A device to improve safety and efficiency in hemodialysis treatments
Official title: Self-sealing needle guide system for reliable hemodialysis
Funded at Flowpoint Medical INC · NIH-11237368 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new implantable device that helps make it easier and safer for patients on hemodialysis to get their needles in the right spot, which could lower the chances of infections and other problems during treatment.
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 | March 10, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $55,000 |
| NIH project number | 3R43DK141421-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11237368 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 do not require vascular access for dialysis will not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an innovative implantable device designed to enhance vascular access 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 improving the safety and reliability of needle placement, this device aims to reduce the risks of infection and complications during hemodialysis treatments. The research will involve refining the device's design and conducting preclinical studies to evaluate its effectiveness in large animal models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the safety and efficiency of hemodialysis treatments for patients with end-stage kidney disease.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar research in improving vascular access for dialysis has shown promise, indicating potential for success.
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.
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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.