New Clinical Study Validates Vapotherm's Unicorn™ Cannula for Efficient Respiratory Support

New Clinical Study Validates Vapotherm's Unicorn™ Cannula



Vapotherm, Inc., a pioneer in mask-free noninvasive respiratory support, is thrilled to share the outcomes of a transformative clinical trial published in Critical Care Explorations. The study's title, Effect of Single-Prong Cannula Design with High Velocity Therapy Comparable Efficacy at Lower Gas Flow Rates, elucidates the remarkable findings surrounding the ProSoft® Unicorn™ Cannula, a single-prong device capable of delivering high-velocity therapy. This innovative design has shown to provide effective alleviation of dyspnea at considerably reduced flow rates compared to standard dual-prong cannulas.

Study Overview and Findings



Led by Dr. Charles Atwood, the trial included 26 patients suffering from hypercapnic Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and employed a randomized crossover approach. The results were telling; participants using the Unicorn Cannula reported similar levels of relief from breathlessness at a median flow rate of merely 15 liters per minute (LPM), significantly lower than the 25 LPM required by conventional dual-prong systems.

Dr. Jessica Whittle, Chief Medical Officer at Vapotherm, articulated the significance of bore-size in nasal cannulas, stating, "By flushing the upper airway dead space with high velocity fresh gas, high-velocity therapy improves ventilation and diminishes the effort required for breathing." She added that the innovation of a single-prong cannula for adult patients opens opportunities for individuals facing anatomical challenges such as facial trauma or nasogastric tubes.

A New Standard in Efficiency



The implications of these findings reach a broad range of healthcare contexts. One of the most critical insights is the potential for oxygen conservation, positioning the Unicorn Cannula as an ideal choice for rural healthcare facilities and international medical environments. It is also particularly beneficial for patients expected to receive treatment at home, thus ensuring effective therapy while mitigating oxygen consumption.

Joe Army, the President and CEO of Vapotherm, expressed enthusiasm about the Unicorn Cannula’s ability to provide equivalent clinical benefits at lower flow rates. He noted that for facilities with limited oxygen supply and patient transfers within hospitals, this design offers a more sustainable and comfortable treatment alternative. The ability for patients to switch nostrils during the day also enhances comfort, leading to better compliance while maintaining effective clearance of carbon dioxide.

Key Study Takeaways



1. Equivalent Dyspnea Relief: The Unicorn Cannula achieved the same degree of dyspnea relief as dual-prong cannulas but at lower flow rates, showcasing impressive efficacy.
2. Enhanced Comfort and Versatility: This innovative single-prong design proves advantageous for patients with diverse needs, including those with facial deformities, trauma, or requiring nasogastric tubes.
3. Potential for Increased Compliance: The ability to alternate between nostrils reduces irritation, possibly increasing patient adherence for those requiring long-term care at home.

Expanding Clinical Applications



As documented in Critical Care Explorations, this study contributes to the expanding knowledge surrounding high-velocity therapy as a viable alternative to non-invasive ventilation for spontaneously breathing individuals. Healthcare professionals seeking deeper insights can access the complete publication to explore additional data and implications.

For further information on the Unicorn Cannula and its potential to enhance the quality of patient care, visit Vapotherm.com. For questions or collaboration inquiries, interested parties are encouraged to contact [email protected].

About Vapotherm



Based in Exeter, NH, Vapotherm is committed to advancing respiratory care through innovation and clinical excellence. The company is dedicated to equipping healthcare providers with advanced solutions like high-velocity therapy, empowering them to achieve superior patient outcomes while improving care experiences and optimizing overall costs of care.

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Atwood, Charles MD; Sethi, Jigme MD; Bergeski, Amy MHA, RRT-NPS; Dungan, George C. II MPhil (Med); Volakis, Leonithas I. MS, PhD; Whittle, Jessica S. MD, PhD. Effect of Single-Prong Cannula Design With High Velocity Therapy Comparable Efficacy at Lower Gas Flow Rates. Critical Care Explorations 7(2)p e1209, February 2025. | DOI 10.1097/CCE.0000000000001209.

Topics Health)

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