0
0
Raipur, India – In a significant stride towards infection control in healthcare settings, Arokiaraj U, a Senior Nursing Officer from the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS) at AIIMS Raipur, has developed a novel respiratory device aimed at reducing the spread of airborne infections. The device, named the Highly Oxygenated Aerosol Controlled (HOAC) Combo, recently received a utility patent from the Indian Patent Office in New Delhi1.
The HOAC Combo is a closed-system respiratory support unit specifically designed to minimize the risk of airborne transmission during procedures such as nebulisation, sputum sampling, incentive spirometry, and low-flow oxygen therapy. By containing aerosols and droplets, the device offers enhanced protection for both patients and healthcare workers, addressing a critical need in hospitals and clinics1.
Currently, the HOAC Combo is in the functional prototype development phase. Efforts are underway to secure funding, after which the device will undergo pilot studies and clinical validation. These steps are essential before the device can be implemented on a larger scale in India and potentially worldwide1.
Arokiaraj U showcased the HOAC Combo at the India Innovation Summit 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre, New Delhi. The summit, organized by the Department of Health Research (DHR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), provided a platform for innovators to present solutions that address pressing public health challenges. The device has also been featured on the ATLAS of Innovation platform, which supports the development of new technologies for tuberculosis (TB) elimination1.
Lt. Gen. Ashok Jindal (Retd), Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Raipur, praised Arokiaraj’s achievement, describing the development as a milestone for the institution. In recognition of his contribution, AIIMS Raipur has nominated Arokiaraj for the National Florence Nightingale Award and the National Science Award 20251.
Expressing gratitude, Arokiaraj credited the support and guidance of the Medical Superintendent, the CTVS department, and the AIIMS administration for making this innovation possible1.
Disclaimer:
The HOAC Combo device is currently in the prototype development phase and has not yet completed clinical validation or received regulatory approval for widespread use. All information regarding its effectiveness and safety is based on initial reports and has not been independently verified. Readers should consult healthcare professionals before considering any new medical device or intervention1.
Citations:
