Using a virtual model to predict outcomes of esophageal surgery
Official title: vEsophagus - Predicting surgical outcomes using a virtual esophagus
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11019126 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to help people with esophageal motility disorders and GERD by using advanced models to better understand how food moves through the esophagus, so we can find the best treatment options for you and reduce the need for invasive tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | January 20, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $482,359 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK141825-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019126 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults experiencing symptoms of esophageal motility disorders or GERD, particularly those who may require surgical intervention.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with esophageal conditions that do not require surgical treatment or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the prediction of surgical outcomes for patients with esophageal motility disorders and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). By integrating physiological data into advanced physics-based models, the project aims to simulate how food moves through the esophagus, which can help identify the best treatment options for patients. The approach seeks to reduce the need for invasive procedures like endoscopy and improve the overall management of esophageal diseases. Patients will be evaluated based on their symptoms and clinical data to tailor treatment plans more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate predictions of surgical outcomes, ultimately improving patient care and reducing healthcare costs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using simulation models for predicting surgical outcomes in other areas, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Patankar, Neelesh a. — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Patankar, Neelesh a.
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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.