Developing a new tool to help remove colon lesions without major surgery
Saving patients from invasive colectomies via trans-endoscopic steerable instrument sheaths
This study is testing a new type of flexible tool that helps doctors remove tricky growths in the colon without needing major surgery, making it easier and safer for patients who might otherwise face more invasive procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Knoxville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Knoxville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11083615 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating advanced steerable instrument sheaths that allow for minimally invasive endoscopic procedures to remove colon lesions. Currently, many patients undergo invasive colectomies due to the limitations of traditional endoscopes in handling complex lesions. The new device aims to enhance the dexterity of endoscopic tools, making it easier for doctors to remove challenging lesions safely and effectively. By improving the capabilities of endoscopes, this research seeks to reduce the need for major surgeries and improve patient outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with colon lesions that are difficult to remove using standard endoscopic techniques.
Not a fit: Patients with colon lesions that are not amenable to endoscopic removal or those who do not have lesions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of patients requiring invasive colectomy surgeries, leading to better recovery times and fewer complications.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing advanced endoscopic techniques, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in minimally invasive procedures.
Where this research is happening
Knoxville, United States
- University of Tennessee Knoxville — Knoxville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rucker, Daniel Caleb — University of Tennessee Knoxville
- Study coordinator: Rucker, Daniel Caleb
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 below.