Bioresorbable acoustic patch for simultaneous sealing and early detection of gastric leakage

Gastric anastomotic leakage is a life-threatening postoperative complication that necessitates early detection and timely intervention. Implantable electronics offer direct access to deep tissue and enable accurate recognition of homeostatic imbalances yet are constrained by miniaturization, biodegradability, and power sustainability. Here, we propose an implantable-wearable integrated strategy for early detection of gastric anastomotic leakage. Specifically, a bioresorbable hydrogel patch serves as the sole implant, responding to gastric acid to modulate ultrasound echo signals in both time and frequency domains. This enables early leakage detection (within 1 hour) and millimeter-level spatial localization via a wearable ultrasound array. Meanwhile, the hydrogel patch exhibits acid-enhanced leak sealing capability and degrades naturally after the healing period, thereby eliminating the need for surgical removal. We confirmed its capabilities in spatiotemporal monitoring, anastomotic repair, and bioabsorbability in a rat gastric perforation model. Our system operates without complex electronic implants, highlighting its clinical potential for postoperative monitoring and management of gastric anastomotic leaks.