Wearable Baroreflex Activation Collar for Non-Invasive Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external neck chamber devices for assessing and modulating baroreflex function are cumbersome, uncomfortable, and limited to research settings due to their size and noise, hindering their clinical and therapeutic applications.
Innovation Solution
Development of portable, wearable collar devices that apply positive or negative pressure to the carotid sinus region for non-invasive baroreflex activation and deactivation, utilizing advanced electronics, sensors, and algorithms for closed-loop control to assess patient status and deliver targeted therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external neck chamber devices are used to assess baroreflex function, then baroreflex function can be assessed, but the devices are cumbersome, heavy, and uncomfortable for patients
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent inflatable chambers (first chamber for carotid sinus region, second chamber for jugular vein region) that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows targeted pressure application to specific anatomical regions, improving assessment precision while distributing the device's physical presence to enhance comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the neck device have different functional properties - the first chamber applies pressure to the carotid sinus for baroreflex stimulation, while the second chamber manages jugular vein pressure. This local differentiation optimizes the assessment function in each specific region while adapting to the unique anatomical and comfort requirements of different neck areas.
2Measurement precision
If traditional neck chamber devices are used, then baroreflex assessment is possible, but the pressure generators are large and noisy
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure generation function is extracted from the main wearable collar device and placed in an external portable unit. This separation allows the collar to remain simple and comfortable for the patient while the pressure generation capabilities are provided by a separate, manageable unit that can be positioned away from the patient's body, reducing noise exposure and simplifying the wearable portion.
Solution Approach 2:
A portable external unit serves as an intermediary between the power source and the patient's neck. This intermediary contains the pressure generation mechanisms and can be positioned optimally for operation, transmitting only the necessary pressure through tubing to the collar chambers, thereby isolating the noise and complexity from the patient.
3Measurement precision
If prior neck chamber devices are used for research studies, then baroreflex function can be evaluated, but they are restricted to academic centers and cannot be used in clinical settings
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions - it can assess baroreflex function, apply controlled pressure to specific neck regions, and integrate with various monitoring systems. This multi-functionality makes it adaptable to different clinical scenarios and settings, moving beyond research-only applications to broader clinical utility including patient diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated control algorithms that can independently regulate pressure application based on real-time physiological feedback from baroreflex responses. This self-regulating capability reduces the need for constant researcher intervention and simplifies operation for clinical personnel, enabling deployment in routine clinical settings rather than specialized research centers.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables convenient, non-invasive modulation of baroreflex function for diagnostic and therapeutic applications outside clinical settings, providing routine measurement and personalized treatment for various disease conditions, including hypertension and heart failure, with improved patient comfort and effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
causing the pressure generator to deliver a baroreflex activation regimen to the patient via application of positive or negative pneumatic pressure through the plurality of ports in the baroreflex activation device
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2
AI summary
Devices, systems and methods for non-invasive modulation of the baroreflex system of a patient. In embodiments, the present disclosure may be used to measure and monitor baroreflex function for diagnostic purposes in patients acutely or chronically to inform and guide medical treatment, assess disease severity, or assess morbidity/mortality risk. In embodiments, the present disclosure may be used to provide non-invasive baroreflex activation therapy acutely or chronically to treat a variety of disease conditions through rebalancing of the sympathetic and parasympathetic limbs of the autonomic nervous system and their connections to higher brain centers.