Acumen IQ sensor for predicting hypotension risk

The technology described in this briefing is Acumen IQ sensor with Acumen hypotension prediction index (HPI) software. It uses a machine-learning algorithm to predict the risk of a hypotensive event and provides information to help identify the cause.

The innovative aspects are that the technology is claimed to predict hypotension up to 15 minutes before an event.

The intended place in therapy would be to predict the chance of a hypotensive event happening during surgical and non-surgical cases in which an arterial line for blood pressure monitoring is recommended.

The main points from the evidence summarised in this briefing are from 6 studies (including 3 randomised controlled trials) of 878 adults in intensive care or needing high-risk surgery. They show that Acumen IQ with Acumen HPI software is effective in predicting hypotensive events.

Key uncertainties around the evidence or technology are that there is limited evidence for people in intensive care and limited evidence on patient outcomes.

The cost of Acumen IQ sensor is £400 per unit (excluding VAT) and the HemoSphere monitor costs £27,470 (excluding VAT). There is currently no evidence to suggest that this technology is cost saving.