The ERGOtug Patient Transport System for wheelchairs (PTS-WC) is designed to help eliminate stress on arms, backs and shoulders and provides easy, safe transport for equipment and patients. Using the PTS-WC, operators are able to move adult and bariatric size wheelchairs with minimum effort and maximum control and safety. An attachment device provides a secure connection between wheelchair and mover during transport. The ultra compact design provides ultimate maneuverability. This ERGOtug has a load capacity up to 1,200 lbs., and a 600-watt drive motor with enough power to navigate the steepest inclines.

Bariatric instruments

Spectrum Surgical Instruments offers a full line of Bariatric Instruments. These longer-length instruments are available in many patterns with lengths of up to 18", which include Tungsten Carbide needleholders, scissors, suction tubes and more, for improved reach in bariatric patients. The instruments are made in Germany using the finest German stainless steel and backed by Spectrum’s lifetime guarantee. Spectrum also provides complete Bariatric surgical instrument repair, sharpening and restoration services. Any make, type or model of surgical instrument can be completely refurbished at their state-of-the-art National Repair Center.

The Dale Bariatric Abdominal Binder now includes an EasyGrip Strip that can be placed anywhere to secure drainage bulbs and tubing without pins or tape. This all-elastic, latex-free post-op binder evenly distributes compression to brace abdominal muscles, and features paneled construction to prevent riding, roping, and folding over. A Velcro closure opens and closes quickly and easily for inspecting the wound and changing dressings. The binder can be cut to create a hole (will not unravel) for the drainage tube prior to positioning the EasyGrip Strip for holding up to 4 drainage bulbs. The binder measures 15" W and stretches up to 94"L.

Single Patient Use Lift Slings from Alimed are a lower cost alternative to regular slings and help reduce incidence of cross-contamination. Control is achieved by issuing the sling to one patient and writing the patient’s name on the sling label. The sling is always with the patient when needed - no more hunting for slings! When the patient is discharged, simply discard the sling to help prevent cross-contamination.

The Rice Lake Summit SB-1000 Bariatric Scale provides exceptional performance in applications where typical wheelchair scales are not large enough to meet the needs of bariatric patients. The heavy-duty Summit Bariatric Scale easily and safely accommodates wheelchairs with its large platform size and easy-access ramp. To maximize safety, the scale and ramp are equipped with a non-skid rubber surface and guide rails on both sides.

Molecular CT is a new concept in integrated imaging that provides a premium imaging platform and a practical solution for shrinking healthcare budgets. Biograph mCT combines a CT with molecular capabilities, a PET scanner with unlimited capabilities in CT, and a high performance integrated imager. With a small footprint, large bore, short tunnel and extra-wide, 500-pound-capacity bed, Biograph mCT accommodates all kinds of patients – including pediatric and bariatric – comfortably and easily. Biograph mCT’s large 78 cm. bore can also help to alleviate patients’ sense of claustrophobia and allows better positioning of RTP devices, such as breast boards, and makes scanning of obese patients easier.

Winco, a U.S. manufacturer of healthcare furnishings, unveils a new 600-lb. capacity Powered Bariatric Recliner. This recliner puts comfort in the hands of the bariatric or obese patient with a pendant controller for power recline and power lift assist. The patient can get in and out of the chair and recline at different positions by him/herself, thereby eliminating patient lifting. A generous 35" wide seat with soft, high-density foam provides hours of comfort. All the electrical components are approved for medical use, including the battery backup, which insures continuous operation in an emergency. After months of field trials and input from customers, this new bariatric product compliments Winco’s newly acquired Stretchair line of bariatric products.