New research published in the European Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EJOG) has demonstrated reduction of obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) using Episcissor-60 at London’s Royal Free and Barnet Hospitals. 

Data from 2,566 births was analysed, with a measure of OASIS rates before and after implementation of Episcissors-60. Results showed OASIS reduction in high-risk operative vaginal deliveries from 6.3% to 0.6%, and in normal deliveries from 6.6% to 0%.

In both the Royal Free and Barnet Hospitals, it was found to be safer to deliver in first vaginal births with an episiotomy using Episcissors-60 that without it.

About Episcissors-60

Episcissors-60 are patented fixed angle scissors that take away human error in estimating episiotomy angles during childbirth. This innovation reduces the risk of complications associated with standard practice episiotomies which can cause OASIS and have a devastating impact on the quality of a new mother’s life.

Episcissors-60 was selected to join the first NIA cohort in 2015. This patient safety innovation is available for Trusts to purchase free of charge until 2019 via NHS England’s Innovation and Technology Tariff (ITT).

Read the research report in EJOG here

Find out more about Episcissors-60

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