Project Description:

Polyps are abnormal growths that are commonly found on the colon wall and impose a risk of blockages or cancer. Large pedunculated polyps are characterized by their mushroom-like shape and the presence of a stalk. The removal of these polyps, known as polypectomy, can be performed during colonoscopy procedures; however, this poses a risk of post-polypectomy bleeding due to enlarged blood vessels located within the polyp stalk.

Current solutions intended to constrict blood flow to polyps before removal are inefficient, difficult to maneuver, or prone to failure. Hemostatic clips are not intended to constrict polyps, only to close the resulting wound. While current loop devices are designed to address this issue, over 80% of gastroenterologists feel that options on the market are too floppy and confusing to deploy, requiring a frequent review of the loop’s instructions for use. Failed cases of deployment, which can cause serious complications, further discourage its use. Therefore, an easy-to-use device is needed to quickly and effectively prevent bleeding prior to and following the polypectomy.

Our team, Polyp-Pals, has designed the Exe-Loop—an innovative tissue ligation device that offers various improvements from existing devices. First, the loop has more rigidity, allowing users to manipulate it over the polyp and around the stalk with greater ease and precision. Second, the tightening and deployment mechanisms are completely unique and reduce user error by separating the two mechanisms. Third, the operation of the device is significantly more intuitive, allowing users to control the loop with greater confidence.

Exe-Loop will boost efficiency, reduce costs, and increase confidence for gastroenterologists across the world. By creating better tools for physicians, Exe-Loop will improve patient outcomes.