Supply Issues Bunzl and 3M Wound Closure Strips (ICN 1774)

• Suppliers Bunzl Healthcare and 3M PLC have informed us the supply issues with their Wound Closure Strips are ongoing.
• A further product code is now suspended and unavailable to order:
  • EIR201 – Wound closure strip sterile reinforced 6x100mm – Non Returnable.
• A total of 12 product codes are now affected.
• Potential indirect alternative products are available to order through our online catalogue.
• See our Downloads section to access the product listing for further information on the affected product codes and potential alternatives.
• Unfortunately, the anticipated resolution date is currently unknown, however we will update the ICN once we have further information.

• Suppliers Bunzl Healthcare and 3M PLC have informed us the supply issues with their Wound Closure Strips are on-going.
• 11 product codes are now affected.
• The supply issue is due to ongoing raw material shortages and manufacturing issues.
• One product code is now delisted and unavailable to order.
  • EIR199 – Wound closure strip sterile elastic – 25x125mm – Non Returnable.
• Potential indirect alternative products are available to order through our online catalogue.
• See our Downloads section to access the product listing for further information on the affected product codes and potential alternatives.
• Unfortunately, the anticipated resolution date is currently unknown, however we will update the ICN once we have further information.

Change:

• Suppliers Bunzl Healthcare and 3M PLC have informed us of supply issues with their Wound Closure Strips.
• There are nine product codes affected.
• The supply issue is due to ongoing raw material shortages and manufacturing issues.

Impact:          

• The affected products are currently unavailable to order.
• Bunzl Healthcare and 3M PLC wound closure strips are manufactured using fabric, which is a product of wood pulp processing.
• There is a global shortage of wood pulp and related products, which is currently adversely affecting the ability to manufacture wound closure strips.
• There are alternative suppliers of wound closure strips on the framework, and we are working with these suppliers to ensure supply is maintained.
• Potential indirect alternative products are available to order through our online catalogue.
• See our Downloads section to access the product listing for further information on the affected product codes and potential alternatives.
• The supply issue is anticipated to be resolved by week commencing 31 October 2022. 

Next Steps:              

• Customers are advised to log into our website to view the potential indirect alternative products.
• Other products and approaches are available as potential indirect alternatives to wound closure strips, such as the use of tissue adhesives or silicone adhesive dressings.
• Please note that due to the clinical nature of alternative products and approaches, we advise you to consult your own clinical experts to ensure suitability for your organisation’s use.
• If you have any further questions, please contact your local NHS Supply Chain Customer Services Advisor.