The Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow is currently testing a wireless device that could aid in diagnosing respiratory and sleep conditions in babies and young children.
This pilot study will involve monitoring 75 infants from the sleep clinic unit and 75 from the neonatal unit at the Royal Hospital for Children using a device provided by digital therapeutics company PneumoWave.
Known as the ‘Paediatric advanced respiratory service’ (PARS), this trial has been developed by the West of Scotland Innovation Hub, in collaboration with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and PneumoWave.
The device, specially designed for children, utilizes wearable biosensors and mobile app-based software to analyze infants’ breathing in real-time during sleep.
About the size of a 50 pence coin and half an inch thick, the sensor is applied using an adhesive pad.
The study is expected to last until October 2025 to assess the device’s tolerance among young patients and its potential for future use.
Dr. Ross Langley, a pediatric respiratory consultant at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, stated, “Detecting and monitoring respiratory issues in children and newborns can be difficult, as current in-hospital devices are invasive and poorly tolerated by children.”
“We are excited to have the PARS project undergo an initial study with patients as we explore new methods for diagnosing sleep and respiratory conditions in young children,” Dr. Langley added.
Kirsten Watson, CEO of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, expressed her satisfaction with the progress, stressing the importance of investing in innovative technology for vulnerable infants and children.
The project was funded by Innovate UK, with research infrastructure support from Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.
According to a press release, the PARS project has the potential to enhance remote monitoring and diagnostic accuracy for various conditions affecting children.
Dr. Bruce Henderson, CEO of PneumoWave, highlighted the company’s dedication to preventing early deaths, especially in children, and expressed gratitude for the support received from patients, hospital staff, and Innovate UK.
In addition, NHS Glasgow and Clyde recently announced the use of a head CT AI solution from Qure.ai to aid clinicians in making faster decisions regarding the care and management of patients with head injuries.
