Project number
26037
Organization
Spectrum Plastics Group, A DuPont Business
Offering
ENGR498-F2025-S2026
A gastrostomy tube (G-tube), also known as a feeding tube, is a medical device inserted through the abdominal wall into the stomach to provide nutrition, fluids, and medications to patients who are unable to eat or swallow safely. One of the most common types of G-tubes uses an internal retention mechanism in the form of an inflatable balloon. This balloon is filled with sterile water once the tube is in place, anchoring the device inside the stomach.
While widely used, balloon-based retention systems present several issues. Over time, the balloon can degrade, deflate, or rupture due to mechanical stress, and/or chemical exposure. Balloon failure is one of the most common reasons for unplanned G-tube replacements, leading to patient discomfort, nutritional disruption, and increased healthcare burden. Additionally, if a balloon fails during use, the tube can become dislodged, increasing the risk of peristomal leakage, infection, and potential closure of the stoma, especially in new placements.
The goal of this capstone project is to design a novel, non-inflatable internal retention mechanism for a G-tube that provides reliable anchoring while minimizing the risk of accidental dislodgment and device failure. This alternative solution should prioritize patient safety, comfort, and ease of replacement.
While widely used, balloon-based retention systems present several issues. Over time, the balloon can degrade, deflate, or rupture due to mechanical stress, and/or chemical exposure. Balloon failure is one of the most common reasons for unplanned G-tube replacements, leading to patient discomfort, nutritional disruption, and increased healthcare burden. Additionally, if a balloon fails during use, the tube can become dislodged, increasing the risk of peristomal leakage, infection, and potential closure of the stoma, especially in new placements.
The goal of this capstone project is to design a novel, non-inflatable internal retention mechanism for a G-tube that provides reliable anchoring while minimizing the risk of accidental dislodgment and device failure. This alternative solution should prioritize patient safety, comfort, and ease of replacement.