What it does
The CerviCollar is a medical device that eliminates jugular vein compression by avoiding direct contact with the sides of the neck. To retain its main function of stabilization, the collar utilizes innovative contact points on the jaw, head, and shoulders.
Your inspiration
A leading study has identified a major flaw in current cervical collars: they compress the jugular veins by applying pressure to the sides of the neck, where these veins run. This impedes blood flow, increases intracranial pressure (ICP), and can cause complications ranging from discomfort and headaches to brain ischemia, herniation, and even death. With nearly 20 years of experience, PI Akbari, alongside Co-PI King and UCI biomedical engineers, developed the CerviCollar—a novel device that stabilizes the spine but avoids contact with the sides of the neck by using only bony contact points on the jaw, head, and shoulders.
How it works
This novel design strategically avoids any contact with the sides of the neck, instead utilizing key contact points on the jaw, back of the head, and shoulders to provide neck stabilization. By analyzing how competitor collars distribute forces, we realized that they rely on the sides of the neck for immobilization. We then identified a critical need to redirect these forces to prevent jugular vein compression. Our design achieves this by concentrating forces on the bony structure of the body such as the jaw, particularly for controlling rotational movements and thereby more efficiently preventing movement of the upper cervical vertebrae. The back of the head and chin prevented flexion and extension movement, controlled by the lower cervical vertebrae. Finally, the shoulders applied pressure to prevent lateral flexion, controlled by the highest cervical vertebrae.
Design process
We began our design process by analyzing conventional cervical collars and identifying a major flaw: they apply significant lateral pressure on the sides of the neck, potentially compressing the jugular veins. To address this, we proposed a novel concept—removing side pressure while preserving cervical immobilization. We performed free body diagram analyses on an average-sized head to determine biomechanically optimal points for force application. We identified the mandible, upper chest, and occiput (back of the head) as stable bony landmarks for support. With these insights, we designed our initial prototype using SolidWorks to create a CAD model. This was followed by a physical prototype made from craft materials including cardboard, Velcro, and foam. This version underwent testing on users with various head and neck sizes. We used goniometric measurements to confirm restricted motion and ultrasound imaging to demonstrate no jugular vein compression. Based on positive results, we iterated the design and 3D printed the prototype using polylactic acid (PLA), resulting in a lightweight, functional collar that met both biomechanical and clinical goals.
How it is different
Unlike traditional cervical collars that wrap around the neck and risk compressing the jugular veins, our CerviCollar features patented side openings that eliminate lateral pressure, improving both comfort and safety. The design stabilizes the head using only the bony mandible, chest, and occiput, preserving full venous return. Instead of relying on circumferential pressure, it uses adjustable shoulder straps to distribute stabilizing forces between the front and back panels. A secure head strap adds further immobilization. These features are novel and unclaimed in the USPTO database, as confirmed by a patent search conducted through UCI Beall Applied Innovation. No current devices combine vascular-sparing design with biomechanically optimized stabilization. Our provisional patent has been filed, and angel investors familiar with Beall Innovation have expressed strong interest pending further clinical validation.
Future plans
1. Manufacture 25 CerviCollars via FDA-approved partners (e.g., ProtoLabs) within 12 weeks post-funding. 2. Conduct IRB-approved testing on 17 patients to validate ICP safety and neck immobilization using ultrasound and goniometer testing. 3. Publish a paper on our findings to support the need for our cervical collar in the ICU 4. File a non-provisional patent to protect the device's novel structure. 5. Begin FDA pathway (Week 25), ensuring compliance with ISO/ASTM standards and QMS for global sales. 6. Launch a C-Corp and four business teams to develop KOL networks, marketing, distribution, and sales strategies for commercialization.
Awards
Our invention was honored as a Nominee for the Dean's Choice Award, recognizing its innovation and impact. Additionally, it won 2nd place in Beall’s Applied Innovation competition, highlighting its potential and excellence among emerging technologies. These accolades affirm the value and promise of our design.
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