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Intelligent Intercostal Catheter (SaPD)

Summary

Failure to decompress a tension pneumothorax is a well-recognised cause of avoidable, early trauma deaths. Alfred Health and Monash University have developed an innovative device to safely deliver rapid and successful pleural decompression in trauma care settings. The Semi-automated Pleural Decompression device (SaPD©) addresses the reported failures of current procedures.

Technology Benefits

- Proper placement of decompression device
- Chest wall fixation
- Unique assembly allowing safe air
and fluid extraction
- Functions as an ‘intelligent’ intercostal catheter
- Preliminary testing completed

Technology Application

Tension Pneumothorax (tPTX)
Pleural decompression
Trauma settings

Detailed Technology Description

A device has been developed to safely and accurately open an anatomical space for fluid and/or air extraction. The all- in-one device allows efficient pleural decompression with reduced risk to the patient. Key features include:
• Chest wall fixation at an optimal insertion angle
• An adhesive thoracic footing with integrated electrodes to allow the monitoring of patient vital signs
• An automated extendable blunt tip which protrudes from the obturator on entering the pleural space to prevent organ injury
• An extendable cannula which caters for varying chest wall sizes
• A deployable flex valve mechanism to allow one-way air and fluid release.

Type of Cooperation

Licensing

Application Date

22/11/2017 00:00:00

Application No.

PCT/AU2017/051286

Others

This is a unique opportunity where the technology has undergone bench-top development as well as preliminary testing. The design features have been optimized and tested. Biocompatible and cost-effective materials need to be established.
The team consists of experienced trauma doctors and engineers with extensive knowledge in first responder resuscitation, through their work in prehospital as well as combat casualty settings.

ID No.

2016-044

Country/Region

Australia