HTD – Medical Device Design Focused on the User

When developing medical devices its always important to put the user first. With continence devices this is even more critical. People with chronic conditions need to use these devices on a daily basis and they should not feel like they are performing a medical procedure every time. For them it should just feel like part of their daily healthcare routine.

Health Tech Design combine their approach to the development of consumer products with the requirements of the medical devices market. Partnering with organisations, healthcare professionals and innovators to identify products and sectors to improve or develop products and bring them to market. Their experience is extremely diverse, they are experts in the continence device sector and more broadly in single-use devices as well as surgical and electronic equipment.

But they’re not just a product development company, they really understand the medical business. From regulatory affairs to reimbursement and international distribution, they’ve built medical device companies in the past and they apply this expertise to help grow businesses.

When developing the Aquaflush trans-anal irrigation system attention was first focussed into the part of the product which is inserted into the body, the cone. 

The process started by working with Healthcare Professionals (HCP’s) to ensure they understood the clinical requirements as well as digesting the feedback they receive from users of existing devices.

Through an extensive process of design, prototyping and testing the design form and features were refined and various materials tested to give the best possible result.

The final solution is widely regarded as the most comfortable cone available in the market. The unique design of the tip of the cone ensured it was comfortable to insert. Eyelets were also incorporated into the sides of the cone tip, this ensured that if the outlet at the tip of the cone became blocked then the water would still be instilled. The material choice was also important for function and feel. After testing various options silicone was chosen and given a very fine textured finish. Described as being “as smooth as silk” by users it can be used with or without lubrication.

This user-focussed approach to medical device design can be applied in many sectors. The user should always be the focus, trying to improve their quality of life and bring them dignity.

Find out more about the work of HTD here: https://healthtechdesign.co.uk/

Discover more about Healthcare Technology Design Ltd:

Health Tech Design combine their approach to the development of consumer products with the requirements of the medical devices market. Partnering with organisations, healthcare professionals and innovators to identify products and sectors to improve or develop products and bring them to market. Their experience is extremely diverse, they are experts in the continence device sector and more broadly in single-use devices as well as surgical and electronic equipment.