Design and prototype a low-profile biosensing interface for JP surgical drains that automatically and accurately quantifies postoperative drain output.

Project Overview

Postoperative surgical drains are widely used following plastic and reconstructive procedures to prevent fluid accumulation, yet drain management remains highly dependent on patient self-measurement and reporting. This approach introduces significant variability, error, and burden for patients, while limiting clinicians ability to identify abnormal drainage patterns or complications early [1]. This project seeks to address this challenge by developing a low-profile, externally mounted biosensing interface for postoperative surgical drains that automatically and accurately measures drain output while securely stabilizing the drain tubing at the skin interface. The system is designed to integrate with existing Jackson-Pratt (JP) surgical drains and objectively quantify fluid volume over time without relying on patient self-measurement. By combining automated output tracking with comfortable, stable external securement, the device aims to reduce drain immigration, dislodgement, infection risk, and reporting error, thereby improving postoperative monitoring and patient outcomes.

Team Picture

Contact Information

Team Members

• Nithila Balaji - Team Leader
• Shashandra Suresh - Communicator
• Jetzu Thao - BSAC & BWIG
• Kendall Witt - BPAG

Advisor and Client

• Prof. Justin Williams - Advisor
• Dr. Makenna Ash - Client