EyeControl improves clinical outcomes, prevents cognitive decline, and enhances the patient and family experience. “We are honored to be able to support every patient – but especially our soldiers.”
What it’s about
EyeControl, an innovative Israeli company, has developed a groundbreaking medical device that allows ICU patients, including those on ventilators, to communicate through eye gestures and a bone conduction headset. This device is making significant strides in improving clinical outcomes, preventing cognitive decline, and enriching the experiences of patients and their families.
Why it matters
The development of EyeControl represents a significant advancement in medical technology, particularly for ICU patients and soldiers who have sustained severe injuries. It not only facilitates better communication and monitoring of sedation levels but also showcases Israel’s commitment to leveraging technological innovation for humanitarian and health-enhancing purposes.
ICU nurse at Assuta Ashdod and a patient use EyeControl
Reut Yirmi-Fish, an ICU nurse at Assuta Ashdod, demonstrates the use of EyeControl with a patient. (Credit: Benny Levin)
The story
Combat soldier Yoav Tzivoni, seriously wounded in Gaza and hospitalized for six months in the ICU of Samson Assuta Ashdod University Hospital, surprised medical staff by requesting his favorite heavy metal music after awakening. This revelatory moment underscored the transformative power of EyeControl, which tapped into Yoav’s consciousness and helped bridge the communication gap.
Yoav’s incident is part of a broader positive trend, with EyeControl often being used in critical medical settings to improve patients’ responses and experiences. Soldiers like Tzivoni, who experienced extensive rehabilitation, benefit immensely from the device, allowing them to maintain a connection with the outside world and, importantly, their favorite memories and sensations.
Addressing critical care challenges
Dr. Ami Mayo, director of critical care at Assuta Ashdod, praises the effectiveness of EyeControl, noting its potential to alleviate sedation-related complications such as delirium and PTSD. The device plays comforting sounds, including family messages and favorite music, aiding clinicians in monitoring and adjusting sedation levels more accurately.
The application of EyeControl extends beyond the boundaries of Israel and is part of several international clinical trials, aiming to prove its efficacy in reducing ICU delirium at prominent medical centers like Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Johns Hopkins University.
A proud contribution to healthcare and honoring soldiers
EyeControl’s origin, rooted in aiding ALS patients, has expanded its scope to offer profound impacts across various medical scenarios, significantly benefitting soldiers and their families. Co-founder Or Reitzin emphasizes the honor and responsibility of supporting both civilian patients and Israeli soldiers through such innovative technology.
Recognizing the story behind the technology
Ms. Finkelstein, EyeControl’s product specialist, recounts deeply personal stories of soldiers and their families who find comfort and connection through EyeControl, underscoring humanity’s core in medical innovation. The endeavor has not only delivered promised patient outcomes but has also provided emotional solace to countless families during challenging times.
Looking ahead, the support from high-profile investors suggests a significant global expansion of this uniquely valuable medical solution curated through Israeli ingenuity and the dedication to supporting soldiers and civilian patients alike.
Conclusion
EyeControl is set to light the path for future technologies in critical care, bridging the gap between patients and their loved ones and redefining patient care in ICUs. In the words of Reitzin: “We are honored to support every patient – but especially our soldiers.”
This story was first published on jpost.com.