Arokiaraj U, Senior Nursing Officer in the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS) at AIIMS-Raipur, has developed a novel respiratory device aimed at minimizing the spread of airborne infections during common medical procedures. The Indian Patent Office in New Delhi has granted a utility patent for this innovation.
HOAC Combo: A Closed-System Solution
Named the Highly Oxygenated Aerosol Controlled (HOAC) Combo, the device is a closed-system respiratory support unit. It significantly reduces the risk of infection during nebulization, sputum sampling, incentive spirometry, and low-flow oxygen therapy. Designed with safety in mind, it offers vital protection to both patients and healthcare workers.
Prototype Development and Future Plans
Currently, the HOAC Combo is in the functional prototype development stage. Arokiaraj and his team are actively seeking funding to move the project forward. The next steps include pilot studies and clinical validation, which will pave the way for large-scale adoption across India and internationally.
Recognition at India Innovation Summit 2025
Arokiaraj showcased the HOAC Combo at the India Innovation Summit 2025, held on March 18–19 at Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre, New Delhi. The Department of Health Research (DHR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) organized the event. It aimed to highlight pioneering healthcare solutions.
Support from National Platforms and AIIMS-Raipur
As reported by TOI, the device has also been featured on the ATLAS of Innovation platform—a research initiative that supports the development of technologies aimed at eliminating tuberculosis.
Lt. Gen. Ashok Jindal (Retd), Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS-Raipur, congratulated Arokiaraj on this remarkable achievement, calling it a significant milestone for the institution. In recognition of his contribution, AIIMS-Raipur has nominated Arokiaraj for both the National Florence Nightingale Award and the National Science Award 2025.
Gratitude and Acknowledgements
Arokiaraj expressed heartfelt gratitude to the medical superintendent, his colleagues in the CTVS department, and the AIIMS-Raipur administration. He acknowledged their unwavering support and guidance throughout the development process.