Trach Sense: CO2 Sensing Tracheostomy Tube
A tracheostomy tube which incorporates a disposable remote CO2 sensing technology, which detects the levels of CO2 in exhaled air
Background
Pediatric tracheostomy is a life-saving procedure for children with severe respiratory compromise or upper-airway obstruction. Recently, Tracheostomies in children have increased due to advanced technology in hospitals. Children with medical complexity (CMC) who have undergone a tracheostomy represent a complex cohort of patients who have a sustained reliance on medical technology for long-term survival.
In the United States, more than 100,000 tracheostomies are performed annually with 4,000 of them being performed in children. The average complication rate for children is 40%. The most common complications are cutaneous lesions and granulomas. Mortality related to the procedure is 6% in children and is mainly related to cannula obstruction or accidental decannulation.
Technology Overview
Trach Sense is a wireless, light-weight compact accessory attachment for tracheostomy tubes. Trach Sense integrates low-power CO2 sensing circuitry, and remote communication capabilities. This technology identifies changes in CO2 respiration patterns, signaling emergencies within 20 seconds. It is universally designed for all tracheostomy tube sizes and adaptable for both pediatric and adult patients.
Benefits
Trach Sense addresses a critical need in pediatric healthcare, providing a reliable method to detect tracheostomy tube complications. The device may significantly improve emergency response times, potentially saving lives and reducing hospital readmissions. Its design caters to the unique requirements of pediatric patients, offering a more effective alternative to current monitoring methods like visual inspection, a capnograph or pulse oximetry. Trach Sense is crucial for ventilator-independent children unable to communicate emergencies, providing continuous, remote monitoring, significantly reducing emergency response time and the risk of severe injury or death. There are no products on the market like Trach Sense with a built-in CO2 sensor that confirms proper placement, and continuously monitors breathing by connecting to a mobile application for nurses and home caretakers.
Opportunity
CNH is actively seeking collaboration, partnerships, and licensing opportunities to further develop and commercialize this technology.