A new device to repair tears in the protective membrane around the brain and spine during surgery

Novel device for the repair and sealing of dural perforations in minimally invasive surgery

NIH-funded research Patchclamp Medtech, INC. · NIH-10818254

This study is testing a new tool that helps doctors quickly fix small holes in the protective layer around the brain and spine during minimally invasive surgeries, making it easier to prevent leaks and keep patients safe.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPatchclamp Medtech, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10818254 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel device designed to repair and seal perforations in the dura mater, the protective membrane surrounding the brain and spine, which can occur during minimally invasive surgeries. The device allows surgeons to quickly and effectively apply a graft to the damaged area using a single-hand applicator, which is particularly useful in the limited space of minimally invasive procedures. The research involves testing the device's effectiveness in laboratory settings and in live models to ensure it creates a secure, watertight seal, preventing complications from cerebrospinal fluid leakage.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing minimally invasive cranial or spinal surgeries who may be at risk for dural perforations.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or those with conditions that do not involve dural perforations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of serious complications from dural perforations during surgery, leading to better patient outcomes and shorter recovery times.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing similar devices for surgical applications, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.