Researchers at Empa (Zurich, Switzerland; www.empa.ch) and ETH Zurich (Zurich, SwitzerTand; www.ethz.ch) have developed a new hydrogel-polymer patch that prevents highly acidic digestive juices and bacteria-laden food residues from escaping the digestive tract,following abdominal surgery. 

This can avert peritonitis or potentially life-threatening blood poisoning (sepsis). What sets this patch apart  is the integration of non-electronic sensors that sound an “alarm" before digestive juices can leak into the abdominal cavity. 

Moreover, these  patches can be customized with sensors designed for various parts  of the digestive tract.Additionally, if required, the patch can release  medication like antibacterial agents.

lmage: The sensor patch can withstand several times the pressure in the abdominal cavity (Photo courtesy of Empa)