UVM Reference Number: C778
Summary:
Provides real-time, reproducible pressure data and gives direct control of dilation execution to the physician.
Background:
Endoscopic dilation for esophagal dysphagia is currently empiric and subjective, and without objective predictive data, often results in serial dilation procedures or worse, injury. Data from previous dilations (pressure, volume or pressure/volume curves) can potentially be used to set parameters for subsequent dilations: if the patient does well with the dilation similar parameters from the past dilation can be used, if dilation is ineffective, more aggressive dilation parameters can be set. Currently, the physician inserts the endoscope, places the balloon catheter through the scope, evaluates the stricture, and then determines the size balloon they would like used (an empiric process). The physician then asks the assistant (nurse or tech) to execute the dilation by inflating the balloon using the insufflating device. Consequently, the physician has minimal control and oversight over actual execution of the dilation.
Technology Overview:
The endoscopic dilation monitor (EDM), developed and tested by University of Vermont researchers, solves the problem by providing real time, reproducible pressure data and direct control of dilation execution and enables the physician performing the procedure more control over execution of the dilation. In addition, clinical trials have shown that patient outcome can be predicted by percent drop in static pressure and ongoing work is using the EDM to develop a better physiological understanding of the procedure.
Benefits:
- Real time, reproduceable pressure data
- Direct physician control
- Improved patient outcomes
- Improved dilation instrument maintenance and management
Applications:
- Esophageal dilation
- Potential use in intestinal tract and other organs
Opportunity:
- Looking for research and development collaboration and licensing opportunities
Patents:
Seeking:
- Development partner
- Licensing
