HEALTH INNOVATION AND THE ENTREPRENEUR

THE CHALLENGE

Arrinex, a start-up based in the Bay Area, created a unique solution for allergic rhinitis: minimally invasive cryotherapy that directly inhibits the neural pathway triggering the allergic response. The science was sound, but a key challenge was developing an entirely novel device for a novel procedure that was without precedent. Future Medical Systems rapidly refined the initial surgical handset interaction design and met with future users to understand their processes and needs.

FMS held device feedback and co-design sessions with clinicians, even turning a conference room into a makeshift ENT clinic. Using modelling clay, wire and wooden dowels, clinicians were able to practice manipulating the device, prototyping new handset forms and physical interfaces in real-time. One outcome of this was to 

re-architect the handset, ultimately creating an intuitive interface between the probe tip and the user’s hand.We further worked hand-in-hand with the device engineering team, prioritizing and addressing critical user needs throughout the intervention process, including developing training support materials.

Following excellent clinical results and FDA 510(k) clearance, Arrinex was purchased by Stryker in 2019, representing a positive outcome for the team.