Vidacare Power Driver Developed For Military Medics
WASHINGTON—Vidacare, a medical device company, has introduced a next-generation power-driver to their line of vascular access products for military medical use. The development of the G3 Power Driver was made possible by a $750,000 Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase II Award given by the U.S. Air Force. Vidacare used the grant to perform upgrades to the current device that will further allow military medics to provide life-saving care in the field.
The current EZ-IO system is an intraosseous (IO) device manufactured by Vidacare that is used by the U.S. armed forces in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations. With its patented, bevel-tipped needle sets, the system allows for quick and controlled access to the interior of the bone, for infusion of vital fluids and medications in seconds. The lithium-battery powered drill and patented needle set allows medics to gain immediate vascular access when conventional IV access is difficult or impossible.
The newly developed G3 Power Driver is lightweight, rugged, compact and air-worthy, enabling the practical use of reliable IO access in military operations. It is capable of at least 500 insertions, has a shelf-life of 10 years. The new version is tactically black in color while the older version is red. All of the G3 needle sets are 15-gauge with standard Luer-lock connectors. The new version is currently available for ordering.
"The combat environment demands compact, extended-wear devices. The G3 Power Driver was specifically designed with the military medic in mind. The product system allows reliable vascular access in less than perfect conditions," said Phil Faris, CEO of Vidacare in a statement. "The current device has proven to meet the needs of the military in the tactical, transport or hospital environments and the redesigned G3 will be of further value."
Vidacare will continue to offer the lightweight Manual and Sternal EZ-IO Needle Sets, for immediate vascular access in austere field conditions. Provided in packs weighing less than 1.6 ounces each, the needle sets can be inserted in less than 30 seconds.
To ensure medics maintain their critical vascular access skills, Vidacare has developed a training program geared toward the military. The hands-on program includes training kits identical to those used in the field, realistic mannequins, instructional CDs and a comprehensive Web site for access to further information and FAQs. For more information visit www.vidacare.com.
