Gambro is launching an innovative PD-protector that besides being an effective dressing for the exit site, allows inspection of the exit site, fix the catheter and immobilizes the extension line; all in one single application. The CATHcarry is designed based on the knowledge from in-depth interviews with experienced nurses and patients to better meet patients' needs.

CATHcarry is an all-in-one product making exit site care in PD much more effective. This innovation is believed to improve Quality of Life and treatment compliance.

The CATHcarry has a unique transparent window allowing patients and nurses to inspect the exit site at any time - without removing the dressing. In addition CATHcarry is made of a thin, waterproof and breathable material which brings noticeable benefits to PD patients such as more freedom to shower. CATHcarry is simple to apply and remove without the need for additional adhesives to maintain the extension line. The catheter is tightly fixed in the CATHcarry pre-cut catheter slot.

In a prospective open study on 22 patients, CATHcarry was described as easy to apply and remove and the opportunity to shower with CATHcarry was a clinical and qualitative advantage. Also the majority of the study population expressed the will to continue with CATHcarry when commercially available1.

"Gambro wants to improve renal care and therefore I feel extremely happy to present CATHcarry designed with users needs in mind" says Michael Lewis, President Europe Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

Gambro will launch CATHcarry in Europe starting from beginning of October 2007 enlarging then to other Gambro PD markets in the world.

For more information about Gambro's PD offerings or CATHcarry please contact your local Gambro sales representative. Contact details can be found at the Gambro web site.

About Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)

Peritoneal Dialysis is a very simple and effective end stage renal replacement therapy that is performed by the patient at home. It differs from Hemodialysis in that the blood is treated without being removed from the body. Instead the dialysis fluid is introduced to the patient's abdominal cavity through a catheter placed in the peritoneal cavity where the peritoneum acts as the filter.

About exit site care

The place on the abdomen, where the catheter leaves the skin is called the exit site. The catheter is kept in place permanently, as long as it functions well. The patient extension line is attached to the catheter to enable connection to the bags of dialysis fluid.
Once the exit site is healed, the patient performs the exit site care, with a primary goal being to prevent exit site infections.
In a broad sense, exit site care includes:

- Daily observation of the exit site for early identification and treatment of exit site related problems
- Regular cleansing of the exit site
- Anchoring or immobilizing the catheter and patient extension line to prevent from pulling and trauma.

Reference:

1. Grandjean J. et al. CATHcarry, a new hypoallergenic waterproof exit site care product protects the exit site during showers. P-66. at EuRoPD Helsinki, 2007.

Gambro is a global medical technology company and a leader in developing and supplying products, therapies and services for In-center Care and Home Care dialysis, as well as for blood purification in Intensive Care units. For decades, Gambro has led the market in renal care development and has been first to market with many innovations. By designing and delivering complete solutions to dialysis clinics and intensive care units, Gambro offers not just improved treatment quality, but also improved efficiency.

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