Prismasil
The Prismasil development team
A UK-based company has been recognised by medical industry leaders for its expertise in silicone rubber at the recent Medtech World Awards.
Prismasil Silicones was awarded the top accolade in the ‘Exhibitor Innovations Competition’ - for its technical development of a cooling cap to bring relief to cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, reducing the risk of hair-loss during treatment. (Read more here)
Primasil Silicones worked collaboratively with its academic partner, the University of Huddersfield, to develop the cooling cap for Paxman, the global leading manufacturer of scalp cooling equipment for chemotherapy patients.
This recent innovation was designed to improve the effectiveness and availability of the Paxman cooling cap, which was first developed in the late 1990s with help from Primasil.
Chemotherapy affects rapidly dividing cells, which includes hair follicles. Its unintended consequence can be atrophy of the hair root bulb. The Paxman scalp cooling system essentially consists of a compact refrigeration system connected to a lightweight silicone rubber cap. By lowering the scalp temperature immediately before, after and during treatment, blood flow to the follicles is reduced, preventing or minimising damage.
“We are absolutely delighted to have won this award, it is such an honour to receive recognition in an industry where product innovation really does matter,” explained Primasil Medical Division Manager, Caroline Herdman.
“Silicone rubber is a remarkable material, and with subtle alterations to its chemistry, we can develop the ideal material to meet specific needs. When the right minds are brought together our potential for creating, improving and transforming medical devices is almost limitless.
“Our late Chairman Stan Wheeler, who was fundamental in the development of the cooling cap, would be proud to know his team had received such an accolade,” she concluded.
Richard Paxman, Managing Director at Paxman, added: “Primasil Silicone’s experience in the medical industry and its understanding of quality standards and certifications has made them an invaluable partner to us, in both developing and improving the cooling cap. We’re thrilled Primasil have won this award, and for our cooling cap to receive such recognition.”
