Success hots up for new medtech Hilotherapy UK
BUSINESS is hotting up for a Midlands-based medical company as its technology helps to keep hospital patients’ injuries cool.
Hilotherapy UK, based at the Venture Centre at the University of Warwick Science Park, is targeting increased sales of its Hilotherm precision-controlled thermal healing technology.
The firm is the UK distributor for a German company, which developed the technology to lower the temperature of damaged tissue by sending cool water from a standalone device to a ‘cuff’ which is placed on the affected area of the body.
The temperature of the cuff remains constant and means it is much more effective than simply placing ice on the patient. It is proven to cut recovery times from both elective and urgent surgery, and reduces the level of painkilling drugs, such as morphine.
The German manufacturer holds 23 international patents on the technology and Hilotherapy UK is the only company licensed to sell the product in the UK and Ireland.
University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire is among the first NHS hospitals to buy the technology along with Chelsea & Westminster, Gloucester, Sheffield, York, Leeds and Bradford.
A host of private hospitals have also invested in the product and it is also attracting interest from sports clubs around the country too.
Tony Ley, of Hilotherapy UK, said: “The technology was first developed eight years ago but, because of the nature of the product, it has had to undergo strenuous clinical trials.
“The feedback is excellent and one hospital has been so impressed with the treatment that it is expanding its use of them already.”
He said the firm had opted for its base at the science park so it could tap into facilities at the university.
Karen Aston, manager of the Venture Centre, said: “This is another great example of some of the mould-breaking technology associated with the science park.
“Hilotherapy UK has a fascinating product which is already making inroads in the medical market and that looks set to continue.”
