Use of olefin block copolymer TPE enhances vacuum delivery system for newborns

26-Aug-08

The replacement of TPE with DYNALLOY™ olefin block copolymer thermoplastic elastomers (OBC TPEs) from GLS, in self-contained Mystic® II vacuum delivery system has enhanced CooperSurgical's vacuum delivery system. The Mystic II M-Style® System is needed to give an extra backing to the newborns and it features a single-use device specifically designed for occiput posterior (OP) and other presentations requiring a higher pull force, comprising of a malleable mushroom-shaped cup that is inserted vaginally and placed on the baby's head. The obstetrician can maneuver the head by applying mild vacuum pressure at the time of delivery, potentially avoiding the need for a Caesarian section. As per the authorities at CooperSurgical Inc, the very prime factor for vacuum assist delivery system was of safety; however, reliability, ease of use and performance were also considered. Analyzing CooperSurgical's need for softness for patient comfort and protection, enhanced bonding to the LDPE vacuum tube for greater pull force, custom color; and the ability to be sterilized with ethylene oxide (EtO) gas; GLS recommended DYNALLOY OBC compounds, which are based on INFUSE™ OBC technology licensed from The Dow Chemical Company. GLS reformulated the DYNALLOY OBC TPE to provide the benefits of exceptional chemical bonding to LDPE (as evident in the CooperSurgical's test); predictable, consistent and repeatable pull force; shore A hardness of 46 for softness and flexibility; custom color-matching and sterilization with ethylene oxide.