Smart One for measuring lung function

The technology described in this briefing is Smart One. It is a portable spirometer used for measuring lung function.

The innovative aspects are that the device transmits measurements wirelessly to a smartphone (or tablet). This records results in a diary app which can be shared electronically with a healthcare professional.

The intended place in therapy would be as a self‑monitoring device for use at home in addition to usual care. It is for people who would benefit from home assessment of lung function, such as those with asthma, cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

No published evidence was found on Smart One. Three studies (n=496 people in total) involved similar devices from the same manufacturer, Spirotel and Spirobank, which use the same turbine as Smart One. The studies showed good reproducibility between Spirotel and a pneumotachograph and laboratory spirometer, and that Spirobank had comparable precision to other office portable spirometers.

Key uncertainties around the technology are that there is no published evidence on its safety or effectiveness. The frequency of recommended use does not match guideline recommendations for spirometry, and using Smart One would not avoid the need for annual testing by a healthcare professional. More frequent spirometer measurements can worsen lung function for some conditions such as cystic fibrosis.

The cost of Smart One is £99.95 per unit (exclusive of VAT). The resource impact overall compared with standard care (spirometry) cannot be evaluated because of the lack of evidence.