Creating a new way to diagnose upper airway obstruction using advanced imaging techniques.

Development of a Novel Diagnostic Modality for Upper Airway Obstruction via Integrating Dynamic Computed Tomography with Computational Fluid Dynamics

NIH-funded research Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo) · NIH-10887792

This study is working on a new way to better diagnose breathing problems caused by upper airway obstruction, especially for people with Robin Sequence, by using advanced imaging techniques to see how their airways change while they breathe.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo) NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10887792 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to improve the diagnosis of upper airway obstruction (UAO) by developing a novel diagnostic method that combines dynamic computed tomography with computational fluid dynamics. The approach focuses on creating patient-specific metrics that quantify the severity of UAO, particularly in patients with Robin Sequence, a condition that can lead to serious breathing difficulties. By capturing the dynamic changes in the upper airway during the respiratory cycle, this research seeks to provide more accurate and timely information for clinical decision-making. The goal is to enhance the understanding of airway dynamics and improve treatment strategies for affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include infants and children diagnosed with Robin Sequence or other conditions leading to upper airway obstruction.

Not a fit: Patients with upper airway obstruction not related to anatomical or dynamic issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better treatment options for patients with upper airway obstruction.

How similar studies have performed: While the integration of dynamic imaging and computational modeling is a novel approach, similar methodologies have shown promise in other areas of respiratory diagnostics.

Where this research is happening

Kansas City, 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.
Conditions Beckwith syndromeBeckwith-Wiedemann SyndromeBerry syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.