Project Scope
Severe stenosis cases are difficult to correct because they have a high rate of re-scarring, causing recurrence of the problem. One method that is used to fix this is to open up the scar and then to implant a stent, which is left in place for several weeks hoping that the airway will heal adequately around it before taking it out. However, scar tissue will frequently grow back to obstruct the airway again. A more permanent solution for this problem is critical, as obstructive breathing greatly reduces the quality of life for patients. This is especially important for patients with a tracheostomy tube, who cannot breathe naturally.
A new idea for our team to work on would be to create an improved stent that would put radial pressure on the walls of the airway for a short period, and then take the pressure off to allow blood flow and keep the tissue alive. This cycle would repeat indefinitely. The expected response is that the airway would become larger over time. It would essentially be a type of tissue expander made for the airway. The stent should radially expand tissue for five minutes and relax for ten minutes, using the principle of hysteresis to expand the airway. We will deliver a prototype of the airway stent, along with relevant computing and electronic machinery. We will provide the relevant code by which the computation is processed.
Our primary aim is to make a reliable device for patients of Dr. Randal Paniello at the Washington University Medical School. We will first focus on making the device compatible to patients with a tracheostomy tube, and from there we will potentially explore its compatibility for all patients with Subglottic Stenosis. Therefore, we will be designing a device for patients with SGS grades 2-4. From its cyclic application of pressure while still allowing blood flow, our primary goal for this stent is to provide a more permanent solution where there is little to no re-scarring. With less re-scarring, there is hope that we can restore patient’s normal breathing abilities with only very limited obstruction, retaining their quality of life.
Project Schedule
Team Roles
Kyle Sachdev - CAD Lead
Taylor Hughes - Programming Lead
Brian Dallesasse - Electronics Lead, Website Maintenance
Taylor Hughes - Programming Lead
Brian Dallesasse - Electronics Lead, Website Maintenance