Respira: Wearable Lung Health Monitoring

A Novel Wearable for Continuous Lung Function Monitoring

In recent years, wearable technology has expanded to encompass a wide range of physiological measurements. However, assessing lung capacity remains a comparatively specialized area. Sylvee, a newly developed wearable device from Respira Labs, offers continuous monitoring of lung function. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like COPD and asthma, as well as those experiencing temporary reductions in respiratory capability.

The Sylvee device is affixed to the lower rib cage and is designed to provide effortless, ongoing assessment of lung function without requiring forced exhalation. The wearable patch incorporates both speakers and microphones to detect alterations in acoustic resonance.

How Sylvee Works: Acoustic Resonance Technology

The core technology behind Sylvee is remarkably innovative. The device emits sound through its integrated speakers and then utilizes the microphones to analyze the resulting acoustic patterns.

The underlying principle is that the presence of air cavities influences sound quality, analogous to the difference in sound produced when tapping a drumhead before and after it's filled with material. Naturally, healthy lungs contain air cavities. The device processes the collected data to quantify lung volume, capacity, airflow rate, and the amount of air trapped within the lungs.

Scientific Basis and Potential Impact

Dr. Maria Artunduaga, founder and CEO of Respira Labs, explains the scientific foundation: “Well-established science demonstrates that air trapping can be measured with over 90% accuracy using low-frequency sound. Distinct differences exist in the acoustic resonance spectra of COPD patients compared to healthy individuals.”

She further emphasizes the potential benefits: “With more than 100 million Americans affected by COPD, COVID-19, and asthma, coupled with an aging population, the ability to remotely and accurately monitor lung function and identify problems early is potentially life-saving. Our aim is to detect abnormalities promptly, facilitate earlier home-based treatment, and empower patients to proactively manage their health.”

Sylvee is positioned on the ribcage. It generates sound and captures the resonance of the lungs to evaluate respiratory health. Illustration: Respira Labs

Inspired by Personal Experience

The Sylvee device is named in honor of Artunduaga’s grandmother, who suffered from COPD and passed away following a rapid deterioration of her condition that went undetected.

“The device supports early diagnosis and management of acute respiratory decline, a critical concern for patients with respiratory illnesses. We deliver essential information to both physicians and patients, enabling timely medical adjustments and preventing hospitalizations,” Dr. Artunduaga stated. “My grandmother’s experience – a sudden exacerbation of COPD symptoms leading to her tragic death – motivated me to leave my medical practice and dedicate myself to developing Sylvee, as this is a sadly common outcome.”

Clinical Trials and Future Outlook

Respira Labs is currently undertaking a large-scale clinical trial involving over 500 patients in the U.S. and internationally, with the goal of achieving 90% accuracy in air trapping measurement.

The company also plans to publish its findings in leading medical journals by late 2022. Currently in the prototype phase, the device is anticipated to receive FDA clearance within the next 18 months.