LU 2020-249

Inventors
Monti Sharma, MD*
Leslie Caldarelli, MD
Jim Jensen, RRT
Eric Bradley, RRT
Katie Turner, RRT
David Grayson, RN

Description
A magnetic adhesive dressing that enables the secure attachment of medical devices without associated pressure injuries

Background
Medical device-related pressure injuries (MDPRIs) account for more than 30% of all hospital-acquired pressure injuries.  Pressure injuries are areas of injured skin that occur when various forces are applied to the skin’s surface.  Such injuries carry a high disease burden and associated medical cost in hospitalized patients, especially in critically ill patients with compromised skin integrity as well as in neonates with thin, fragile skin. Securely attaching medical equipment to patients can exert direct high pressure on focused areas, increasing the risk of MDPRIs. For example, non-invasive respiratory devices such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) traditionally require pressure straps to obtain a secure fit and airtight seal. However, with this continuous application of pressure over the course of respiratory treatment, pressure injuries on the head and face are common and can result in an increased infection risk and permanently debilitating or deforming injuries. There is a need for an improved method to secure medical devices to patients that reduces the risk of MDPRIs while maintaining a secure attachment for effective treatment.

Abstract
A multidisciplinary research team at Lurie and Northwestern, comprised of physicians, respiratory therapists, and nurses, has devised a method for securing medical devices onto patients that overcomes the current limitations of pressure-based systems. Using magnetic elements imbedded into a skin-safe adhesive dressing, this innovation called Neoderm allows healthcare providers to quickly secure medical equipment onto patients without applying direct pressure. Instead of relying on the application of direct pressure, this technology leverages magnetic polarity to form a safe and secure seal at the patient interface, thus reducing the risk of MDPRIs.  Current respiratory solutions include the application of a barrier dressing to help minimize local trauma, but significant pressure is still applied to form an adequate seal for effective therapy. Initial testing of Neoderm prototypes with a neonatal CPAP device demonstrates that the magnetic adhesive technology maintains an airtight seal for the delivery of respiratory support up to 10 cm H2O of positive pressure and 14 L/min of flow, thereby achieving the therapeutic requirements for neonatal CPAP but with less risk of trauma to the skin.  Beyond respiratory equipment, applications of this magnetic adhesive include securement of various other medical devices and equipment, such as eye covers for neonatal phototherapy, ostomy bags, and surgical silos. The technology could also be deployed in various medical and surgical settings for novel wound dressings, including negative pressure wound therapy. Ultimately, this invention can broadly impact the delivery of medical care, improve patient safety, and increase patient comfort.

(A) Neoderm Magnetic System for CPAP masks; (B) Magnet embedded into hydrocolloid dressing for placement on skin (C) Magnets joined together to create seal between mask and dressing on skin.

Applications

• Respiratory equipment
• Wound/surgical dressings
• Ostomy bags
• Neonatal phototherapy
• Various medical devices/equipment

Advantages

• Decreased risk of deforming and debilitating pressure injuries
• Easy and quick securement for healthcare workers
• Less overall supplies and material required

IP Status
Provisional and PCT applications have been filed.