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Nikhil L. Shah // Nephrodite, Inc. // HollyTM
Nephrodite, Inc.
Human expansion: Artificial organ

Millions of people die of kidney failure every year…

and while most patients do not have access to kidney replacement therapy, the global dialysis population is growing rapidly - especially in low-income and middle-income countries. Despite the increase in patients, dialysis continues to bear a high burden on people who depend on it: Patients report a number of negative side effects and a low quality of life, suffer from a shortened life expectancy as well as an increased risk for infections and other diseases.

 

Meanwhile, there has been little to no innovation in kidney care since the introduction of dialysis around 80 years ago. Patients and relatives now demand improved value in dialysis care, which can only result from a patient-centered approach.

 

To increase the mobility of people in need of dialysis and hence improve their independence and overall quality of life, Nephrodite Inc. has made it their goal to create functional kidney replacement solutions.

HollyTM sets new standards in the field of medical technology...

Not only is this invention one of just a few devices in the field of artificial kidneys to ever be developed, but it also combines several different, highly complex technologies. This includes an implanted sensor, which allows measurements of the patients' blood values and enables remote interaction from the individual patient as well as their care team. Capturing critical data makes detailed and individual preventive care possible.

 

HollyTM has the potential to become one of the most impactful innovations in the field of kidney dialysis as it combines the principles of different methods: The implantation of a mechanical pump filters toxins, simultaneously fluid is exchanged without involving the abdomen or requiring the creation of an arteriovenous access. Additionally, a tube is emanating from the internal device, connecting it to an external dialysate reservoir worn on a medical grade vest or backpack.

 

By using HollyTM, we eliminate the need for “in- center” hemodialysis and reduce immobility required for home as well as peritoneal dialysis. In addition, we improve over-all health compared to standard intermitten dialysis, which can be associated with complications such as infected arm grafts and fistulas.

Everything started with the heart LVAD…

(Left Ventricular Assist Device), which has been proven to function for extended periods in situ. We were immediately inspired to modify the concept of the LVAD to serve as an implanted renal replacement device.

 

And while we were working on our innovation, we met Holly: She was a young patient suffering from severe complications related to her vascular arm access, a peritoneal catheter-related infection, and insurmountable delays in obtaining a transplant. Her story influences us to this day and motivates us to strive for perfection – so that we can help patients like Holly, which is why we named our innovation after her.

 

It is our mission to deliver a fully implantable continuous hemodialysis solution that mitigates the need for time-intensive hemo- and/or peritoneal dialysis. A device that increases patients’ quality of life while also improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs per-patient. In doing so, we come one step closer to our goal of developing patient-inspired renal care solutions bringing individuals greater health, increased mobility, and the freedom to live their life to the fullest – regardless of their wealth or demographic backgrounds.

Hello, I am Dr. Nikhil L. Shah…

and I am a Urologist trained especially in kidney transplantation as well as surgical oncology. During my career I have performed thousands of minimal access and robotic procedures with specific focus in genitourinary oncology and urinary tract reconstruction. Due to my interest and broad expertise in digital surgery, artificial intelligence, advanced-integrated imaging, and automation I had the opportunity to work in various highly respected executive leadership roles at a variety of different institutions. I consider it one of my most important tasks to inform others about the benefits of a patient-centred approach and to share my knowledge in this field.