Grants and Contributions:

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Title:

Mechanical evaluation of delivery systems for non-antibiotic antimicrobial solutions

Agreement Number:

EGP

Agreement Value:

$25,000.00

Agreement Date:

Aug 23, 2017 -

Organization:

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada

Location:

Saskatchewan, CA

Reference Number:

GC-2017-Q2-00368

Agreement Type:

Grant

Report Type:

Grants and Contributions

Additional Information:

Grant or Award spanning more than one fiscal year (2017-2018 to 2018-2019).

Recipient's Legal Name:

Johnston, James (University of Saskatchewan)

Program:

Engage Grants for Universities

Program Purpose:

Hard to treat bacteria, particularly antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and associated infections impose a great burdenx000D
on the Canadian healthcare system. SterileCare Inc. produces an antibacterial alternative to antibiotics which isx000D
effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Their product, KiteLock solution, is approved Health Canada tox000D
decrease the risk of bacterial growth within catheters. To use KiteLock, users (nurses and patients) manuallyx000D
twist-off the end of a vial (which KiteLock is stored in), withdraw the solution from the vial into a disposablex000D
syringe, and then introduce the solution into the catheter. Currently, the vial is difficult to open due to thex000D
rigidity of the resin as well as the vial design. This is causing users to struggle with opening of the vial, causingx000D
fracture away from the intended break-off point, resulting in product waste and reduced market traction andx000D
credibility.x000D
The overall goal of this NSERC Engage Grant is to aid SterileCare with production issues related to theirx000D
KiteLock delivery system as well as investigate functionality and compatibility of other potential deliveryx000D
systems (specifically existing syringes and catheters). To accomplish this goal, the main objectives are to: (1)x000D
develop computational finite element models of the current vial design to identify alternate designs forx000D
appropriate tip twist-off; (2) communicate with SterileCare and the contract manufacturer of the vials tox000D
produce and evaluate alternate designs; and (3) conduct mechanical testing of standard syringes and cathetersx000D
when exposed to KiteLock solution.x000D
The outcomes of this research will mitigate end-user frustration found with KiteLock, which will lead tox000D
more hospitals adopting the product. This will lead to reduced antibiotic use and a reduction of antibioticx000D
resistance, two major health issues affecting Canadians. As well, this research will provide direction forx000D
alternate delivery systems. Further, trainees involved in this research will interact with industry and obtainx000D
training in medical device design.