Beyond Lymph Link:
A Bigger Solution​
Our project is part of a larger, collaborative effort. To address previous limitations, our sponsor lab is developing a proprietary imaging system for safe thoracic duct access. A prior team that designed a lymphatic drainage pump, Lymph Link enables clinical intervention. Together, this integrated solution targets a $1B+ unmet market in diuretic-resistant HF patients.
Thoracic Duct Drainage Port for Congestive Heart Failure Patients
Patients with impaired lymphatic drainage need a way to reduce volume overload and provide continuous access to lymphatic fluid to enable therapeutic intervention​
Why hasn't anyone done this before?
Due to the thoracic duct’s intricate anatomy and limited imaging capabilities, current treatment approaches rely primarily on pharmacological therapy or invasive procedures.
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Enables effective lymphatic drainage via the thoracic duct (~3.34 L/day), supporting clinical intervention
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Lymphatic-specific catheter with Dacron cuff ensures secure, stable device placement
Device Claims:
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Improves outcomes in HF patients with lymphatic volume overload
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Addresses a $1B+ market of diuretic-resistant HF patients, meeting a significant unmet need
Development Timeline
August – Initiation
Initial meeting with sponsor to define project scope, objectives, and clinical need, establishing the foundation for development and collaboration.
2025
September – Literature Review
Conducted extensive literature review to build understanding of lymphatic anatomy, physiology, and its role in heart failure.
October – Initial Design Concepts
Developed and 3D-modeled four preliminary port concepts, exploring design feasibility and functionality.
November – Tech Symposium I
Presented Lymph Link at a university symposium, sharing early concepts and receiving feedback from peers and faculty.
December – Anatomical Analysis
Visited UT Health to use the anatomical software to identify thoracic duct landmarks and optimize device placement strategy.
August - Initiation
2026
January – Design Finalization
Incorporated clinician feedback to refine and finalize the Lymph Link design for improved usability and performance.
February – Prototype Manufacturing
Fabricated stainless steel prototypes and SLA prints for testing, validation, and iterative design improvements.
March – Preclinical Observation
Observed sponsor-led imaging studies in porcine models and performed initial implantation testing to evaluate feasibility.
April – Final Validation & Presentation Prep
Conducted verification testing, finalized poster and materials, and prepared for final presentation and project delivery.
May – Next Steps
Continue design verification testing, initiate porcine studies in conjunction with the imaging system, and further investigate lymphatic system physiology to support clinical translation and device optimization.