Challenge
Laryngeal masks are an effective way to ensure oxygen supply during surgery and are becoming standard-of-care. However, in 7.5% of the cases a laryngeal mask is used, an air leak develops during surgery. This causes an insufficient supply of air and an increased aspiration risk for the patient. In those cases, conversion to intubation may be necessary. Intubation is more invasive and causes aadditional physical stress and complications for patients, as well as prolongation of rotation time.
Opportunity
Solution
Anesthesiologist Khaled Rafiqpoor has developed the LarynxLock: a smart and effective device that prevents air leaks from occurring when using a laryngeal mask. By applying upwards pressure to the soft tissue of the bottom of the mouth, the internal anatomical shape is restored and leakage minimized. Patients are provided with sufficient air supply during the surgery and interruption of surgery or intubation is avoided.
Prevents air leaks and subsequent complications during surgery, lowers physical strain on patients and prevents prolongation of rotation time. A smart, cost-effective solution.
Status
Patent pending: 2023830 Ventilation assembly and harness
Meet the team
Khaled Rafiqpoor
Inventor
Taco van der Feltz
Venture Partner at NLC
Taco joined NLC in 2015 and is a highly international and networked entrepreneur trained as Medical Doctor and Medical Biologist. He is a visionary strategist conversant within and across disciplines. As Venture Partner, Taco focuses on building innovative companies and strengthening NLC’s abilities to bring innovations to healthcare.