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Medtech Business Review | Friday, August 25, 2023
Among the key advantages of Flexible Packaging for Medical Supplies are its sterilization-friendliness, its ability to withstand rigorous shipping, and its balance between practicality and protection.
FREMONT, CA: An unsung hero of the supply chain has been given a rare spotlight amid the Coronavirus pandemic that is the packaging manufacturers. Since several months ago, the packaging line operators have been producing flexible packaging materials to meet the nationwide requirement for Coronavirus test kits and other medical supplies.
The challenge has been met by individuals and companies along the supply chain, giving medical suppliers pause to ponder lessons learned. A positive outcome has been a resurgence of appreciation and recognition for flexible packaging in the medical industry.
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The benefits of flexible packaging for medical supplies are noted below:
Sterilization-friendly: In order for medical supply products to be considered for use, they must be delivered sterile, so packaging design is just as important as product design. Sterilization agents for medical supplies include ethylene oxide (ETO) and gamma radiation. Flexible packaging has evolved over time to withstand both of these agents. With flexible packaging's unique breathability, it fits well with the process of flushing ETO into the packaging and removing it. Material that can pass through gamma sterilization without becoming brittle or yellow is not required to be breathable. Both of those boxes are checked by flexible packaging.
Packaging products that are compatible with sterilization methods are also important. As an example, gamma sterilization would destroy the inner workings of a pacemaker, whereas ETO is less rigorous and more suitable.
Achieves a balance between protection and practicality: The use of flexible packaging helps manufacturers strike a balance between durability and ease of use. Syringes, swabs, and other items should remain sterile until opened without creating difficulties for the end user, who is often under great stress. Nurses and technicians often need to open devices while wearing gloves quickly and easily. Laying out a clinical procedure leaves no room for error. The packaging will be opened differently depending on whether the device is for an operating room, a clinic, or an ambulance.
It is important to consider how the end-user will access medical supplies when developing packaging. For instance, syringes. In a less chaotic clinical setting, an easy puncture point is not needed. Whatever the case may be, the packaging must be foolproof in any case.
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