Dr. Nir Hoftman, an Anesthesiologist and Health Science Clinical Professor in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine has worked with colleagues to design and develop a personal protective equipment (PPE) barrier device to protect health care workers from patients infected with contagious respiratory pathogens.
The Vaccushield aka SLACC (Suction-Assisted Local Aerosol Containment Chamber) acts as a physical barrier between the patients and the environment, creating a microenvironment to contain respiratory droplets and aerosols from the patient. The device contains negative pressure ports to connect a pre-existing smoke evacuation system to decrease aerosolization of droplets. The device is designed to be elastic and adjustable for both the patient and the healthcare worker to promote comfort while protecting individuals with highest risk of exposure to contagious respiratory pathogens.
Link to Faculty website: https://www.uclahealth.org/nir-hoftman
Link to Relevant Publications: https://ucla.technologypublisher.com/techcase/20-0349