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Tualatin Valley Fire &
Rescue and Portland, OR-based
HemCon, Inc.
an industry leader in
hemorrhage control technology, announced a pilot
program that allows TVF&R firefighter/EMTs to utilize HemConŽ Bandages
for life-threatening bleeding
situations. The pilot program begins in June 2005 and
marks the first time a civilian fire department will be
using the specialty bandage.
The
HemConŽ Bandage has been used extensively by the US
Military in Afghanistan and Iraq to successfully treat severe, life-threatening hemorrhages. The HemConŽ
Bandage is a pliable, sterile, chitosan dressing that is
capable of stopping severe external hemorrhaging in less
than two minutes. It can be worn for up to 48 hours and
is easily removed with water. Research shows no risk to
individuals with shellfish allergies.
TVF&R responds to almost
23,000 dispatched medical incidents. Approximately 800
of these incidents involve soft-tissue trauma that may
warrant the use of this specialized bandage, including:
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Gunshot and
Knife Wounds
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Lacerations
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Avulsions
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Severe
Abrasions
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TVF&R has begun training
its 300 emergency responders to ensure proper use
and application of the bandage. Data on product
usage in the field will be collected throughout the
duration of the program.
The strategic
partnership with TVF&R further demonstrates HemCon's
move towards the civilian market, as this is the
first pilot program with a US fire/EMS provider. "It
is a pleasure to work with Tualatin Valley Fire &
Rescue on our first pilot program in the civilian
market," said HemCon President and CEO John W.
Morgan. "This partnership is not only the first step
towards a more consumer-focused strategy, it's also
an opportunity to share this life-saving innovation
with the local community, the citizens of Oregon."
"Tualatin Valley Fire &
Rescue prides itself in continuing to provide the
finest in emergency medical care and services," said
TVF&R EMS Chief Mark Stevens. "We constantly strive
to incorporate cutting-edge technologies, like the
HemConŽ Bandage, to increase the safety and survival
of accident victims." |
