BioSUM Device Detects Post-Surgical Leaks Through pH Monitoring

A new bioresorbable device, called BioSUM, has shown promising results in detecting post-surgical leaks in deep tissues by monitoring pH changes, as tested on animal models like pigs, whose gastrointestinal systems closely resemble those of humans. Post-operative leaks following gastrointestinal surgeries are a significant risk, often occurring within three to seven days after surgery and posing life-threatening complications if undetected. Detecting these leaks early is challenging yet crucial for timely intervention. To address this need, Jaiqi Liu and colleagues have developed BioSUM, a novel pH-responsive material for real-time monitoring of pH fluctuations that may indicate leaks in healing surgical joins. The BioSUM device, which is thin and implantable, consists of small metal discs embedded within a hydrogel that adapts its shape based on the surrounding pH. If a leak occurs, the hydrogel responds to the change in pH by swelling, causing the metal discs to move farther apart. This change in the discs’ position can then be easily monitored through ultrasound imaging, providing a clear signal that intervention is necessary. Additionally, the device’s hydrogel can be customized to detect pH changes within specific ranges, making it versatile enough for implantation in various gastrointestinal organs, including the stomach, small intestines, and pancreas. Liu and his team demonstrated BioSUM’s effectiveness in both small and large animal models, suggesting its potential utility in human surgical recovery. Researchers Shonit Nair Sharma and Yuhan Lee highlight BioSUM’s impact, noting its alignment with the rising demand for precise and patient-centered healthcare monitoring. In its current form, BioSUM serves as a cutting-edge platform that complements other emerging diagnostic tools, such as capsule-based diagnostics and advanced imaging techniques, and offers new potential in the early detection and management of critical post-surgical complications.

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