Inverted balloon nasal packing for efficient, non-invasive bleeding control

This technology is a nasal packing system that employs an inverted balloon design with dissolvable hemostatic coating for atraumatic placement, effective bleeding control, and improved patient comfort in epistaxis management and postoperative care.

Unmet Need: Safer, more effective nasal packing for epistaxis

Epistaxis, or nosebleed, is one of the most common emergencies in otolaryngology. Severe cases often require nasal packing to stop bleeding or stabilize the nasal cavity after surgery. Current nasal packing options are limited by challenges in placement, discomfort for patients, and risks of rebleeding or mucosal trauma. Dissolvable materials require rigid applicators that can cause injury, while non-dissolvable packs are uncomfortable and often difficult to remove. There is a need for a nasal packing solution that provides controlled placement, improved patient comfort, and reduced complications.

The Technology: Atraumatic nasal packing with inverted balloon design

This technology is a nasal packing system that uses an inverted balloon design to provide controlled, atraumatic placement for epistaxis management and postoperative nasal care. The balloon is stored compactly in a handle compartment and gradually everts with gas or liquid, conforming to the nasal cavity while maintaining a central channel for breathing and endoscopic access. The external surface can be coated with dissolvable hemostatic fabrics to promote clotting and minimize tissue trauma, while an optional dual-balloon configuration allows treatment of deeper or more complex bleeding sites. This approach improves maneuverability for clinicians, reduces patient discomfort, and minimizes the risk of rebleeding compared to conventional rigid or non-dissolvable nasal packing.

Applications:

• Clinical management of severe epistaxis (nosebleeds)
• Postoperative hemostasis and support following nasal and sinus surgeries
• Non-surgical treatment for nasal airway obstruction
• Targeted drug delivery within the nasal cavity
• Bioengineered scaffold for nasal tissue regeneration
• Research tool for studying nasal cavity remodeling and wound healing

Advantages:

• Enables atraumatic and controlled placement within the nasal cavity
• Provides improved patient comfort compared to rigid or non-dissolvable packs
• Allows for breathing and endoscope access during treatment
• Reduces risk of rebleeding and mucosal trauma
• Adaptable dual-balloon design reaches deeper bleeding sites
• Compatible with dissolvable hemostatic coatings for enhanced clotting support

Lead Inventor:

Mark Lee, M.D.

Related Publications:

Tech Ventures Reference:

• IR CU25227

• Licensing Contact: Sara Gusik