UK hospitals expand use of Steriwave to reduce surgical infections

Published 14/07/2025, 07:04
UK hospitals expand use of Steriwave to reduce surgical infections

LONDON/VANCOUVER - Ondine Biomedical Inc. (AIM:OBI) reported Monday that its Steriwave light-activated antimicrobial therapy is seeing increased adoption across various surgical specialties in UK and Canadian hospitals.

The nasal decolonization treatment is now being routinely implemented before major cardiac, orthopedic, neurosurgical, ENT, spinal, and cosmetic procedures as a measure to reduce surgical site infections (SSIs).

According to data cited in the company’s press release, SSIs contribute to approximately 3% mortality and extend hospital stays by nearly 10 additional days. A study in Alberta, Canada found that complex SSIs following hip and knee replacements can cost hospitals up to CA$95,000 per case.

The company noted that up to 69% of SSIs originate from pathogens colonizing the nose, making nasal decolonization an important preventive measure recommended by health authorities including the CDC, WHO, and SHEA.

Steriwave’s treatment uses a photosensitive agent activated by red light to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the nasal passages. The five-minute procedure provides immediate effect without fostering antimicrobial resistance, according to the company.

"Steriwave offers a fast-acting, resistance-free alternative that is effective across nasal pathogens," said Carolyn Cross, CEO of Ondine Biomedical, in the statement.

The technology is currently used in more than half of Canada’s ten largest hospitals and several NHS Trusts in the UK. Ondine is conducting a Phase 3 clinical trial in the United States with HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA) to secure FDA marketing approval.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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