Reprocessing

Reprocessing Medical Devices

Repurposing “single-use” instruments, devices and equipment is known as reprocessing, and there are many benefits to using reprocessed medical devices.

Some facts about reprocessed medical devices:

• There is no compromise in resource quality or patient safety when you work with reprocessed devices
• Reprocessing directly reduces operating costs
• Reprocessing procedures adhere to sustainable, environmentally friendly practices

Surgical Directions works with physicians, nurses and perioperative leadership to define their unique opportunities for leveraging reprocessed devices

Earning Support from Surgeons

Working with hospitals and health systems over the years, we’ve found that, on average, about 30 percent of inventory has the potential to be transitioned to a reprocessed source. However, efforts to increase the use of reprocessed devices can be met with resistance from surgeons. To win their confidence, we speak from clinical experience and listen to their objections. They often don’t realize that reprocessed devices actually go through more stringent quality controls and testing than devices that are shipped directly from an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). If it comes down to it, as it occasionally will, Surgical Directions will ask them to tell the difference between original and reprocessed devices with items such as trocars, sleeves and external fixators. So far, not one surgeon has been able to.

How Reprocessed Medical Devices Can Work for Your Hospital

Surgical Directions partners with your hospital to identify opportunities for integrating reprocessed devices into your resource mix.  Our process includes peer-to peer conversations and analyzing current inventory and historical spend before making specific recommendations and introductions to qualified medical device repurposing vendors. Importantly, we also design customized training and documentation containing best practices and procedures for using and labeling reprocessed devices.