Develop a device that gradually compresses abdominal organs from large omphaloceles back into the abdominal cavity.

Project Overview

Omphaloceles are congenital abdominal wall defects in which an infant's intestine or other abdominal organs, sometimes including the liver, remain outside the abdominal cavity enclosed by a thin membranous sac. Large and giant omphaloceles present a significant clinical challenge, as the underdeveloped abdominal cavity cannot safely accommodate immediate closure of the herniated viscera. Current treatment often involves the use of silo techniques, which gradually reduce the abdominal contents over time before the final closure. However, silo techniques are not standardized between hospitals and are typically improvised from mesh, biologic material, or dressings, which can increase the risk of infection, prolong reduction time, and possibly compromise patient outcomes. Thus, the client, Dr. Hau Le seeks a device that provides gradual compression and stabilization of large omphaloceles. The device must allow for controlled, incremental reduction of the abdominal contents while maintaining sterility and minimizing respiratory compromise. Materials used in the design must be biocompatible, commercially available, and ideally obtainable from multiple vendors.

Team Picture

Contact Information

Team Members

• Callum Brown - Co-Team Leader
• Sophia Ullmann - Co-Team Leader
• Dylan Libel - Communicator
• Anya Bergman - BSAC
• Christian Sacia-Garcia - BWIG
• Sanika Bidarkar - BPAG

Advisor and Client

• Prof. Duc-Huy Nguyen - Advisor
• Dr. Hau Le - Client