Results from the first observational study evaluating ExoStat Medical’s MicroTREND System suggest that oral mucosal partial pressure of carbon dioxide (POMCO2) may serve as an early indicator of septic shock in critically ill patients.
The study assessed the clinical relevance of POMCO2 monitoring at the bedside, focusing on its use in identifying microcirculatory tissue perfusion issues associated with early shock states.
Conducted in the intensive care unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University in Hefei, China, the study enrolled 23 patients diagnosed with septic shock. Investigators monitored POMCO2 levels in real time using the MicroTREND System and compared the data to current care standards, including serum lactate, which is widely used to assess tissue perfusion.
Researchers concluded that data captured through the MicroTREND System could complement traditional macrohemodynamic metrics used in critical care.
ExoStat Medical CEO Jim Hays said: “This study achieved the ultimate objective of ExoStat’s mission which was to provide microcirculatory perfusion awareness to physicians who treat the sickest of the sick.
“We are excited to embark now on our second phase of pre-market clinical testing being planned with iconic research institutions where we will focus on achieving a better understanding of the effect of current standards of care on microcirculation. These are exciting times indeed.”
The MicroTREND System is a non-invasive monitoring device that has received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It uses electro-conductance technology and a disposable sensor that is placed on the inner cheek to track POMCO2 levels, eliminating the need for catheters, blood draws, or laboratory delays.
By focusing on oral mucosal tissue, the system allows for continuous and direct measurement of tissue perfusion at the microcirculatory level. ExoStat Medical designed the platform to detect early changes that occur in septic shock, which can progress rapidly if not addressed.
Headquartered in Prior Lake, Minnesota, the company specialises in non-invasive medical technologies for use in critical care settings. This observational study marks the first time the efficacy of POMCO2 as monitored through the oral mucosa has been investigated in an ICU setting using the MicroTREND System.
