Forward-Facing Snare Polypectomy Device

Description:

Inventor:
Samuel Giordano, MD – Gastroenterologist, Digestive Health Institute, Cooper University Health Care

Overview

A novel endoscopic snare device designed to improve the capture, resection, and retrieval of polyps, tissue, stones, and foreign bodies. The system utilizes a forward-facing braided wire loop that expands perpendicular to the catheter, improving visualization and access to difficult lesions.

Clinical Need

Colorectal cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality in the United States. Approximately 14 million polypectomies are performed annually, highlighting the importance of effective polyp detection and removal. Existing snare devices can be difficult to position around large, sessile, flat, or anatomically challenging polyps, resulting in incomplete resection, repeat procedures, and increased healthcare costs.

Solution

To address these challenges, the Forward-Facing Snare Polypectomy Device was developed, featuring a braided wire that expands into a round or hexagonal shape, perpendicular to the length of the catheter. The snare loop can be expanded either passively or manually by prongs extended from the catheter. Polyp removal is achieved by either retracting the snare back into the catheter or by pulling a purse-string mechanism.

Technology

The device employs a braided wire snare that expands in a round or hexagonal configuration perpendicular to the catheter shaft. The loop may be deployed passively or actively through expanding prongs and can be closed by catheter retraction or a purse-string mechanism to capture tissue or foreign bodies.

Advantages

Improved visualization of target tissue
Enhanced precision and control during polypectomy
Improved access to flat and difficult-to-reach lesions
Reduced need for repeat procedures
Lower complication risk compared with advanced resection techniques such as EMR and ESD