Kandu Health consolidates its operations with neurotechnology firm Neurolutions from BCI sector.
In a groundbreaking development, the IpsiHand Upper Extremity Rehabilitation System, created by Neurolutions Inc., is set to transform the lives of stroke survivors[1][2]. This innovative brain-computer interface (BCI) device, licensed from Washington University in St. Louis, enables stroke patients to regain motor control of their hand and arm.
The IpsiHand system, consisting of a headset, a tablet computer, and a device worn over the hand and wrist, works by detecting brain signals and translating them into hand movements[1]. The active mental control promotes recovery of motor function in patients who have chronic difficulties moving their upper extremity after a stroke[1].
The IpsiHand has recently received FDA market authorization, making it the first FDA-approved BCI for rehabilitation purposes[1]. This milestone signifies the transition of BCI from experimental technology to a clinically available therapeutic device[1]. Moreover, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has created a procedure code and made a benefit category determination for IpsiHand in 2024, enabling health insurance reimbursement for its use in clinical and home settings[1].
The device is designed for use either at home or in clinical environments, focusing on improving functional capabilities critical for daily living activities, such as feeding, grasping objects, and other purposeful hand and arm movements[1]. The IpsiHand specifically targets stroke survivors who have plateaued in spontaneous recovery (usually after six months), offering a novel rehabilitative option when traditional therapies have limited effect[1].
Post-authorization, the IpsiHand has garnered significant recognition, including being named a product of the year by California Life Sciences, highlighting its impact and innovation in the stroke recovery space[2]. The continued developments in BCI technology and growing patent landscape reflect a robust interest and investment in such neurotechnology, with IpsiHand at the forefront as a clinically validated and reimbursed device[3].
The merger between Kandu Health and Neurolutions continues the integration of IpsiHand into Kandu Health's stroke support services[4]. The combined company, operating as Kandu, will support patients from the immediate post-acute phase through chronic rehabilitation and recovery[4]. Kandu aims to lower the percentage of stroke survivors rating their quality of life as "poor or worse than death" one year after a stroke, which currently stands at 28% according to Kandu[5].
The $30 million investment from Ally Bridge Group and Amed Ventures will fund Kandu's commercial strategy, enabling the company to make IpsiHand available to eligible patients[6]. This investment will support Kandu's efforts to make IpsiHand a mainstay in stroke rehabilitation, improving outcomes for patients after hospital discharge[7].
In conclusion, the IpsiHand system represents a significant advancement in translating BCI technology into practical, widely accessible medical devices that assist patients in regaining motor function post-stroke through brain-controlled robotic assistance[1][2]. With FDA authorization, CMS reimbursement, and commercial availability, the IpsiHand is poised to revolutionize stroke rehabilitation.
References: [1] Neurolutions. (2022). IpsiHand: Brain-Computer Interface for Stroke Rehabilitation. Retrieved from https://neurolutionsinc.com/ipsihand/ [2] California Life Sciences. (2023). Product of the Year: IpsiHand. Retrieved from https://californialifesciences.org/product-of-the-year-ipsihand/ [3] Neurotechnology News. (2023). BCI Patent Landscape: A Growing Interest in Neurotechnology. Retrieved from https://neurotechnologynews.com/bci-patent-landscape-a-growing-interest-in-neurotechnology/ [4] Kandu Health. (2023). Kandu and Neurolutions Merge to Create Leading Stroke Support Services Provider. Retrieved from https://kanduhealth.com/press-releases/kandu-and-neurolutions-merge-to-create-leading-stroke-support-services-provider/ [5] Kandu. (2022). Kandu Health Launches to Improve Stroke Recovery Outcomes. Retrieved from https://kanduhealth.com/press-releases/kandu-health-launches-to-improve-stroke-recovery-outcomes/ [6] Business Wire. (2023). Kandu Health Announces $30 Million Investment to Fund Commercial Strategy. Retrieved from https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230307005373/en/Kandu-Health-Announces-30-Million-Investment-to-Fund-Commercial-Strategy [7] Neurolutions. (2021). FDA Grants De Novo Authorization for IpsiHand. Retrieved from https://neurolutionsinc.com/fda-grants-de-novo-authorization-for-ipsihand/
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