Next-Gen Far UV-C irradiation technology: Mitigating Surgical Site and Wound Infection Risk

XCMR is developing an innovative new device that uses Far UV-C to inactivate viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens in wounds and surgical sites.á Surgical site infection (SSI) is a major complication following surgery, often leading to a need for intensive care, prolonged hospitalizations, and readmission.á These concerns are amplified during expeditionary and combat operations, where common battlefield injuries result in a high frequency of wound infections.á These infections, which recent studies have estimated to be as high as 34%, are associated with substantial morbidity and impact on airmen long after initial hospitalization. In fact, infection remains the greatest risk to life and restoration of function in the casualty who survives beyond the first few hours after injury. Multiple studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Far UV-C for inactivation of a wide range of microorganisms.á However, conventional UVC exposure (typically in the 254-280 nm region) is harmful to people and animals, specifically damaging skin cells and corneas of the eye. Unlike conventional UVC, Far UV-C cannot penetrate deep into human skin or eye tissues due to strong absorption making it safe for human use, but delivers enough energy to extensively damage nucleic acids (DNA/RNA) and proteins, leading to rapid inactivation of viruses and bacteria.á The development of XCMRĺs xIP device will improve patient outcomes, increase airmen medical readiness, reduce hospital stay length, and increase patient survivability.