Ethicon

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Ethicon, Inc. is a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, one of the world's leading health care companies. Founded in 1949, Ethicon has grown to become a prominent name in the field of surgical sutures and medical devices. The company's mission is to shape the future of surgery by advancing innovation, addressing the world's most pressing healthcare issues, and improving lives every day. Ethicon's product line includes a wide range of surgical sutures, hemostats, wound closure devices, and advanced surgical instruments. These products are used in a variety of surgical procedures, including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, cardiovascular surgery, gynecology, and oncology.

History[edit | edit source]

Ethicon's history dates back to the early 20th century when George F. Merson opened a facility in Edinburgh, Scotland, to manufacture sterile sutures. This innovation marked a significant advancement in surgical procedures, leading to more successful outcomes and fewer post-operative infections. In 1949, Ethicon Suture Laboratories was established in the United States, and it quickly became a leader in the field of suturing materials and techniques. Over the years, Ethicon has expanded its portfolio to include not only sutures but also a wide range of surgical devices and technologies designed to improve patient care.

Products and Innovations[edit | edit source]

Ethicon's product portfolio is diverse, encompassing a variety of technologies designed to facilitate minimally invasive surgery, enhance patient safety, and improve clinical outcomes. Some of the key product categories include:

  • Surgical Sutures: Ethicon offers a comprehensive range of absorbable and non-absorbable sutures, including synthetic and natural options, to meet the needs of different surgical procedures.
  • Hemostats: The company provides advanced hemostatic agents and mechanical devices to help control bleeding during surgery.
  • Wound Closure Devices: Ethicon's wound closure products include skin adhesives, staplers, and closure systems that provide efficient and secure wound healing.
  • Advanced Surgical Instruments: Ethicon has developed innovative instruments for laparoscopic and open surgery, including energy devices that cut and coagulate tissue with precision.

Research and Development[edit | edit source]

Ethicon is committed to advancing surgical care by investing in research and development (R&D). The company collaborates with healthcare professionals, academic institutions, and research organizations worldwide to develop new technologies and improve existing products. Ethicon's R&D efforts focus on addressing unmet medical needs and enhancing the safety, effectiveness, and efficiency of surgical procedures.

Ethical and Social Responsibility[edit | edit source]

As a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, Ethicon adheres to a set of Credo values that emphasize responsibility to patients, healthcare providers, employees, communities, and shareholders. The company is dedicated to ethical business practices, sustainability, and philanthropy. Ethicon supports various initiatives aimed at improving global health, including programs that provide access to surgery for underserved populations.

See Also[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD