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Natural sciences
- Macromolecular and materials chemistry not elsewhere classified
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Medical and health sciences
- Rhinology
- Respiratory medicine not elsewhere classified
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Engineering and technology
- Biomaterials engineering not elsewhere classified
The aim of this project is to design and fabricate a clinically relevant polymer-based stent for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). CRS is a umbrella term used for a wide array of inflammatory disorders in the nose and the paranasal sinuses that cause the sinus ducts to congest. The blockage of the sinuses, creating breading conditions for bacteria, viruses and fungi and greatly reduce the quality of life for patients associated with an annual cost of more $23 billion in US only. The final surgical resort for patients is the Draf III procedure with an average of 3,5 re-operations required because of high occurance of partial or complete stenosis narrowing or closing the newly created cavity due to aberrant wound healing. Currently there are no stents on the market to treat patients undergoing these procedures.