Dynatract, a dynamic abdominal wall traction system for the treatment of open abdomen, has been selected to take part in the Deep Tech Venture Builder (DTVB) programme by EIT Health, one of Europe’s largest healthcare innovation networks.
This is a medical device designed to address one of the most complex and high-risk surgical situations: the open abdomen. This procedure is used in cases of severe trauma or serious abdominal infections when it is not possible to close the abdominal wall after surgery.
The Dynatract project has been fully developed at the Marqués de Valdecilla Research Institute (IDIVAL). The Botín Foundation is participating as a Venture Builder, supporting the project promoters in refining the business model and preparing for its future market launch as a tech start-up.
Dynatract offers an innovative and effective solution: a traction system that applies controlled tension to the edges of the abdominal wall, allowing for progressive approximation and compatibility with Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT).
This advancement facilitates postoperative care, reduces tissue damage, shortens ICU stays, and could result in savings of up to €15,000 per patient.
The team is led by Federico Castillo, surgeon at the Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital (HUMV), and Patricia Zorrilla, engineer at IDIVAL.
Being one of the 17 projects selected in Europe for EIT Health’s DTVB programme represents a strategic opportunity for Dynatract, as it provides access to expert advice on clinical and regulatory development (CE and FDA certifications), refinement of the prototype and production of the first clinical series, acceleration towards clinical trials and market preparation, and participation in a European network of mentors, investors, and leading hospitals — key for its positioning in the international market.
According to Patricia Zorrilla, “with Dynatract we are transforming a complex surgical challenge into a safer and more efficient solution, improving outcomes for both patients and healthcare systems.”
This recognition by EIT Health strengthens IDIVAL’s commitment to applied clinical innovation and consolidates its role as a driver of projects capable of delivering real impact in healthcare.
Photo caption: From left to right: Gerardo García, Fernando Quevedo, Patricia Zorrilla, engineers at IDIVAL, and Federico Castillo, surgeon at HUMV.
