STOMACAP: Reimagining Stoma Management

The evolution of the Stomasense device arising from POC 2 (No.415) has seen the core unit transform from a simple leak detection device to a sensing platform capable of monitoring a range of physical and biochemical parameters. Excluding the recent advances in leak detection sensors, innovation in ostomy appliances has been largely stagnant for 25 years. As such, no products exist to provide diagnostic information (e.g. electrolytes, pH, volume, inflammatory markers) on the nature of ileal effluent. StomaCap is an adaptation of the core Stomasense system and allows direct measurement of ileal output (volume and pH being model parameters). Output volume is critical in the early stages of recuperation from stoma surgery with dehydration and acute kidney injury being among the more common complications. StomaCap offers a discreet means of monitoring output that removes the guesswork or ambivalence that can lead to some 30% of patients being readmitted. This could ultimately provide UK NHS annual cost savings equating to almost £400 million. Predischarge institutional use of StomaCap allows for stoma function to be assessed while obviating the need for nursing time associated with conventional jug measurements. Post discharge, the small size of the StomaCap device allows it to be carried discreetly and thereby transforms the measurement process whether within domestic, social or occupational contexts.