Soft Robotic Total Larynx Replacement. (360G-Wellcome-106574_Z_14_Z)

Laryngeal speech, breathing, swallowing are fundamental human functions. Our vision is to transform the lives of those losing laryngeal function (laryngectomees and others) by combining cutting-edge bioengineering and soft robotics into a total laryngeal replacement (TLR) device. Our team partners leading surgeons, engineers and scientists with patients and business experts. Validation work already completed includes: i) biomaterials testing in vitro and in vivo; ii) creation of a valve which re sonates at human speech frequencies; iii) actuation control of speech, swallowing and breathing functions, whilst maintaining airway protection. Here, we integrate our components in a physiological-scale, soft robotics based, device. We will (a) perform further neurophysiology in patients undergoing laryngeal surgery; (b) develop an optimised prototype; (c) perform GLP sheep studies to confirm safety, biocompatibility and potential efficacy; (d) engage with end-users and stakeholders; (e) devel op pathways to commercialisation, including outlines for clinical trials and regulatory work. If successful, this project will offer proof-of-concept for novel solutions to other, diverse unmet clinical needs, for example facial paralysis and incontinence.