Technologies

Brief Description

Low friction surgical towel retracts the bowels for better visualization and isolation of the abdominal wall during hernia repair.

Problem

Over 250,000 hernia repair surgeries are performed in the United States every year. Keeping the herniating bowels out of the surgical site during such surgeries is a challenge. Currently, surgeons use basic cloth and towels to block the opening in the abdominal wall while performing the procedure. Standard cloth can be difficult to remove and can inadvertently be left inside patents; these cloths also irritate the sensitive tissue slowing recovery.

Solution

Dr. Kovach's hernia towel design features a surface that slides over tissue without irritation, allowing for easy removal and better recovery. There are features in the device that allow for easy detection in the abdominal cavity and helps ensure it is not left inside the patient. The towel also employs a feature that allows the surgeon to keep the towel in place until the closing sutures and also facilitates towel removal. The towel effectively protects the bowels during hernia repair surgery and provides better visibility for the surgeon.