While some complex procedures still require traditional open surgery, laparoscopic techniques are now used in an estimated 60-70% of abdominal surgeries in developed countries. In laparoscopic surgery, insufflation is an essential part which consists of introducing gas (typically carbon dioxide, CO2) into the abdominal cavity, also called pneumoperitoneum, to create visibility and provide a working space for the surgeon.
Conventional laparoscopy relies on the continuous delivery of cold, dry insufflation gas to establish and maintain the pneumoperitoneum. However, fixed-pressure insufflation systems often exceed clinically optimal intra-abdominal pressure thresholds, inducing excessive mechanical stress on delicate tissues and organs. This hyper-pressure, coupled with the thermodynamic properties of non-conditioned gas, exacerbates hypothermia and desiccation at the peritoneal interface, heightening the risk of postoperative adhesions and tissue trauma.
Despite advancements in imaging technologies, such as high-resolution or 3D camera systems, the industry has underprioritized integrated solutions to mitigate fogging, smoke retention, and thermal humidification deficit. These systemic shortcomings highlight the need for adaptive insufflation platforms that dynamically regulate pressure, temperature, and humidity while incorporating closed-loop gas recirculation.
Most advanced equipment in the market try to solve the problem by recirculating the gas and regulating one or several key parameters, such as pressure, temperature and humidity, to pre-fixed values. However, this is a conceptual error, as each patient has different intra-cavity basal conditions, and their modification leads to a high-impact laparoscopy. A smarter approach is required.
An experienced consortium is preparing a proposal to be submitted to the 8th call of Eurostars with the objective of improving these laparoscopy techniques with an integrated solution. They are looking for a partner capable to optimize a smart trocar, with experience in trocars manufacturing and in certification of medical products, and interested in commercializing the resulting product.
Advantages and innovation
The proponent team has envisioned, designed, patented and started developing up to TRL 5 a low impact laparoscopy solution that, based on their deep knowledge and practical experience, will be able to solve the current challenges such as the hypothermia, that is associated with numerous postoperative complications, coagulation disturbances and increased bleeding, prolonged post-anaesthesia recovery, shivering, myocardial ischaemia, etc.
Technical Specification or Expertise Sought
The consortium looks for a European company to lead a smart trocar optimization. The ideal candidate has relevant experience in trocars manufacturing, is capable of getting the certification of medical fungible products such as trocars and is interested in commercializing the final product.
Framework program
Innovation in SMEs
Call title and identifier
European Partnership on Innovative SMEs/Eurostars: joint transnational call for proposals (CALL 8 of Eurostars-3) HORIZON-EIE-2021-INNOVSMES-01-01 - European Partnership on Innovative SMEs
Submission and evaluation scheme
13 March 2025 – single stage
Anticipated project budget
Coordinator required
No
Deadline for EoI 06 Mar 2025
Deadline of the call 13 Mar 2025
Project duration in weeks
112