11 Health, a company based in the UK, has developed a novel sensor-based technology called Ostom-i Alert to help warn patients when their ostomy bags are full so they can empty them without risking an overflow. Ostom-i Alert addresses a very relevant need for patients who undergo intestinal procedures that require them to wear colostomy bags, often for the rest of their lives. These bags are prone to overflows and leaks causing embarrassment to the patient and caregivers.

The sensor-based Ostom-i Alert attaches to any ostomy bag and is able to send messages via Bluetooth to a mobile app to warn the patient when their bags are close to being full. The sensor also tracks the volume of output over a particular period of time and allows this information to be transmitted through email to the patient or caregiver. The volume output is also available on the company’s website and accessible to the patient through a secure login. The device allows the user to alter the alarm limits on the app depending on the users’ body position over an extended period of time. For instance, when the patient is laying down, the bag may seem less full than it was while the patient was standing up; in such a case, the patient can set the alarm limit to be lower when the patient is laying down than when the patient is standing up.

Ostom-i Alert is a single use device that can be used for upto three months. The device is approved by the FDA as a Class 1 medical device.

source:11 Health