Newborns require frequent health monitoring, with electrolytes being a critical indicator. Currently, this involves multiple daily blood tests, which can be distressing and technically challenging due to their tiny veins. Hong Yeo, a professor at Georgia Tech, saw an opportunity to innovate when attending a pediatric technology conference. Inspired by the need for noninvasive monitoring, he envisioned using something babies already love—pacifiers.
The pacifier integrates a microfluidic channel that collects saliva from the baby’s mouth, guiding it to a sensor-equipped reservoir. These sensors continuously measure sodium and potassium levels, providing real-time data via Bluetooth to a physician’s smartphone or tablet. This technology enables constant health tracking, allowing early detection of complications.
To ensure comfort, the team designed an ultra-thin, flexible electronic circuit that seamlessly attaches to the pacifier. Led by researcher Hojoong Kim, the team optimized the device to function wirelessly, making it practical for hospital use.
Beyond NICU applications, the technology has the potential to expand into other areas of health monitoring using saliva biomarkers. the device is still in the development phase, and the researchers are actively seeking funding and commercialization partners to take the technology to the next level and implement it in hospitals.
Article written by Catherine Barzler
04/03/2025
Source:
Georgia Tech