K. Rodriguez
Vitara Biomedical,
United States
Keywords: neonatal care, premature, infants, womb, medical technology, medical device, vitara
Summary:
Each year, approximately 15 million babies are born preterm worldwide, and 1 million of them die due to complications related to premature birth, making it the leading cause of death among children under the age of five. In the United States alone, this results in an estimated $26 billion economic burden. Extreme prematurity continues to be a major contributor to neonatal long-term health issues. Vitara Biomedical aims to give preterm newborns and their families a brighter future. The company is developing a pumpless pod system intended to enhance outcomes for premature infants. The Vitara System creates a fluid environment that simulates the conditions of the womb, supporting the healthy growth and development of vital organs. Preclinical studies in fetal lambs have shown that the system can safely support both mid- and late-term gestation for up to 28 days, with ongoing development of organ systems. Vitara Biomedical is pursuing a first-in-human clinical trial of the Vitara System.