Optimization and clinical testing of Transcutaneous Implant Evacuation System.

ended

Up to 700,000 citizens in Europe have undergone ostomy surgery; up to 60% of individuals with an ostomy will never undergo a reversal operation. Approximately 140,000 new stomas are performed every year in Europe and 120,000 in the USA. Patients with a conventional ileostomy have to continuously wear a stoma bag attached to the abdomen for collection of feces. Despite the availability of a large number of light weight, hygienic and discrete bags, many patients suffer from complications such as skin problems, leakage and odor, and for some the mere change of body image results in social isolation. At times, life for many stoma patients means difficult situations when the stoma controls their lives. The disruptive Transcutaneous Implant Evacuation System (TIES®) is a result of several years of research combined with the latest 3D manufacturing technology. It consists of a small tube made of pure titanium surrounded by a porous structure which allows smooth integration with the body tissues. The implant is built up layer by layer into one solid piece with 3D laser sinthering technology. This produces a unique structure with optimized surfaces and enables the use of a material that is clean and without impurities; together these factors promote reliable tissue ingrowth. A first of its kind, TIES will eliminate seepage, odor, noise, and the need for permanently wearing stoma appliance – offering a great improvement in quality of life in patients with ileostomy. The TIES emptying solution also provides a “non skin touch” way to drain the waste, eliminating the skin problems.