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Novel Feeding Tube

The Problem  

Patients who have undergone throat cancer surgery often have a laryngectomy and many subsequently undergo voice restoration surgery. The most common form of treatment involves a tracheo-oesophageal puncture (TEP) which is followed by the insertion of an in-dwelling speech valve 2-3 weeks later. This delay allows the tissue to heal around the puncture site.
 
As the valve will remain in place for the rest of the patient’s life, regular care and hygiene routines are required to manage problems such as stretching tissues, poorly fitting or ageing valves. Treatment of these problems often involves temporary removal of the valve.
 
During these times when the valve is not in situ, the patient is prevented from eating normally in order to rest the tissues, with nutrition being provided by tube.
 
Current methods can in some cases increase the risk of pneumonia since aspiration may occur from fluids (nutritional or saliva) leaking dangerously from the oesophagus into the trachea via the fistula and into the lungs. 

The Solution 

A Novel Feeding Device has been devised for throat cancer patients who have undergone a tracheostomy.
 
The device, designed by ENT surgeons at Sunderland Royal Hospital, is a unique feeding tube specifically designed for tracheostomy patients. It is inserted through the stoma into the stomach, and is designed to prevent fluids leaking across the TEP and into the lungs.
 

The Opportunity 

Companies having an interest in licensing opportunities for this product please contact Anna Taylor on 0191 5164400 or email anna.taylor@nhsinnovationsnorth.org.uk

24/Feb/2010

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