Lungpacer Medical is a medical technology company developing neurostimulation therapies for critically ill patients, with a focus on restoring diaphragm function and helping patients transition off mechanical ventilation. Its AeroPace system provides temporary transvenous diaphragm neurostimulation and received U.S. Premarket Approval in 2024.
Avery Biomedical Devices, IncFounded by Roger Avery in the late 1960s, Avery Biomedical Devices makes implanted diaphragm pacemaker systems that stimulate the phrenic nerves to support breathing. The company’s predecessor introduced the first commercially distributed diaphragm pacemaker in 1971, and Avery has since manufactured more than 10,000 neurostimulators implanted in over 50 countries. Renamed in 2005, the Long Island manufacturer’s Spirit system has full FDA approval for adult and pediatric use and is produced under an ISO 13485 quality system.COMMACK, NY
Respair, IncBorn from University of Pittsburgh clinical research, Pittsburgh-based Respair develops airway devices for ventilated patients, beginning with RelianceET, a breathing tube designed to replace the conventional inflatable cuff with soft baffles that seal the airway without added pressure. Founded by physicians Carl Snyderman and Garrett Coyan, the company brings surgeons, engineers, and entrepreneurs together to address ventilator-associated complications. Respair completed hundreds of benchtop tests and received a Phase I SBIR award from the NIH while advancing the device toward regulatory submission.PITTSBURGH, PA
Advanced Respiratory Technologies, Inc. (ART)Founded in 2015 by extracorporeal life-support experts, Pittsburgh-based Advanced Respiratory Technologies is developing artificial lungs and a wearable Pulmonary Assist System for long-term respiratory support. Its battery-powered, 3.2-kilogram system is designed to give people with chronic lung disease greater mobility and a path home from intensive care, while also supporting military transport. ART has produced a third-generation prototype and has received more than $22 million in grant funding during its development.339113PITTSBURGH, PA
Synapse Biomedical IncFounded in 2002, Oberlin-based Synapse Biomedical develops and manufactures neurostimulation medical devices that help patients breathe and recover movement. Its FDA-approved NeuRx Diaphragm Pacing System supports diaphragm conditioning for people with spinal cord injuries and ALS, while the company’s TransAeris system is designed to address ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction. Synapse says its NeuRx products are manufactured in Ohio at an ISO 13485-certified facility and have been used to treat more than 2,000 patients.OBERLIN, OH