Epithelial Gals

SkinDe-ep: Efficient and Intuitive De-epithelialization

The SkinDe-ep is a de-epithelialization device consisting of 2 rollers, a blade, a handle, and a metal frame. The defining feature of the device is the dual rollers, one in front of the blade and one behind the blade, providing a 4 square-inch, flat plane of stability. A significant advantage to this design is the ability to provide an entire local plane of stability without additional human or device force input. While the rollers maintain tautness in the skin, the v-shaped blade offers a precise cutting mechanism that allows for uniform cutting depth. The handle of the device is angled 30 degrees upward from the plane formed by the rollers and blade; this breaks the force from the surgeon into a vertical and horizontal component, allowing for less force to be applied overall.

Project Description:

There are multiple procedures that require removal of the superficial skin layer, such as breast reductions and other reconstructive procedures. The procedure of removing this superficial skin layer is called de-epithelialization. Unfortunately, it is a tremendous pain point during the surgical workflow, as removing this skin layer is labor-intensive, cumbersome, and time-consuming. Hours are wasted in the OR, which is expensive. The Skin De-ep is an improved de-epithelialization device for surgeons and their assistants to save time and effort in the OR.

Antonio, Forte, MD PhD

Mayo Clinic

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery | Radiology