SCTIMST ties up with Wipro 3D to make automated ventilators

Bengaluru: Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, an institute of National Importance of the Department of Science and Technology, has joined hands with Wipro 3D to build a prototype of an emergency ventilator system.

The ventilator system is going to be based on an artificial manual breathing unit (AMBU), developed by the institute.

AMBU bag or a bag-valve-mask is a hand-held device used to provide positive pressure ventilation to a patient who is either not breathing or who is breathing inadequately. However, the use of a regular AMBU needs a bystander for its operations who is highly susceptible and non-advisable to be in close contact with the COVID-19 patient. The institute’s automated AMBU ventilator with inputs from clinical faculty will assist the breathing of the critical patients who have no access to ICU ventilators.

The ventilators can help meet urgent demand arising out of the Covid 19 virus related crisis.

The tie-up with an industry player involves further joint improvement and development, clinical trials, and production.

“The technology was developed in a week. Millions of people worldwide are affected by COVID-19, and the numbers are increasing at a very fast pace. In this alarming situation, a handy artificial manual breathing unit (AMBU) will be very helpful. SCTIMST has a long tradition of developing and commercializing need-based medical devices,” Asha Kishore, Director, SCTIMST, was quoted saying in a press release.

She said Wipro 3D responded to the expression of interest and the institute held an elaborate discussion with technical teams and assessed the prototype. “We intend to quickly move into clinical trials and manufacturing through Wipro3D Bangalore.”