Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Joseph Abasi-Abasi
Published on 2024-03-08 00:32:25
A delegation from HemoClear, a company based in the Netherlands, recently visited the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) to engage with medical experts on the functionalities of autologous blood transfusion equipment. The meeting, which took place in the UCTH conference room, focused on the benefits of autologous blood transfusion as the preferred method for treating complications associated with donor blood transfusions according to medical guidelines.
Vincent Franssen, the CEO of HemoClear, explained that the product was developed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. He mentioned that the testing phase of the product in Nigeria is being funded by the French Fund for Innovation and Development (FID) and will span over one year. The pilot program aims to collect and analyze data to ensure a smooth implementation of the product in Nigerian hospitals.
The autologous blood transfusion equipment developed by HemoClear allows for the collection of clean blood components when a patient is losing blood. The device filters out unwanted substances and ensures that the collected blood is fresh and optimal in pH and temperature. This reduces the dependence on donor blood, minimizes side effects, and accelerates patient recovery with fewer complications.
Dion Osemwengie, the Global Business Development Manager at HemoClear, highlighted the device’s ability to flush the blood to eliminate harmful substances before reinfusing it. She expressed her excitement about collaborating with the medical experts in Calabar to introduce the technology in Nigeria and set an example for other healthcare centers in the country.
Professor Etim Ekanem, a renowned expert in Obstetrics and Gynecology at UCTH, shared insights into the hospital’s proactive approach to blood conservative management programs. He mentioned the hospital’s committee on blood management and its efforts to educate and engage with the international community through seminars, workshops, and publications on Blood Conservative Management.
Dr. Nathaniel Usoro, a Consultant surgeon at UCTH, acknowledged the availability of blood salvage devices but emphasized their costliness. He pointed out that autologous blood transfusion devices are more suitable for the Nigerian context as they require minimal technology and electricity. This makes them more accessible and practical for healthcare facilities in the country.
Overall, the collaboration between HemoClear and UCTH signifies a significant step towards improving blood transfusion practices in Nigeria. By introducing innovative autologous blood transfusion equipment and promoting blood conservative management programs, the partnership aims to enhance patient care, reduce complications, and enhance the overall healthcare system in the country.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
