Chattanooga, Tennessee Patent of the Year – 2024/2025
Variamed LLC has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for its innovation in surgical workspace design. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 11883212, titled ‘Surgical instrument table and drape therefor’, introduces a tiered surgical table paired with a custom-fitted drape that enhances sterility and efficiency in operating rooms.
Maintaining a sterile environment during surgery is critical. Traditional methods of draping multi-tiered instrument tables can be cumbersome and prone to contamination. Variamed’s solution addresses these challenges by integrating a two-tiered table with a specially designed drape that fits securely over both levels, minimizing gaps and potential exposure.
The drape features upper and lower panels connected by a vertical step panel, conforming precisely to the table’s structure. It includes integrated polyethylene basin recesses that align with apertures in the table, allowing for secure placement of waste receptacles. Additionally, the drape incorporates strategically placed pockets for organizing surgical tools and supplies, streamlining access during procedures.
A notable feature is the sterile barrier attached to the drape. This barrier can be deployed over the instrument surfaces to protect them when not in immediate use, then easily removed to provide access as needed. This design simplifies the draping process, reduces setup time, and enhances infection control measures.
Variamed’s innovative approach to surgical table design exemplifies its commitment to improving operating room safety and functionality, offering a practical solution that meets the evolving needs of healthcare professionals.