Revolutionary device could transform newborn care with innovative dual-sensor technology | United Kingdom | News

A lifesaving device that monitors the quality of newborns’ breathing has the potential to transform neonatal care.

The patented British-made product combines two sensors into one smaller device. One measures the amount of air flowing in and out of the lungs and the other measures the carbon dioxide expelled, which shows how efficiently the lungs are working.

Too much carbon dioxide can irreversibly harm the brain.

The device, manufactured and manufactured by Europlaz in Chelmsford, Essex, is being used in trials at Barts NHS Trust, one of the most prestigious teaching hospitals in the world.

Frede Jensen, Head of Product Development, said: “We are faced with the smallest of lives. It is therefore imperative to provide clinical teams with the best possible technology to help them do their work. “This innovation does just that with the side sampling port providing the stable and accurate exhaled carbon dioxide readings they need to better inform the child’s care and level of ventilation required.”

“Before, the two sensors had to be placed next to each other, which was like having a baby breathe through a very long snorkel, making it more difficult to ensure that the carbon dioxide was getting out. escapes from the path.

“Our new sensor makes the ‘snorkel’ much shorter and checks that babies are excreting the right amount of carbon dioxide to stay safe and healthy.

The device will be used to continuously monitor babies born prematurely or in distress, reducing the risk of long-term illnesses such as cerebral palsy or lung disease.

Sick or premature newborns are treated in neonatal intensive care units where they receive 24-hour care by a team of specialized experts using cutting-edge technology. How long a baby stays in the NICU depends on their condition. Some stay for weeks or months.

Mr Jensen added: “Europlaz has been manufacturing neonatal flow sensors for over 10 years and we have sold over a million to date – all without a sampling port. This needs to change, and we believe that when one hospital or manufacturer takes this path, others will follow.

“It just makes too much sense not to.” Why not upgrade to a product that gives you greater clarity, better control and a greater chance of saving a baby’s life?

“There is also a financial element, with 60% of NHS Resolution’s £9bn accountability budget spent in 2018/19 on dealing with cases involving maternity care.”