Wearable Ultrasound for Imaging and Modulation

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common clinical condition that affects close to 30 million Americans. To overcome patient non-compliance and discomfort associated with current OSA treatments, we have developed SONOSA, a wearable device that can remotely diagnose, monitor, and treat OSA using ultrasound alone. As a diagnostic device, SONOSA can eliminate the expensive, in-hospital equipment required for polysomnography. SONOSA can directly measure airway collapse and send data to physicians. Once diagnosed, SONOSA can also utilize ultrasound to stimulate the hypoglossal nerve, which leads to tongue repositioning and reopening of the airway in most OSA patients. The objectives of this proposal will include the design and fabrication of a prototype with parallel functions: (i) ultrasound imaging of airway collapse during OSA, (ii) ultrasound stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve. Phase I deliverables will include a market assessment and the following deliverables for each of the three independent device functions: (i) modeling and simulations of expected imaging and acoustic energy delivery capabilities including power, pressure, frequency, spatial and temporal resolution specifications; (ii) testing of modeled capabilities by the prototype in a phantom system; (iii) prototype performance metrics, and identification and plan to address deficiencies to be optimized in Phase II.