The trocar site closure device is designed to rapidly close trocar (port) sites without the need for sutures. Currently, trocar sites of 10mm or higher in adult cases and all trocar sites in pediatric cases require closure to avoid a possible trocar site hernia.
Dr. Michael Palese, Director of Minimally Invasive Urology, created this device to address two main issues: the time to takes to suture trocar sites and 
the comfort of the patient. Placement of the trocar site suture can sometimes be tedious and difficult, adding time and cost to the operative procedure. If this device can reduce trocar site closure time by 10 mins in 50% of all laparoscopic operations, its use can reduce hospital costs by >$500M in the US alone. In addition, many patients complain of pain and discomfort at the closure site, secondary to the tightness of the suture. There have also been cases of nerve entrapment due to suturing of the closure site. This device is designed to reduce instances of patient discomfort. The suture free closure device will be delivered through the trocar itself. It will consist of a bristled, biodegradable material which would be introduced as an ‘umbrella’ type of instrument and fan out once it is delivered into the abdomen. This device can be utilized under direct vision, and with experience, could also be done in a blind manner. The bristles on the back of the umbrella material will allow it to be anchored into the peritoneal lining so that it patches the actual trocar hole this preventing any herniation of bowel contents.
Current Development Status
- PoC Testing
Applications
- Closure of Trocar Sites in Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery
Advantages
- Faster Closing Time
- Less Pain for the Patient
Publications
- Not available
Patent Status
- International Application PCT/US2012/041052 filed June 6, 2012
- Status: Published. International Publication No. WO 2012/116170
- US Utility Application 13/489,969 filed June 6, 2012
- Status: Published. US Publication No. 2012/0316594
Contact
Christopher Frenz, PhD
Business Development Analyst
Mount Sinai Innovation Partners | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Phone: 646.605.7316