B1 Medical Limited (“B1”) is pleased to announce that it has signed an agreement with IPSO Ventures plc (“IPSO”) the creator of commercial value from technology, to collaborate on the development of a device for diagnosing Acute Compartment Syndrome (“ACS”).
B1 has developed a monitor (“the B1 Monitor”), based on the measurement of tissue pH, to provide an early indication of the likely onset of ACS. This is a condition which occurs mainly in trauma/crush victims and patients who have undergone surgery. ACS is caused when swelling occurs within a closed compartment (e.g. in the arm or leg) and as swelling continues nerves and arteries can be crushed and muscle can die. Early diagnosis of ACS is paramount, as without treatment it can lead to paralysis, loss of a limb or even death. There are currently no robust diagnostic tests for acute intramuscular ischaemic vascular conditions.
The novel B1 technology allows early diagnosis of ACS and initial clinical studies indicate that it has better diagnostic capability than the current gold standard, which uses pressure measurement.
IPSO has developed novel micro-electrodes for the accurate measurement of pH in extremely small volumes of liquid. One embodiment being developed is a micro-electrode for insertion into tissue for the continuous measurement of pH. This will form the basis of a disposable micro-probe, for use in conjunction with the B1 Monitor, for monitoring likely onset of ACS in trauma patients.
Mark Wickham, CEO of B1, said: “I am very pleased that our two companies have come together to develop a product for which there is a real clinical need. The Monitor will aid the early diagnosis and treatment of ACS and the market potential for a product that accurately diagnoses this serious condition is significant.”
Nick Rodgers, CEO of IPSO, added: “We are very excited to work with B1 on the development of such a novel product. This is yet another example of how we develop technologies which are commercially relevant. By bringing together know-how and IP from various sources, we are able to address serious commercial needs and add significant value for shareholders.”