Systagenix welcomes NHS ruling on EPA testing in wound healing

Systagenix has reacted positively to news that the NHS will be using testing for elevated protease activity (EPA) in the treatment of venous leg ulcers.

A new service specification developed by NHS commissioners, clinical experts and Department of Health officials has recommended the use of EPA-based diagnostic testing systems when treating venous leg ulcers designated as "complex".

It is the first time a national healthcare body has acknowledged the importance of testing for EPA as part of standard clinical practice for wound healing processes.

Dr Robert Snyder, Systagenix's medical director, said: "The inclusion of testing for EPA in the care pathway for venous leg ulcers by the NHS is to be applauded, as it recognises that better patient assessment can lead to improved care."

This also comes shortly after Systagenix launched its new Woundcheck Protease Status device, the world's first point-of-care diagnostic test able to detect EPA in chronic wounds.

The first sale of the new system was made last month to Brentwood Community Hospital, for use among patients with chronic wounds.