Summary

Advice

The technology described in this briefing is O2matic PRO 100. It is used to optimise oxygen treatment in respiratory conditions and for oxygen supplementation. It uses blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂) levels to automatically adjust the flow of oxygen delivered to a person, with the goal of achieving and maintaining target SpO₂.
The innovative aspects are that it offers automatic oxygen titration to the person to reach and maintain a target SpO₂. Other automated oxygen titration devices are available in the UK.
The intended place in therapy would be in a hospital setting as an alternative to fixed-dose oxygen which is manually adjusted based on pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas analysis in people with respiratory conditions and people admitted to hospital for supplemental oxygen.
The main points from the evidence summarised in this briefing are from 3 studies (1 randomised crossover trial, 1 observational study and 1 crossover trial) including a total of 69 adults (48 with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD] and 15 with COVID-19).
Key uncertainties are that the evidence base is limited to small studies showing the technology can be used in some settings for people with COPD and COVID‑19. None of the studies were done in the UK. More evidence is needed to understand its value in the NHS, particularly comparing its use in different groups.
Experts advised that the technology has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce hospital stays. The technology is not yet used in the NHS and further evidence with larger sample sizes is needed to demonstrate the benefits against standard care for specific patient groups in the NHS.
The cost of O2matic PRO 100 is £5,000 to £7,000 per unit (excluding VAT). The resource impact would be in addition to standard care. The expected lifespan of O2matic PRO 100 is 5 years. According to the company, no maintenance and calibration is needed.