The application of vortex airflow to continuous positive airway pressure CPAP therapy

Project Abstract:

Engineers at University of Cincinnati are developing a VortexPAP machine that takes advantage of vortex airflow Unlike the continuous airflow eg CPAP that is characterized by the continuous motion of air particle along specific path lines vortex airflow is pulsating and made of a train of vortices In current CPAP therapy a compromised seal with the patients face results in most of the continuous airflow leaking out from the mask instead of entering the upper airway thus reducing the effective pressure to splint the airway On the other hand when vortex airflow is directed toward the nostrils the majority will enter the airway negating the need for the tightfitting mask Preliminary studies have shown that VortexPAP can efficiently deliver airflow to patients without using a mask and that patients greatly preferred the VortexPAP device to CPAP machines The current project will take a significant step toward commercialization through development and verification of an ergonomic VortexPAP design

Program:

NCAI

Disease Area:

Sleep

Project Completion Status:

Completed

Center Hub:

NCAI-CC

Indication:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

University/Institution:

University of Cincinnati

Technology:

Therapeutic device

Startup Name:

Contact:

Vara Prasad [email protected]