Medical Devices

• 
• 
• 
• 

Vanderbilt researchers have created a new multi-organs-on-chip platform that comprises Perfusion Control systems, MicroFormulators, and MicroClinical Analyzers connected via fluidic networks. The real-time combination of multiple different solutions to create customized perfusion media and the analysis of the effluents from each well are both controlled by the intelligent use of a computer-operated system of pumps and valves. This permits, for the first time, a compact, low-cost system for creating a time-dependent drug dosage profile in a tissue system inside each well.

Vanderbilt researchers have developed a portable, non-invasive sensor system that can take measurements through the skin to provide insights into metabolic rate and energy expenditure outside of a clinical setting. Existing methods for estimating metabolic rate rely on comparisons between user-reported body parameters and population averages, which can result in inaccurate estimates. Additionally, existing portable devices that provide estimates of metabolic rate are limited by factors such as cost per use and frequency of measurement. The present technology overcomes these limitations and can be directly integrated with commercial wearable devices for an accurate assessment of metabolic rate.

A Vanderbilt clinician has developed a device capable of allowing a single practitioner to control both the needle and the catheter while using an ultrasound probe to place a nerve block. A nerve block involves the placement of anesthetic and other agents onto or near a nerve in order to temporarily disrupt the signal traveling along the nerve. To place a nerve block, a needle is inserted into the patient and a catheter is thread through the needle to inject the block. An ultrasound probe is used to identify placement of the catheter and nerve block. Current catheter advancement techniques require one clinician to hold the needle and control the catheter while a second person maneuvers the ultrasound probe to accurately deliver the nerve block. The proper placement of the nerve block is highly dependent on the coordination between the two individuals. Relying on a second individual can result in misplaced nerve blocks or prolong the placement process. The novel catheter advancer eliminates the need for a second clinician and makes the placement faster and more accurate.

A Vanderbilt researcher has developed a device to stimulate the palatoglossus muscle in order to treat sleep apnea. This has the potential to treat patients who have failed to succeed with current sleep apnea treatments.