AutoSyP: A Low-Cost, Low-Power Syringe Pump for Use in Low-Resource Settings

Abstract

This article describes the design and evaluation of AutoSyP, a low-cost, low-power syringe pump intended to deliver intravenous (IV) infusions in low-resource hospitals. A constant-force spring within the device provides mechanical energy to depress the syringe plunger. As a result, the device can run on rechargeable battery power for 66 hours, a critical feature for low-resource settings where the power grid may be unreliable. The device is designed to be used with 5- to 60-mL syringes and can deliver fluids at flow rates ranging from 3 to 60 mL/hour. The cost of goods to build one AutoSyP device is approximately $500. AutoSyP was tested in a laboratory setting and in a pilot clinical study. Laboratory accuracy was within 4% of the programmed flow rate. The device was used to deliver fluid to 10 healthy adult volunteers and 30 infants requiring IV fluid therapy at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre, Malawi. The device delivered fluid with an average mean flow rate error of −2.3% ± 1.9% for flow rates ranging from 3 to 60 mL/hour. AutoSyP has the potential to improve the accuracy and safety of IV fluid delivery in low-resource settings.

The Role of Affordable, Point-of-Care Technologies for Cancer Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Review and Commentary

“…While there are a range of types of chemotherapy treatments, intravenous chemotherapy can require the use of an infusion pump to carefully control dosage over time. Currently in development, a low-cost infusion pump called AutoSyP offers laboratory accuracy of fluid delivery within 4% of the programmed flow rate [114] . Battery-powered and operable for 66-hours per charge, AutoSyP offers consistent drug delivery in environments with less-reliable power sources.…”

“…Battery-powered and operable for 66-hours per charge, AutoSyP offers consistent drug delivery in environments with less-reliable power sources. The device can be assembled for approximately $500, which is a viable price point for hospitals in LMICs [114] .…”

“…Lastly, effective cancer treatment maintains the ability to preserve patient quality of life by controlling pain and physical symptoms during treatment, recovery, and at the end of life. One aspect of palliative care is pain control using low-cost, reliable drug delivery systems such as the aforementioned infusion pump [114] . Its ability to reliably function without consistent access to power while delivering accurate drug dosages makes it a promising option for cancer care units seeking cost-appropriate solutions for infusion of pain medication.…”

A Simple Approach for Controlling an Open-Source Syringe Pump

“…Flow rate characterization and accuracy were not discussed in this study. In a different work, Juarez et al presented a low-cost syringe pump targeted intravenous infusions in hospitals [11]. The working principle of this pump was based on the controlled-release of a loaded spring mechanism through a stepper motor which was driven by a microcontroller.…”

Part II: U.S.—Sub-Saharan Africa Educational Partnerships for Medical Device Design

“…International design teams have been responsible for several new health technologies, the most notable being the low-cost bubble continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for neonates, a low-cost syringe pump that uses mechanical energy to last between intermittent power outages, a diagnostic device for postpartum hemorrhage, a hand-powered centrifuge made of a salad spinner, an electronic medical records system, and an alternative consumable to test for anemia that costs less than 1¢. 4,5,18,19,25,29 The Rice BME faculty has also collaborated with the Malawi faculty to build the undergraduate BME program at the University of Malawi, which is a program in the Department of Engineering. 17,28 Kathleen Sienko, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and BME at the University of Michigan, is Director of the Global Health Design Initiative (GHDI) and Co-Director of the Center for Socially Engaged Design.…”