King George’s Medical University (KGMU) has achieved a significant milestone in pediatric healthcare innovation with the recent grant of a design registration patent for its newly developed Infant Feeding Tube (IFT) Uro Bag Connector. This novel device is designed to streamline the process of urine collection in newborns, a procedure that has historically posed considerable difficulties for healthcare professionals.
The patent, which was officially filed in February 2025, recognizes the unique design and utility of the connector developed by KGMU’s Department of Pediatrics in collaboration with biomedical engineers. The device enables the attachment of a standard adult uro bag to an infant feeding tube, thereby creating a secure and hygienic pathway for collecting urine from neonates.
Hospital officials highlighted that until now, urine collection in infants has remained a problematic area in clinical practice due to the lack of compatible systems. Traditional methods were not only cumbersome but also increased the risk of contamination and inaccuracies, often leading to repeated attempts and discomfort for the baby.
“The innovation addresses a longstanding gap in pediatric care,” said a senior KGMU pediatrician involved in the development. “Our design ensures a snug and sterile connection between the infant feeding tube and the uro bag, facilitating easier, safer, and more efficient urine collection.”
The device’s simplicity is one of its standout features. It eliminates the need for improvisation with existing equipment, which often led to unreliable setups and increased the burden on medical staff. With this connector, practitioners can now use readily available uro bags in a controlled and secure manner, reducing both procedural time and infection risks.
Officials from KGMU also emphasized the broader implications of the device, particularly in rural and resource-constrained healthcare settings. Since the connector utilizes components already commonly available in most hospitals, its adoption does not require additional infrastructural investment.
“This invention is not just a technological solution; it’s a step toward equitable and effective neonatal care,” said a spokesperson for the university’s innovation cell. “It exemplifies how simple yet thoughtful designs can transform clinical outcomes.”
The patent grant marks another feather in the cap for KGMU, which has been steadily expanding its footprint in medical research and innovation. The university is now exploring partnerships with manufacturers to produce the IFT-Uro Bag Connector at scale and make it widely accessible across healthcare institutions in India and potentially beyond.
With the successful patent registration, KGMU plans to initiate training modules and awareness campaigns to familiarize healthcare workers with the device, ensuring its effective integration into routine pediatric care.