PDE Degree Show

LEADING EDGE

The Problem
Electrosurgery provides an efficient and effective means to cutting and coagulating body tissue. It is used in 80% of open surgery procedures worldwide, however has an appalling history of safety issues. In the UK there are over 100 reports per year of injury to staff and patients through the use of electrosurgery. Many more going undetected until the injury has worsened and can result in life threatening infections.

The Solution
LEADING EDGE offers a unique and innovative solution to this problem. By the removal of the primary cause of injury, the patient return electrode, and passing the current over a localised area of tissue, Leading Edge removes the risk of potentially life threatening burns to patients and staff.

The LEADING EDGE Electrosurgery Pencil, not only dramatically reduces the safety implications to staff and patients, but offers increased usability and efficient surgical smoke evacuation. This has been achieved through close collaboration with Surgeons and Theatre Staff focusing on their needs.


My Transition
With a comprehensive appreciation of the design process from research through to detail design, I have the ability to tackle a variety of design issues from a range of industries. I aim to make the transition to pursue a career in Product Design Engineering, beginning with the exciting opportunity to further the development LEADING EDGE.