Creating a device to predict breathing problems from opioids in children after surgery

Development and Commercialization of a pupillometer to predict postoperative opioid-induced respiratory depression in children

NIH-funded research Neuroptics, INC. · NIH-10878990

This study is testing a new device that measures how your child's pupils react to help doctors figure out which kids might be at risk for breathing problems after surgery, so they can take steps to keep them safe while using pain medicine.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNeuroptics, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-10878990 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a pupillometer, a device that measures pupil response, to predict the risk of respiratory depression in children following surgery. By identifying children at high risk for this serious complication, healthcare providers can take proactive measures to prevent adverse effects associated with opioid use. The study aims to improve patient safety and reduce healthcare costs by enabling timely interventions. The methodology involves testing the pupillometer's effectiveness in a clinical setting to ensure reliable predictions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are scheduled for surgeries that typically require opioid pain management.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or those who do not require opioids for pain management may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of respiratory depression in children after surgery, leading to safer postoperative care.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using a pupillometer for this specific purpose is novel, similar predictive monitoring techniques have shown promise in other areas of postoperative care.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.