SaiOx Inc

SaiOx has developed a respiratory assist device that utilizes the benefits of heliox in a novel way. This device provides O2 and HeO2 at a low-flow and low-pressure, increasing comfort and adherence.

Currently, SaiOx is finalizing the device design and obtaining regulatory approval from the FDA. The team has engaged with multiple advisors, key opinion leaders, and potential customers, including receiving an LOI from a local Arizona tribal healthcare group. The company is seeking a second round of funding to complete the regulatory milestones and begin sales. The group is also awaiting the decision for an NIH grant that would support development of a home version of the device.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the 4th leading cause of death in the United States, killing more than 3 million people every year. Additionally, the rates of COPD are rapidly growing creating a $3 billion US market opportunity. Current treatments are uncomfortable, leading to low patient treatment adherence and increased hospitalizations.

Low density heliox carries oxygen more easily and deeper into the lungs, decreasing the work of breathing and increasing patient blood oxygen levels. Additionally, the low pressure of the system decreases patient breathing discomfort, therefore increasing treatment adherence because patients are more comfortable. Lastly, the closed system allows for decreased exposure to patient infections and less waste of air supply through CO2 scrubbing.

SaiOx will earn money through device sales, reoccurring patient breathing kit sales, and a remote patient monitoring system for the home device. With these revenue sources, SaiOx will make money from both business and customer sales and will have reoccurring revenue from the disposable kits.

2021 Venture Madness Winner
2021 Arizona Innovation Challenge Awardee
2022 Flinn Foundation Bioscience Entrepreneurship Program Winner