A NEW 3D printed Covid-19 testing swab which can collect sufficient viral material from the back of the nose - without need of a throat swab - is now being manufactured in Scotland.
The nasopharynx 3D printed swabs provide a less intrusive experience, cut testing time, reduce anxiety, and minimise discomfort for patients.
The Medical Device Manufacturing Centre (MDMC) and the Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service at Scottish Enterprise have worked with Paisley-based company Abergower 3D Ltd, to help manufacture the new design.
Once used, the swabs can be processed at labs including Lighthouse in Glasgow.
Robin Prior, managing director of Abergower, said: “The advantages of using 3D printing technology to rapidly design, develop and launch a highly effective product to meet the challenge of the worldwide pandemic has been demonstrated through this collaboration.
“As the UK’s first approved manufacturer of this product, we see strong future potential in this emerging technology. It is rewarding to bring hi-tech manufacturing capability to Scotland and to build a sustainable and valued contribution to the Scottish economy going forward.
“We have worked closely with our partners to achieve the successful manufacture of a 3D produced medical device that is ground-breaking in its design and testing capability.
“We have adapted the design conceived in the US and developed this product specifically for the UK and European market.
"We see this as a solid foundation for our future plans in the medical device marketplace. We are currently working with partners in Europe and further afield to offer this to a wider global audience.”
The unique helix designed tip of the swab and its tiny features guarantee that sufficient material is collected to provide a definitive result.
The unique configuration of the tip of the swab allows capillary retention of the liquid as well as preventing the liquid from escaping the tip. The amount of viral load is further increased because the swab is non-absorbent unlike most cotton varieties.
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