Universal Gastrointestinal Tract Motility Mapping System

Technology 

The catheter system includes an outer sheath enclosing a sensing unit. The sensing unit includes a support structure made of a shape memory material configured to undergo stimulus-induced changes in configuration—one section conforms to one section of the GI tract while another section conforms to a second portion which is distinct in shape from the first region. Multiple pressure sensors are spaced on a flexible printed circuit board supported by the shape memory material. When inserted into the GI tract, transition from a linear to a conforming shape orients the pressure sensors to be compressed by the organ (e.g. esophagus and stomach) or the GI tract. This allows the sensors to accurately measure pressure changes along both tubular and non-tubular sections of the GI tract. The data collected is then used to create a detailed three-dimensional pressure map, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of GI motility disorders. 

Problem Addressed 

This technology addresses the limitations of current GI mapping tools, which are often restricted to tubular sections and provide limited spatial pressure data. Traditional methods like manometry and scintigraphy are either invasive, expose patients to radiation, or lack comprehensive pressure mapping capabilities. These limitations hinder accurate diagnosis and treatment of GI motility disorders by failing to provide high-resolution, three-dimensional pressure measurements across the entire GI tract. Consequently, this can lead to misdiagnosis, inadequate treatment plans, and increased patient morbidity. 

Advantages 

• Provides three-dimensional pressure measurements of the entire GI tract 
• Reduces the need for invasive procedures and radiation exposure 
• Uses economical materials, making it affordable and accessible 
• Offers high-density pressure measurements for high resolution mapping and accurate diagnosis