Triboelectric metamaterial stents: self-powered motility monitoring in post-esophagectomy conduits

Anastomotic leaks following esophagectomy remain a major source of morbidity and mortality, yet current postoperative surveillance relies on intermittent imaging and clinical assessment, which may delay recognition. There is a paucity of objective, ongoing gastric conduit function monitoring. We suggest a self-powered stent made of triboelectric metamaterials that produce electrical signals by capturing mechanical energy from peristaltic motion. The conduit’s cyclic deformation generates measurable intraluminal pressure data that is wirelessly delivered for analysis in real time. Motility profiles that deviate from expectations may be early signs of anastomotic compromise. While earlier research validates the accuracy of intraluminal pressure monitoring in the gastrointestinal tract, recent developments in triboelectric nanogenerators and implantable biodegradable devices support the viability of this strategy. A unique approach to ongoing postoperative surveillance is provided by integrating triboelectric energy harvesting with stent design, which may enable earlier leak detection and improve patient outcomes.