Digital Auscultation Device "Nexstetho" Demonstrates Clinical Utility for Respiratory Monitoring in Dental Anesthesia
- 峯 啓真
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Research Findings from Niigata University Department of Dental Anesthesiology Published in International Journal
The clinical utility of our digital auscultation device "Nexstetho (SDNX-01G)" for respiratory monitoring during intravenous sedation in dental treatment has been documented in a research paper by Dr. Naotaka Kishimoto and colleagues from the Department of Dental Anesthesiology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University. The study was published in the international academic journal Journal of Dental Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (June 2025 issue).
Background and Significance
Respiratory depression caused by medications used in intravenous sedation for dental treatment (benzodiazepines and propofol) represents a significant clinical challenge. Traditional visual monitoring of chest and abdominal movements for respiratory assessment has proven unreliable. In contrast, the adoption of expensive medical devices such as capnography and acoustic monitoring systems poses economic barriers for many dental clinics.
Innovative Monitoring System Using Nexstetho
This research developed a respiratory monitoring system utilizing the affordably-priced Nexstetho (approximately 380 USD as of February 2025) with the following distinctive features:
System Characteristics
Wireless Functionality: Bluetooth connectivity with headphones enables continuous respiratory sound monitoring even when the anesthesiologist is positioned away from the patient
Lightweight & Compact: Weighing approximately 60g, minimizing patient discomfort
Excellent Versatility: Compatible with pediatric stethoscope chest pieces, accommodating patients of all ages from adults to children
Open-Ear Design: Allows simultaneous patient respiratory monitoring and communication among treatment team members
Clinical Validation The Department of Dental Anesthesiology at Niigata University successfully implemented this system in five patients undergoing dental treatment under intravenous sedation, confirming reliable functionality without complications. The chest piece was positioned on the patient's neck (between the sternocleidomastoid muscle and thyroid cartilage), enabling clear auscultation of respiratory sounds.
Contributions to Dental and Anesthesia Fields
Significance for Dental Practice
Enables high-quality respiratory monitoring at a price point accessible to dental clinics
Wireless system addresses constraints specific to dental treatment (surgical field access, extended treatment duration)
Enhances the safety of intravenous sedation, expanding treatment options for patients with dental anxiety
Value for Anesthesia Practice
Cost-effective alternative to expensive conventional monitoring equipment
Contributes to early detection of respiratory depression and complication prevention through continuous monitoring
Improves workflow for the entire treatment team while enhancing patient safety
Future Perspectives
Dr. Kishimoto commented: "This respiratory monitoring system using Nexstetho can be introduced at low cost while enabling continuous respiratory monitoring, and is expected to help prevent various complications associated with respiratory depression."
These research findings are anticipated to significantly contribute to improved patient safety in dental and anesthesia fields and facilitate safer implementation of sedation techniques in a broader range of healthcare facilities.
Publication Details
Title: "Respiratory Monitoring during intravenous sedation using a digital auscultation device"
Authors: Naotaka Kishimoto, Toru Yamamoto, Rina Sakagami, Kenji Seo
Journal: Journal of Dental Anesthesia and Pain Medicine
Volume/Issue: Vol.25, No.3, pp.215-217 (June 2025)
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