Prior information notice
This notice is for prior information only
Section I: Contracting
authority
I.1) Name and addresses
NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership-Procurement Services (hosted by Velindre University NHS Trust)
Procurement Services, Cardiff and Vale University Local Health Board, Woodlands House, 2nd Floor, Maes-Y-Coed Road
Cardiff
CF14 4HH
UK
Contact person: Sarah Yellen
Telephone: +44 02921508273
E-mail: sarah.yellen@wales.nhs.uk
NUTS: UK
Internet address(es)
Main address: http://nwssp.nhs.wales/ourservices/procurement-services/
Address of the buyer profile: https://www.sell2wales.gov.wales/search/Search_AuthProfile.aspx?ID=AA0221
I.3) Communication
Additional information can be obtained from the abovementioned address
I.4) Type of the contracting authority
Body governed by public law
I.5) Main activity
Health
Section II: Object
II.1) Scope of the procurement
II.1.1) Title
ENT MSK Challenge Opportunity
Reference number: SP18
II.1.2) Main CPV code
33692000
II.1.3) Type of contract
Supplies
II.1.4) Short description
Ear surgery has been performed using an operating microscope since the 1950s, but improvements in endoscope and video technology have made Endoscopic Ear Surgery (EES) a viable alternative. An ear endoscope for EES allows doctors to perform complex operations on the tiny, delicate structures in the middle ear. This method is less invasive than the traditional way to perform an ear surgery, which is to make an incision behind the ear. The doctor then uses a straight endoscope to see into the ear.
EES procedures last on average for 60 to 90 minutes, but can be as long as 180 minutes. These prolonged periods of holding the endoscope up, whilst performing very fine, controlled movements with the instruments within a very small, delicate organ causes significant musculoskeletal stress. It is possible that these conditions, which are particular to EES, are related to the higher levels of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in otological surgeons.
Reducing the musculoskeletal load through better work practices could reduce the time taken for surgery, reduce staff levels of MSDs and associated sickness, thereby improving workflow. They may also increase the number of operations possible and reduce the time under anaesthesia for patients.
Challenge details
We are looking to identify, develop and demonstrate near market ready innovative solutions that could:
Improve ergonomics for surgeons ensuring equality and benefits for all;
Improve ergonomics for both right and left handed surgeons, when performing surgery;
Reduce time spent holding an unsupported endoscope during EES;
Reduce surgery times;
Reduce MSDs in ENT surgeons;
Reduce sickness of ENT surgeons;
Improve self-reported discomfort levels of ENT surgeons after performing EES;
Meet infection prevention control standards; and
Provide a cost effective and sustainable solution.
Out of Scope
Replacement of current endoscope equipment or theatre beds;
Single use solutions.
We need ideas that can be rapidly developed and tested with potential to be scaled and used across the UK over the coming months
II.1.5) Estimated total value
Value excluding VAT:
100 000.00
GBP
II.1.6) Information about lots
This contract is divided into lots:
No
II.2) Description
II.2.2) Additional CPV code(s)
33692000
II.2.3) Place of performance
NUTS code:
UKL
II.2.4) Description of the procurement
Challenge phases structure
Phase 1: Development and testing – We are looking to fund up to 5 projects up to a value of 20,000 inclusive of VAT each for Phase 1.
Please note any adoption and implementation of a solution from this competition would be subject of a separate, possible competitive, procurement exercise. This competition does not cover the purchase of any solution although we may choose to investigate and explore innovative procurement routes as part of this challenge.
The total funding available for the competition can change. The funders have the right to:
adjust the provisional funding allocation; and
apply a ‘portfolio’ approach.
Briefing Event
A briefing event was held on 30 November 2022 and the recording of the event can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/W9MAdAazSeE
II.2.14) Additional information
Further information
For more information on this competition, visit: Simply Do
For any enquiries about this competition e-mail: SBRI.COE@wales.nhs.uk
II.3) Estimated date of publication of contract notice:
01/02/2023
Section IV: Procedure
IV.1) Description
IV.1.8) Information about Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)
The procurement is covered by the Government Procurement Agreement:
No
Section VI: Complementary information
VI.3) Additional information
Briefing Event
A briefing event was held on 30 November 2022 and the recording of the event can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/W9MAdAazSeE
Further information
For more information on this competition, visit: Simply Do
For any enquiries about this competition e-mail: SBRI.COE@wales.nhs.uk
NOTE: To register your interest in this notice and obtain any additional information please visit the Sell2Wales Web Site at http://www.sell2wales.gov.wales/Search/Search_Switch.aspx?ID=127713.
(WA Ref:127713)
VI.5) Date of dispatch of this notice
22/12/2022