Amnioseal

Preventing premature birth in fetal intervention

Principal Investigator: Michael R. Harrison, MD

Challenge

The burgeoning field of invasive prenatal diagnosis (amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling) and fetal therapy (fetoscopy, fetal surgery) is limited by high rates of preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) leading to preterm labor and delivery. Extensive attempts to develop biologics (fibrin glue, platelets) and devices (collagen plugs) to seal the disrupted amniotic membrane after puncture have failed. 

Solution

The Amnioseal project is advancing the concept of pre-sealing the amniotic membrane prior to puncture by depositing a novel bio-inspired polymer adhesive in the space between the myometrium and the amniotic membrane. Using a novel guided delivery device, the glue is deposited and the device advanced through the Amnioseal patch and adherent membrane into the amniotic space for diagnosis or therapy. When the instrument is withdrawn, the Amnioseal patch self-seals the membrane defect, preventing membrane dissection away from the uterine wall and subsequent preterm labor.

Funding

CTSI Catalyst (Fall 2012)

Featured Media

A Glue Inspired by Mussels Could Save Lives - Food & Wine - August 22, 2017
Fetal Surgery Stands to Advance From New Glues Inspired By Mussels - UCSF Surgical Innovations - July 8, 2016