MUSC neurosurgeon Stephen Kalhorn, MD, invented the tool, named VayuClear, to address the problem of vacuum-assisted suction devices clogging during surgeries. These clogs, which occur as often as four to five times an hour, can take one to three minutes to de-clog or replace, but VayuClear is designed to de-clog surgical suctions in one to three seconds using pressurized saline.
“We commonly see clogged suction lines and suction tips during operations, leading to delays,” Dr. Kalhorn said in a news release. “Delays in surgery are frustrating and mean more time under anesthesia for the patient.”
The technology already has received a U.S. patent, and it’s on track to be FDA-registered and commercially available as early as mid-2022, according to the release.
The accelerator has partnered with South Carolina company Medical Access Partners to commercialize the tool.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
