Patch for detection and monitoring of COVID-19 symptoms fast tracked
LifeSignals has announced that a single use, wireless biosensor patch for the early detection and monitoring of coronavirus symptoms is being fast tracked for introduction within weeks.
Based on a platform for cardiovascular monitoring, the Biosensor Patch 1AX, affixed on the chest area, will record temperature, respiration rate, ECG trace, heart rate and movement – in real time. The data is sent wirelessly from the Patch to an app on the user’s phone, where the data is displayed in real-time. If symptoms develop, the data can also be sent to a secure cloud platform enabling healthcare authorities to introduce effective general population remote screening such as those placed under quarantine, patients in care home facilities or vulnerable, high risk people in their own homes.
LifeSignals is targeting June for the Patient Management Biosensor Patch 2A which captures, stores and streams clinical-grade vital signs data including SpO2. This will allow recovering coronavirus patients in intensive care units to be moved to lower dependency wards, off-site medical facilities and back to their own homes with the assurance that all of their vital sign data is being continually monitored in real-time. Allowing patients to be monitored in their own homes, Patch 2A based monitoring will assist in optimising the use of medical resources and free up hospital beds. At the onset of a patient’s vital signs showing deterioration, immediate action can be taken to avoid hospital re-admission.
This new-to-market biosensor technology is the first of its’ kind to overcome the restrictions of using wireless devices within a multi-patient hospital environment. The patches can be worn for up to five days and can be safely disposed, reducing the risk of cross-contamination of healthcare staff.
Surendar Magar, co-founder and CEO of LifeSignals, said: “As soon as the serious nature of the COVID-19 outbreak became apparent, we immediately started investigating where our wireless biosensor technology could help. We identified two key areas where healthcare systems are choked; consumers calling in about symptoms they are experiencing and lack of critical care hospital beds. We activated intense effort to leverage our existing technology to produce highly reliable products to address these two areas. In collaboration with regulatory authorities, our global teams are working hard to fast-track development and production of these two Patches which have the economics and manufacturability to reach mass populations. We believe these products will make a real difference to patients’ treatment and those who are delivering the care.”