Researchers from University of Pittsburgh have developed a device designed to collect exhaled respiratory aerosols from mechanically ventilated patients. This device is designed to be non-invasive, highly efficient and can be readily placed in the exhalation line of ventilators without interfering in the functions of the ventilator.
Description
VAP can be difficult to diagnosis. Current approaches involve cultures of endotracheal aspirate or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). However, endotracheal aspirate by contaminated by upper airway secretions The collection of BAL is less prone to contamination, but it is invasive and unable to be repeated frequently.
A common complication in mechanically ventilated patients (MVPs) is ventilator associated pneumonias (VAP), which can lead to increased stays in ICU, poorer outcomes, and increased medical costs. Rates of VAPs in MVPs are particularly high in those with COVID-19 (>50%). Early treatment is key to improving outcomes and requires timely and efficient detection and identification of the pathogens. This device aims to improve outcomes in VAP patients through better monitoring of infection.
Applications
• Early identification and treatment of VAPs
• Reduction of airborne pathogens in ICU settings through early identification and treatment of patients
• Continuous monitoring of biomarkers associated with lung injury
Advantages
VAP can be difficult to diagnosis. Current approaches involve cultures of endotracheal aspirate or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). However, endotracheal aspirate by contaminated by upper airway secretions The collection of BAL is less prone to contamination, but it is invasive and unable to be repeated frequently.
This device is designed to be non-invasive, allowing for frequent sample collection and with the ability to collect samples from the upper respiratory tract (larger aerosols) and the deep lung (small aerosols) independently of each other. Aerosol samples will be collected in laboratory vials allowing for simple sample preparation for analysis. This device could facilitate safe, non-invasive, frequent, and convenient monitoring of MVPs for VAP.
Invention Readiness
A functional prototype has been developed and is being tested mechanically in laboratory settings and with healthy volunteers.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2024077040A1
