September 13, 2023
Genome BC has expanded its initial investment of $1.13 million in BC based Arbutus Medical Inc., with an additional infusion of $368,000 through its Industry Innovation fund (I2).
Arbutus Medical’s journey towards innovative healthcare solutions began with the TrakPak® – a comprehensive single use procedure kit that streamlines surgical procedures, improves efficiency and reduces costs. Genome BC’s investment, announced earlier this year, marked an important step in redefining surgical workflows with the commercialization of this landmark product. The TrakPak empowers surgeons with a pre-sterilized, all-in-one kit for skeletal traction procedures, saving valuable time and resources while enhancing patient care.
Building on this success, Arbutus Medical introduced the QuikBow™. This is a simplified version of the conventional Kirschner Bow (K-bow) device, otherwise known as the common traction bow, which is used by orthopedic surgeons to apply skeletal traction for the temporary stabilization of the femoral shaft, hip, pelvis and other types of fractures.
Since its launch, the QuikBow has been successfully used in over 300 procedures across multiple facilities. The device, in tandem with TrakPak, is a testament to Arbutus Medical’s philosophy of “Frugal Innovation,” which not only addresses immediate challenges but also takes into consideration the financial and environmental sustainability of our health system. The QuikBow™ uses a recyclable plant-based material derived from renewable sources and the company will be piloting programs with its customers to reduce waste and carbon footprint of the device.
Arbutus Medical’s QuikBow, like TrakPak, addresses an unmet need. Whereas the conventional K-bow requires two people to work, the QuikBow only requires one person to operate. This offers a practical solution, particularly when two people aren’t always available in a busy ER or ICU.
The company brought this innovative product to market in just one year with an iterative design process guided by real-world feedback. Their patient-centered design demonstrates a holistic approach to modern healthcare challenges.
“Arbutus Medical is at the forefront of innovation in emergency surgical care,” according to Genome BC’s Executive Director, Industry Programs, Pat Brady. “This expansion of our investment underscores Genome BC’s belief in the meaningful potential of the surgical solutions Arbutus Medical is developing.”
Arbutus Medical is setting a benchmark for medical innovation and their focus on sustainability and patient-centered design is reshaping the healthcare industry for the better. Genome BC’s investment reaffirms their position as a trailblazer in the medical device industry, improving patient care and promoting environmental sustainability.
