A device to improve needle insertion for hemodialysis
Official title: Self-sealing needle guide system for reliable hemodialysis
Funded at Flowpoint Medical INC · NIH-11013179 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new device that helps make needle insertions safer and more accurate for people getting hemodialysis, so they can have a better experience and reduce the risk of complications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Flowpoint Medical INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Overland Park, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | September 16, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $324,836 |
| NIH project number | 1R43DK141421-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013179 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with end-stage kidney disease who require regular hemodialysis treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing hemodialysis or those with conditions that contraindicate the use of implantable devices may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an innovative implantable device designed to enhance the safety and reliability of needle insertion for patients undergoing hemodialysis. The device features a 3D-printed titanium shell that accurately guides the hemodialysis needle to the correct insertion point, while a specialized valve minimizes bleeding upon needle removal. By utilizing advanced materials and engineering techniques, the research aims to refine the device's manufacturability and operational parameters, followed by testing its functionality in a large animal preclinical study. This approach seeks to address common complications associated with hemodialysis, such as infection and incorrect needle placement.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the safety and efficiency of hemodialysis treatments for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced materials and engineering techniques for improving medical devices, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Flowpoint Medical INC
Overland Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bobe, Jason — Flowpoint Medical INC
- Study coordinator: Bobe, Jason
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Optimizing a prehabilitation program for kidney transplant candidates on dialysis
A program to improve physical function and readiness for kidney transplant in people on dialysis is being developed and tested to help candidates stay healthier while they wait.
-
Simulator-based training to improve dialysis needle skills for patients with kidney failure
A new simulator-based curriculum will train dialysis care providers to position and insert needles more safely and consistently for people with end-stage kidney disease.
-
Implanted dialysis device for safe, easy at-home hemodialysis
A new implanted dialysis cartridge and at-home system aim to let people with kidney failure dialyze themselves more safely and conveniently at home.
-
Improving how patients choose their hemodialysis access
A patient-friendly project to help people with kidney failure better understand and decide between AV fistula, graft, or catheter for hemodialysis.
-
IVUS in AV access dysfunction for hemodialysis patients
A new approach tests whether using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in people with failing AV fistulas or grafts improves diagnosis and guides treatment to prevent more blockages.
-
StepNet-Adapt: a personalized mobile program to boost activity for people on dialysis
A personalized mobile health program uses wearables, texts, and coaching to help people on hemodialysis become more physically active.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.