Resmed has introduced a noninvasive sleep apnea test system that can be used in patients’ homes.
The NightOwl, applied to a patient’s fingertip, has been cleared by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and is now available throughout the United States, the San Diego, California-based manufacturer (NYSE: RMD) said in an April 3 news announcement.
The disposable obstructive sleep apnea testing device, worn on the patient’s index finger, can collect up to 10 nights’ worth of sleep data, “capturing night-to-night variability and providing clinicians with a comprehensive view of an individual’s sleep patterns,” the announcement said. “Sleep data is sent remotely to a cloud-based diagnostic platform for physician analysis and review, enabling quick interpretation, streamlining diagnostic workflows, and helping individuals receive more timely diagnoses, if applicable.”
NightOwl pairs with Resmed’s myAir app, which walks patients through the setup and testing process. The device measures peripheral arterial tone, actigraphy (movement during sleep), pulse rate, and oximetry. The patient’s data is then autoscored “with an algorithm that is clinically validated against polysomnography,” Resmed said. Data is transmitted to the provider’s portal via Wi-Fi or a cellular connection, “enabling fully remote and secure access to sleep studies.”
The NightOwl is disposable and can be discarded by the patient after testing is complete, thus eliminating the need for providers to arrange for return shipping or cleaning of the device.
“Now more than ever, people want health-care experiences that are easy, convenient, and accessible,” said Carlos M. Nunez, M.D., chief medical officer at Resmed. “However, navigating sleep apnea testing can be complex. With NightOwl, people can easily complete a sleep apnea test from the comfort of home using just a fingertip sensor and a smartphone. It also simplifies the process for providers. This is a meaningful step forward in Resmed’s mission to deliver life-changing health technology that people love.”
