AerWave announced today that it completed the first-in-human feasibility study of its disease-modifying ultrasound lung denervation therapy.
New York-based AerWave also raised $12 million to further advance its therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
The ultrasound platform aims to simplify and enhance lung denervation, according to a news release. It eliminates the need for fluoroscopic guidance, esophageal marker balloons and multiple catheter exchanges. By delivering precise circumferential ablation in a single energy application, the approach seeks to reduce airway smooth muscle constriction. This addresses the underlying drivers of disease rather than merely managing symptoms.
AerWave says its platform delivers precise treatment in one simple, targeted ablation procedure. It also avoids sensitive areas like peri esophageal nerves. The shorter procedure also has a single-shot, circumferential approach. This eliminates fluoroscopy and ancillary devices with a universal catheter design for diverse airway anatomies.
The AerWave platform extends beyond lung denervation to include conformal lung tumor ablation and lung volume reduction. With ultrasound’s ability to apply energy precisely and avoid applications, the company believes it opens up additional indications.
“The successful completion of our FIH trial and the accompanying funding are significant milestones for our team,” said Patrick Gallagher, CEO, Aerwave Medical. “Our technology addresses some of the most pressing challenges in respiratory care, and offers a scalable, disease-modifying solution with the potential to improve patient outcomes.”
