Nasal devices improve breathing

Medical technology company Rhinomed (ASX:RNO) has successfully trialled its nasal and respiratory technology, Turbine, in athletes.

The first cab off the BreathAssist technology platform, the Turbine device inserts into the nose and widens the nasal passages, increasing air flow through the nose by an average of 38%. A trial of the device in cyclists resulted in participants increasing their power output and travelling further when compared to not wearing the device.

“Sports people - who are very motivated - provided a good way of socialising the technology,” said Rhinomed CEO Michael Johnson. “We needed an early-adopter market, especially with a new form of technology, as it can be a strange concept putting something into your nose.”

Rhimoned plan to release the first of their sleep products targeting snoring and sleep quality later this year. This will be an over-the-counter nasal device that differs in design from the Turbine.

“The Turbine forces the nostrils open for short-term use,” explained Johnson. “The snoring device is a different design because it stays in the nose for eight hours or more. It is more comfortable and opens the nostrils in a slightly different way.”

A key IP approach with the nasal devices is the difference in nostril sizes.

“Many people have deviated septums which result in one nostril being smaller than the other,” said Johnson. “These devices push in and out and dilate to best fit each person’s needs.”

Sleep apnoea and drug delivery are two other areas the company is exploring with their BreathAssist technology platform. 

Rhinomed shares were trading 5% lower at $0.19 at around 1 pm on Friday.