The device, designed to prevent internal bleeding from a stab wound, contains a tamponade and an actuator. (Image Credit: Loughborough University)
Joseph Bentley, a Loughborough University student, recently developed REACT, a 3D-printed prototype that prevents further blood loss from a serious knife-inflicted stab wound. Stab wounds could turn out to be a matter of life or death, so it’s crucial to apply immediate internal pressure. REACT (Rapid Emergency Actuated Tamponade) is specifically designed around that same principle.
This device consists of a medical-grade silicone sleeve, called a tamponade, and an actuator. It also features a side and rear user interface and side LEDs. An object transfixed in a stab wound should remain in place because it applies internal pressure. However, emergency responders can use the REACT device on an open wound. First, they place the tamponade inside the wound and connect the actuator through a valve. Lastly, they use the device to specify the body’s wound area. After determining its location, the actuator inflates to a specific pressure, preventing internal bleeding.
REACT targets armpit, groin, and abdomen stab wounds. (Image Credit: Loughborough University)
Currently, REACT targets wounds located in the armpit, groin, and abdomen, an area that paramedics and emergency responders find difficult to treat. Joseph’s inspiration behind this device comes from knowing people who fell victim to knife crime.
“I know several friends who have been the unfortunate victims of knife crime; thankfully none of the incidents were fatal,” Joseph explained. “I am haunted almost daily by news of someone who has lost their lives because of knife crime; there were five murders in three days this spring bank holiday. It’s horrifying.”
“The simple application and automated inflation procedure of the REACT system makes it a game-changer for first responders,” he continued. “The tamponade can be in place and stopping a hemorrhage in under a minute, saving hundreds of lives a year, and as the tamponade is suitable for large cavities like the abdomen, it is also easier and faster to remove than current methods used to stop bleeding, giving the patient the best chance in reconstructive surgery.”
Now, Joseph is exploring ways to continue developing REACT. He wants to make it accessible for other wound areas on the body, perfect the required tamponade’s air pressure, and make it internally battery-powered.
“Medical device development takes a long time, but hopefully, in a few years, the REACT system will be used to control the bleeding in victims of knife crime and save lives,” says Joseph. “I’m hoping one day it will be carried by all emergency services - police, ambulance staff, even the military, but the absolute goal is to get this product in use as soon as possible.”
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