Episcissors-60 for guided mediolateral episiotomy

NICE has developed a medtech innovation briefing (MIB) on Episcissors-60 for guided mediolateral episiotomy.

The Episcissors-60 are surgical scissors used for episiotomy, and are designed to achieve a mediolateral cut at 60 degrees to the perineal midline to minimise the risk of obstetric anal sphincter injuries. One comparative study and 2 non-comparative studies comprising a total of 105 women reported that the Episcissors-60 successfully cut at the intended 60 degree episiotomy angle and produced a post-delivery suture angle between 30 and 60 degrees. One study reported high user satisfaction among obstetrics trainees using the device. Each reusable Episcissors-60 costs £400 excluding VAT.

Medtech innovation briefings provide a description of the medical technology, including its likely place in therapy, the costs of using the technology and a critical review of the strengths and weaknesses of the relevant published evidence.

Their purpose is to provide objective information on device and diagnostic technologies to aid local decision-making by clinicians, managers and procurement professionals. By making this information available, NICE helps to avoid the need for NHS organisations to produce similar information for local use.

Medtech innovation briefings are not NICE guidance. They differ in format, contain no judgement on the value of the technology and do not constitute a guidance recommendation.

MIBs are commissioned by NHS England and produced in support of the NHS 5 Year Forward View, specifically as one of a number of steps which will accelerate innovation in new treatments and diagnostics.