Celebrating 20 years of the NIHR at the UHB Research Showcase

The NIHR HRC-DDR and MD-TEC join researchers at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital to share our latest work

Our team were proud take part in the University Hospitals Birmingham (UHB) Research Showcase at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, held in honour of International Clinical Trials Day and marking the landmark milestone of 20 years of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Two decades of the NIHR represents an extraordinary journey of discovery, collaboration, and patient impact across the UK.

Using medical device prototypes and one of our patient simulators, we presented our most recent collaborations. Projects included the development of a device that gets applied to the tummy to listen to bowel sounds. After major abdominal surgery, it is common for the bowel to temporarily stop working normally. For most patients, bowel function returns within a few days, but for some, recovery can take longer and may lead to additional complications and a longer hospital stay. To help better understand and monitor recovery, a new tummy sensor is being developed for patients who have undergone bowel surgery. The sensor is worn on the abdomen and listens to bowel sounds, providing valuable information about how the gut is recovering after surgery.

By identifying patients who are likely to recover quickly, healthcare teams can focus on supporting them to regain their strength and return home sooner. At the same time, the technology may help clinicians identify patients who need additional monitoring and care, enabling more personalised recovery support.

“We had a brilliant day at the research showcase, sharing the latest updates from our work with the community and celebrating the exciting research taking place at UHB. We were also proud to contribute to the 20 years of NIHR celebrations and are looking forward to everything the next year has bring!”

Olivia Brookes, NIHR HRC-DDR Programme Manager.

The showcase was a fantastic opportunity to highlight how we support the development of health technologies and guide partners through the innovation ecosystem. The event allowed us to connect with patients and members of staff, sparking conversations and raising awareness of the vital research within the UHB community. Thank you to all those who organised and participated in the day, we already can’t wait for next year!