THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) has developed canister bags lined with super-absorbent material containing an effective disinfectant for the safe handling and disposal of respiratory secretions. The bag named AcryloSorb will be a relief for health workers who come across several ICU patients during this time of COVID pandemic.

'In the developed system, suction canisters, disposable spit bags have been designed with "AcryloSorb" technology. They are lined inside with the AcryloSorb material. The AcryloSorb suction canisters will collect the liquid respiratory secretions from ICU patients or those with copious secretions treated in the wards. The container will be spill-proof and can be sealed after use, making it safe and fit for disposal through the usual incineration system for biomedical wastes. Sealable and disposable AcryloSorb spit bags are provided for solidifying the sputum and saliva of ambulant patients with respiratory infections, which can then be incinerated.' says a press statement released by the institute.

The canister bag has been developed by Dr Manju S, Dr Manoj Komath, Dr Asha Kishore and Dr Ajay Prasad Hrishi. The canister bags will be manufactured at an industrial scale Romsons Scientific and Surgical Private Limited in Uttar Pradesh.