Medical Device for Chronic Sinusitis

Nasal Inflammation and Congestion Due to Sinus Infection

A medical device has been designed to relieve sinus congestion and pressure in chronic sinusitis patients. Sinusitis can be caused by infection, allergy symptoms, or autoimmune problems. In chronic cases lasting over 6-8 weeks, sinus surgery under general anesthesia is often required to relieve sinus congestion and inflammation of the nasal pathway. In healthy sinus activity, cilia in the ostium move mucus up a track into the nasal pathway where it can be drained. In cases of sinusitis this function is disabled, mucus builds up in the ostium, and the sinuses become infected. In order to correct chronic sinus infections, the ostium passageway must be opened and normal cilia function restored.

Relieves Sinus Congestion and Inflammation without Invasive Sinus Surgery

The medical device is designed to treat chronic sinus infections with a minimally invasive approach, with less pain to the patient, decreased recovery time, as well as greatly shortening the duration of the procedure. The medical device is composed of a nasal implant and a catheter delivery system. The delivery system uses a catheter to gain access to the ostium through the nostril. With a retrograde delivery motion, the medical device is able to deliver the implant through a later portal on the catheter into the congested ostium from the posterior of the opening. The implant includes an open cross-section to open the passageway while exposing the cilia to promote normal function. The implant is intended to open and maintain patency of the sinus ostia, facilitating mucus drainage and nasal healing. The implant is made from a biodegradable material such that extraction of the implant will not be required. The implant may be coated with pharmaceutical agents including antibiotics, anti-histamines, anti-inflamatory and mucus thinning drugs to further aid in healing. The medical device or implant may also be impregnated with radio-opaque material to make them visible via x-ray to verify proper placement.

BENEFITS OF IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE FOR TREATMENT OF SINUSITIS AND NASAL CONGESTION

• Minimally-invasive approach leads to no cutting, less pain, and fast recovery
• Proprietary, anatomically-designed tool for patient comfort and easy access under local anesthesia
• No scoping required, as tactile feedback indicates successful sinus access
• All-in-one design for single hand use and shorter procedures
• Biodegradable implant mechanically facilitates sinus patency, decongestion, and relief from sinus inflammation

File Number: UM Case Z09199-Z09200 

Web site: http://www.license.umn.edu/Products/Medical-Dev...

Other Information: Questions? Contact: Kevin Anderson, Technology Marketing Manager, Ph 612-624-8293 E-mail andersks@umn.edu