Novel Wearable Device for Non-Invasive Management of Positional Sleep Apnea: A Proof-of-Concept

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a serious health condition characterized by repetitive airway collapses during sleep, which can lead to cardiovascular and metabolic complications if untreated. Positional OSA (POSA), a subtype triggered by specific sleeping positions, presents additional therapeutic challenges. This paper introduces a novel wearable device designed to treat POSA non-invasively. The system employs a microcontroller, inertial sensors, and a quiet piezoelectric pump to dynamically adjust a pillow based on the user’s position. When the patient lies supine, the pillow inflates to encourage a lateral position, reducing nocturnal respiratory events. Experimental tests demonstrate the system’s low latency and minimal noise levels, making it a comfortable alternative to conventional OSA treatment, but also aiming to become the first-line treatment for POSA. The proposed device offers an effective, portable, and adaptable solution for patients seeking non-intrusive treatment options for sleep apnea. Future developments include integrating remote monitoring capabilities to enhance usability and clinical effectiveness.