WPS partners with VIASYS® to develop world’s first non-invasive ventilator for premature babies

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  •  Unique infant respiratory system eliminates need for intubation  - significantly reducing distress to babies
  •  WPS circuit boards power intelligent controls that automatically deliver the right levels of support to a baby

Wilson Process Systems (WPS), a major contract manufacturer of printed circuit board (PCB) assemblies, has partnered with SensorMedics, part of the VIASYS® Healthcare group, to develop a ground-breaking new respiratory system, designed especially for premature babies. The new Infant Flow® SiPAP™ unit is the first of its kind to offer non-invasive support for infants, which eliminates the need for intubation and significantly reduces distress to help recovery. The system features intelligent controls that monitor how much support the infant needs and automatically adjusts if the condition changes.

The first prototype of the Infant Flow® SiPAP™ was developed in 1990, and since then the unit has helped over half a million premature babies. At present VIASYS® sells around 400 units per year and currently has a 90 per cent penetration rate in UK hospitals. This figure is set to rise with the latest version of the unit which now provides completely non-invasive respiratory support.

“Earlier infant ventilator systems were often quite distressing for both babies and their families, but because our new unit prevents intubation, it helps make the ordeal as painless as possible,” commented a spokesperson for VIASYS® Healthcare. “We are pleased that we are able to produce the Infant Flow® SiPAP™ unit with one of the most respected printed circuit board manufacturers in the industry. Since partnering with WPS we have been able to continuously progress the development of the unit according to medical standards making it the leading model of its kind.”

WPS first started helping to develop the innovative unit in 2002 and is responsible for producing the internal circuit boards, which include a variety of single, double-sided and multi-layered assemblies. The company is also responsible for electro-mechanical assembly of the units and conducts rigorous testing on the machines, according to high medical standards, prior to them being shipped to the US for distribution.

Nick Jones, Sales Director of WPS said: “Healthcare is a key growth area for WPS. Vital systems such as the new Infant Flow® SiPAP™ frequently demand 100 per cent fail proof technology and smart controls that support both patients and healthcare workers. This is where our industry-leading circuit boards come in - they have been fully tested to comply with medical standards to ensure that the babies are cared for in the best possible way, whilst at the same time enabling the unit to give the right amount of support to encourage the infants to breathe for themselves.”

The new Infant Flow® SiPAP™ unit prevents irritation and soreness occurring in small babies. Previous ventilation systems often led to adverse health conditions for the infants and, whilst some infants will need the support of a conventional ventilator system, those with less serious conditions can benefit from a less traumatic experience with the use of the non-invasive Infant Flow® SiPAP™. For more information please visit www.viasyshealthcare.com

About VIASYS®
VIASYS® Healthcare Inc. is a global market leader in health - care technology - a distinction that is built on a solid history of innovation, superior product performance, and a commitment to customer service. VIASYS® Healthcare comprises of many well-established companies that are each recognised for market leadership. These companies specialise in developing, manufacturing, marketing, and servicing high-technology medical devices that are used in respiratory care, neurology, vascular medicine, critical care, and the medical and surgical product markets. Their products are used to assist physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiopulmonary, digestive, neurological, respiratory, and vascular disorders for neonatal, pediatric, and adult patients. Customers of VIASYS® Healthcare include hospitals, alternate care sites, clinical laboratories, and private physicians in over 100 countries.  www.viasyshealthcare.com

About Wilson Process Systems
Wilson Process Systems is a contract manufacturer of PCB assemblies, electronic sub-assemblies and full turnkey electro-mechanical assemblies that include in-circuit and full functional testing. It specialises in the auto-placement of surface mount, conventional leaded (through-hole) and mixed technology components using single-sided, double-sided, PTH (plated-through-hole) and multi-layer printed circuit boards.

To maintain its worldwide competitiveness, Wilson Process Systems is continually investing in the latest technology. This equipment, coupled with approvals to ISO9001:2000 standard as well as those of major international Manufacturers, has ensured a consistent growth, putting it amongst the top employers in Hastings. Wilson Process Limited now employs over 100 people and has a turnover approaching £6 million. www.wps.co.uk

For more information please contact:

Nick Jones
Wilson Process Systems
Tel: 01424 722222
Email: nickj@wps.co.uk

Paul Dixon
VIASYS®
Tel: 0208 539 9932
Email: Paul.Dixon@eme-med.co.uk

Louise Sambells
Targetwire
Tel: 01780 721433
Email: lsambells@targetwire.com


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