Technical assessment of a low cost multi-powered continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device

Abstract

Worldwide, more than one in 10 babies are born premature [1]. Eleven countries, have preterm birth rates of more than 15%. Prematurity (born before 37 weeks of gestation) is closely linked to acute respiratory infections, which is, a leading cause of death in children under 5 years [2]. Because their lungs are underdeveloped, preemies are especially susceptible to respiratory problems. One such leading cause of global child mortality is Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS). Current technology (recommended by WHO) is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), which helps in keeping the alveoli open by providing continuous supply of regulated air/oxygen. This ensures that the babies always have residual air in the lungs, thus, they do not struggle to breathe and are saved of further complications such as hypoxia and even death. A stand-alone CPAP device cost upwards of INR 150,000 ($2300) which is too expensive for most developing world hospitals. In most the hospitals in the resource constrained settings, nasal oxygen therapy is often the solution available, for the babies who are suffering from the respiratory distress. Coeo Labs have developed, Saans is a multi-powered, low-cost, and easy to use CPAP device, which is used to maintain constant residual air pressure in the lungs of neonates and infants (to prevent collapse of the alveoli) while they are being transferred to a higher center for advanced care or in any other clinical setting. The advantage that Saans has over other CPAP devices, is that it can operate on various modes of power, including manual mode (in cases where electricity or compressed oxygen is not available) and is available at 1/3rd to 1/5th the cost of CPAP devices available currently. In this paper, the technical evaluation of Saans, as compared to other standard of care CPAP devices is described. Parameters for comparison have been output pressure and flow rates. These parameters have been obtained from a bench top study of product Saans. For other CPAP devices, the parameters are taken from product datasheets/specifications available in the public domain.