Medline Introduces First Biodegradable Surgical Drape
In response to a growing trend in the healthcare industry to reduce waste and establish environmentally responsible healthcare, Medline Industries, Inc. today introduced the industry's first biodegradable surgical drape made almost entirely from renewable sources. Following more than two years in development, the "EcoDrape™" is 96 percent biodegradable and meets the Association for Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) level 4 protection standards in the critical areas.
"We believe that being 'green' is a critical part of being successful," said Frank Czajka, president of Medline's Disposable Surgical Gown and Drape Division. "It's a commitment to our business, our customers and the future of the planet. It is important that facilities that have embraced "green" initiatives and made the commitment to reduce their impact on the environment have a choice in products that can help them meet their sustainability goals."
The EcoDrape is made almost entirely from natural fibers -- without dyes, chemical binders or fluorochemicals. The EcoDrape will also biodegrade in five months in landfill conditions.
According to HCWH (Health Care Without Harm), a single medical center produces an average of six tons of waste everyday. The Association for Operating Room Nurses (AORN) says a large portion of the waste is generated from the operating room. According to AORN, "The volume of waste generated through energy and water consumption...significantly affects the environment and the global economy."
Surgical drapes are used to cover the patient during a surgical procedure (but leaving the incision area exposed) to reduce the risk of infection. The EcoDrape is offered in a number of sizes and surgical packs for use in a variety of minor surgical procedures, including laparotomy, eye procedures and central line.
The EcoDrape joins Medline's portfolio of more than 500 environmentally friendly products that are recyclable, utilize recycled materials, are biodegradable or made from renewable sources, require fewer chemicals when used, use soy-based ingredients instead of petro-chemicals, reduce or eliminate the use of dyes or bleaches, and reduce the amount of energy required to launder.
Show, Tell, Teach: Elevating EVS Training Through Cognitive Science and Performance Coaching
April 25th 2025Training EVS workers for hygiene excellence demands more than manuals—it requires active engagement, motor skills coaching, and teach-back techniques to reduce HAIs and improve patient outcomes.
The Rise of Disposable Products in Health Care Cleaning and Linens
April 25th 2025Health care-associated infections are driving a shift toward disposable microfiber cloths, mop pads, and curtains—offering infection prevention, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in one-time-use solutions.
Phage Therapy’s Future: Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance With Precision Viruses
April 24th 2025Bacteriophage therapy presents a promising alternative to antibiotics, especially as antimicrobial resistance continues to increase. Dr. Ran Nir-Paz discusses its potential, challenges, and future applications in this technology.
