Research and Development of a “Blind” Esophageal Food Bolus Disimpaction Device

Esophageal food bolus impaction (EFBI) occurs when peristalsis fails and food becomes stuck within the esophagus. Without resolution, the patient is at risk of bolus aspiration, inability to clear oral secretions, dehydration, esophageal perforation, and possibly death. This is a common occurrence that requires emergent diagnosis and management, with approximately 10-20% of cases requiring endoscopic intervention [1]. The endoscope toolkit consists of the scope camera, a channel that allows for passage of therapeutic tools such as graspers that can slowly tease off bits of the bolus, roth nets for bolus capture, and CRE balloons that can dilate the lumen but do not allow the scope or other tools to pass. A better equipped device would be capable of a retrograde path for bolus removal without the need for camera guidance or gastroenterologist operational expertise. With EFBI being one of the most common non-biliary GI emergencies, there is a strong interest from clinicians to have more effective tools.