Technology

Injection of drugs and fillers into the vocal tissues is a commonly used procedure for the treatment of vocal disorders such as atrophy, paralysis, granulomas, tremors, and vocal nodules. Fillers commonly include gels, pastes, and biomaterials, as well as pharmacological agents like Botulinum Toxin. The procedure can be performed in the provider’s office and involves manually inserting needles into the vocal tissue to deliver the desired treatment agent. However, due to poor precision of needle insertion, patients often require multiple visits for repeated injections. As a result, the rate of injection-related side effects increases as does the overall cost of the procedure.

The technology herein describes a customizable and handheld bioprinting device that can deliver biomaterials, hydrogels, cell therapies, and pharmaceutical agents directly to the vocal cords. It comprises a reservoir chamber for holding and mixing the desired therapeutic agent. The reservoir is attached to a nozzle array of inner and outer needles responsible for delivering a therapeutic agent into the vocal tissues. Enhanced delivery precision and the ability to utilize a wide variety of biomaterials could decrease complications, reduce the overall cost of treatment and improve treatment outcomes.

Potential Application

This technology can be used as a new treatment for medical conditions affecting the vocal tissue, including but not limited to atrophy, paralysis, granulomas, tremors, and vocal nodules.

Opportunity

In the United States, over 80 million people experience at least one voice-related problem each year, with less than one percent seeking treatment due to the limitations of current procedures. The global market size for voice conditions, such as vocal paralysis, is expected to exceed $2.9 billion by 2024 at a CAGR of 2.3 percent.  America dominates the market share due to the availability of new treatment options and reimbursement. Further development of this technology could yield a new injection modality that improves the treatment of vocal diseases while decreasing the risks and costs associated with treatment.

Rowan University is looking for a partner for further development and commercialization of this technology through a license.