Development and evaluation of a non-invasive engineered securement device for patient drains

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Each year, tens of millions of patients worldwide undergo procedures in healthcare that result in the placement of drains in their body. They may be inserted to treat life threatening conditions or as a means to safely drain away contents after an operation in order to promote healing. Patients may have drains for days, weeks or months depending on the condition.Up to 40% of patients with drains experience unintended movement, dislodgement or removal of their drains due to a range of push or pull forces encountered through everyday use. When a drain moves it causes patients considerable pain, this reduces their speed of recovery. A dislodged or accidentally removed drain can lead to life threatening complications. Patients must undergo imaging (e.g. CT scans), drain replacement or reoperation. This affects patient safety and their experience of care; and is costly for hospitals.Current standard practice to secure patient drains involves skin stitches and adhesive barrier dressings. Sutures can cut into the skin and may come loose after repeated tugging on the drain. Medical device companies sell alternative products designed to reduce drain dislodgement; however, no single solution has demonstrated success in the clinical setting.Javelo Health is a British MedTech started based in Scotland. The company has developed an innovative mechanical device designed to secure patient drains and prevent dislodgement or accidental removal. It will improve patient safety, care and save hospitals in costly complications and waste.This Innovate UK Biomedical Catalyst project will progress Javelo Health's technology from bench to bedside by carrying out mechanical and clinical testing supported by a PPI group, thus ensuring it meets the needs of patients and is de-risked for clinical use.