Register for free to
view the full innovation profile.
Tests have been done on the durability of the spoons and they have been found to be acceptable for repeated use in surgery. The technology is currently undergoing clinical trials.
About
These 3D printed surgical spoons were designed with straight edges in order to make the spoon more effective in removing uroliths in dogs or other animals. These straight edges make it much easier to maneuver the devices within the bladder, allows for more surface area contact between the spoon head and the bladder wall, and, therefore, will create a more efficient and complete removal of the uroliths. Typically, uroliths are removed in a cystotomy one of two ways: (1) by using a standard tablespoon or teaspoon or (2) by flushing the stones out by inserting a urinary catheter through the urinary tract. Both of these methods still make it difficult to remove all of the stones, especially the ones that can be millimeters in size. Additionally, failure to remove all uroliths in an operation is considered a breach of the standard of veterinary care because remaining uroliths can cause serious post-operative complications. This invention makes removal easier, therefore reducing the chance that uroliths will be remain after the surgery.
Key Benefits
• Reduces costs for surgery (less anesthesia, less time expended for surgery, etc.) • Reduces post-operative complications because uroliths can be removed entirely
Applications
• Removal of uroliths during cystotomy.