Company

LifeCuff Technologies Inc. is developing LifeCuff, a second-generation device for automated delivery of a therapy called Remote Ischemic Conditioning, or RIC - a novel noninvasive therapy for treating a variety of ischemic and inflammatory conditions. This noninvasive treatment involves a series of four 5-min occlusions of an upper arm triggering an innate body response and release of a number of protective substances into the bloodstream.

 

The first commercial application for this device is for treating diabetic foot ulcers. The number of diabetics in the US approaches 40 million.  That number grows steadily driven by obesity, the aging population, and socioeconomic disparities, with higher diabetes rates among lower-income populations, where access to healthcare, nutritious food, and physical activity may be limited. Diabetic foot ulcer is a major complication of diabetes and can lead to limb amputations. As many as 85% of diabetes-related amputations are preceded by foot ulcers. Advanced treatments, such as skin grafts, are location-specific. They can cost as much as $10,000 per treatment and are only covered once a year by Medicaid.

 

Remote ischemic conditioning delivered by LifeCuff has the potential of a much-needed low-cost alternative to both provide more effective treatment as well as prevention of new foot ulcers. It is non-invasive, delivers a systemic benefit to all foot ulcers, and has no serious complications.

 

The benefits of automated delivery of RIC using LifeCuff to treat and prevent chronic wounds go beyond diabetes. Bed sores is an even larger clinical problem, especially among nursing home residents. Other future applications for this device include Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), stroke, heart failure, and other major ailments. The underlying technology may also be used in automated tourniquets used in civilian and military applications and for other purposes.