Medical Device Developed at OhioHealth Receives High Marks from EMS Professionals

Linebacker, a tapeless system for securing IV tubing, developed by OhioHealth anesthesiologist, David Sybert, has been named a “Top Product” in the 2009 annual review published by EMS Professional.  According to the editors of EMS Professional, Linebacker is superior to the traditional use of tape in holding IVs in place for a number of reasons.  When compared to the use of tape, Linebacker significantly reduces the number of accidental dislodgements, which in turn helps protect both patients and caregivers from an increased potential for blood borne infections during IV re-insertion.  In addition, studies have shown that 74 percent of tape roles are contaminated with bacteria thus creating a vector for infection. In addition to enhanced care, Linebacker also offers superior patient comfort.

Dr. Sybert heads SyberMed, the Central Ohio startup launched to develop Linebacker.  In 2007, the company received a $50,000 TechGenesis grant which funded market validation and other startup activities.  The TechColumbus TechGenesis fund is made possible through the Ohio Third Frontier and local partners including OhioHealth. 

SyberMed has recently signed a distribution agreement for the Llinebacker system with Cardinal Health.

For more details, see the review on page 36 of the EMS Professional.