Needle Stability Support Grid for Percutaneous Procedures/Biopsies

Unmet Need
A “pneumothorax” is a collapsed lung and is one of the major risks of chest biopsies. In the procedure, a trocar with stylet pierces the skin, chest wall, and lung tissue before reaching the lesion or mass for sampling. The more punctures the trocar makes in the pleural space due to incorrect approach angle or misguided entry, the higher the risk for a collapse. Pneumothorax occurs in up to 20% of chest biopsies.

Technology Overview
The inventors have developed a translucent external stabilization pad to stabilize incoming needles/devices. The adhesive backing provides a seal around the site of entry, preventing air from penetrating the pleural space. Finally, radio-opaque lines improve accuracy of needle trajectory. Improved alignment accuracy reduces the number of pleural crossings and overall incidence of pneumothorax.

Stage of Development
A prototype has been developed and has undergone testing in swine.

 

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