Bruin Biometrics (BBI) Europe Limited were winners at the annual Bionow awards.
Bruin’s handheld SEM scanner for detecting pressure ulcers was named Product of the Year at the awards, which celebrate outstanding achievements in the biomedical and life sciences sector.
The SEM scanner can detect pressure ulcers before they appear by measuring changes in the skin and tissue beneath. This helps healthcare staff choose the right intervention, such as turning more frequently, providing heel protectors or changing the surface of the bed or chair.
Bruin is supported by the Innovation Agency (the Academic Health Science Network for the North West Coast) and Health Innovation Manchester. The SEM scanner has been introduced to three trusts in the North West, including district nursing teams and renal wards. Feedback from one trust showed that in 82 per cent of patients, use of the SEM scanner changed their clinical decision making and there was a 27 per cent reduction in pressure ulcers over the course of a three month trial.
The Bionow Product of the Year Award recognises innovative products which have a significant impact upon a particular problem. The award was sponsored by the Innovation Agency, Health Innovation Manchester and Yorkshire & Humber Academic Health Science Network. Runners up were Glow New Media and Safe Steps, both based in Merseyside.
Innovation Agency chief executive Liz Mear, said: “Bruin’s SEM scanner is a product which addresses a challenging issue for the NHS. It is a unique tool and its application is helping trusts reduce costs and improve patient care. The SEM scanner is a great example of how world-class innovation in the region is enabling continually improving healthcare. I’m delighted to see Bruin recognised with this award.”
Cara Afzal, Senior Programme Development Lead at Health Innovation Manchester said: “We were delighted to see Bruin SEM Scanner receive a Bionow award. We are looking forward to continuing our work with the company and supporting the wider adoption and spread of this innovative solution.”
Photo: Awards host Phil Hammond, doctor and comedian, with Lesley Lawson and Jayne Rowley, BBI (Bruin Biometrics) Europe, and Innovation Agency chief executive Liz Mear
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