Team 15

ANAstomotic Solutions

Team Members: Alexa Ng, Adrienne Parkinson & Natalie Santoro

Team Mentors: Vincent Pizziconi, PhD - SBHSE
Brent Vernon, PhD - SBHSE
David Row, MD - Dignity Health
Joseph Chung - Creighton University School of Medicine

YouTube Link: View the video link below before joining the zoom meeting

Zoom Link: https://asu.zoom.us/j/2968174709

Abstract

Anastomotic leak is one of the most detrimental complications that occur after gastrointestinal surgery. It contributes to the high rates of mortality and morbidity associated with colorectal surgeries. Anastomoses are the sites where sections of the intestine are rejoined together after a portion of the bowel has been resected usually by means of staples or sutures. The risk of bursting and subsequent leakage of luminal contents is high due to the fragility of these sites during healing. In studies with sample populations >300 patients, the incidence of postoperative anastomotic leak has consistently been reported as high as 13.5%. Wound healing in the gastrointestinal system is unique due to shear stress and the presence of anaerobic and aerobic bacteria. Shear stress is caused by colonic motility and the mechanical disruption due to regular intestinal function. This is problematic because anastomosis healing requires a stable environment with minimal pressure and tension. Moreover, the microbiome specificity can balance can present a challenge to finding the proper amount and type of target antibiotic to promote anastomotic healing. Our device, ANAstomotic Solutions, combines a hydrogel for targeted antibiotic delivery and a tension-reducing tube to promote healing and therefore reduce the rate of anastomotic leak. Current solutions for anastomotic leaks include endoscopic vacuum therapies, negative pressure sponges, and surgical sealants. However, these methods have not been updated or proven effective in reducing complications. ANAstomotic Solutions is meant to reduce the occurrence of anastomotic leak, and associated mortality/morbidity rates with a flexible, layered hydrogel-stent capable of drug elution and luminal fluid absorption. We expect ANAstomotic Solutions to cost ~$1000. In phase II of product design, we plan to begin prototype development and design validation.