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SARAH WU: As surgical technology becomes more advanced,
more and more procedures are shifting toward minimally
invasive techniques.
For instance, using miniature cameras or robotic tools,
surgeons are able to make procedures shorter
and improve patient outcomes.
However, sealing and repairing tissues
is still a major challenge in minimally invasive surgery.
In these situations, surgeons are often
dealing with limited visualization,
reduced degrees of freedom, and less haptic feedback.
This makes suturing, stapling, and applying
glues exceptionally difficult.
To address these challenges, our team
has developed a multi-functional origami-inspired tissue
sealing patch with a novel multilayer architecture.
The sticky layer of the patch is based on a bioadhesive material
which contains functional groups that can covalently bond
with tissue surfaces.
One surface of the patch is embedded with micro particles
comprised of this material, then infused with a slippery fluid
layer.
This fluid-infused matrix helps prevent
the bioadhesive material from becoming
contaminated by body fluids as it
is navigated through the body.
Meanwhile, a non-adhesive anti-fouling layer
on the opposite side prevents the patch
from being contaminated by bacteria or other foulants that
can cause inflammation.
The patch can be folded into different shapes, giving it
the versatility to be integrated with various existing devices
without needing a completely new device
to be created and approved.
Through a series of demonstrations
we show how the patch can be combined
with a laparoscopic stapler to form a linear seal or a balloon
catheter to seal hollow organs and vessels.
Over time, as the wound heals the past
can be degraded in the body.
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