New wearable could make sleep apnea diagnosis easier for kids

NCT ID NCT05052216

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 10 times

Summary

This study is testing a wearable sensor that measures oxygen levels in the brain and limbs of children with and without obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The sensor, called near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), is compared to standard sleep study techniques. Researchers hope it could lead to a simpler, point-of-care device for diagnosing and monitoring pediatric OSA. The study involves 120 children aged 3-12, with one overnight visit for healthy kids and two for those with OSA.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) wearable sensor
What this could lead to
If successful, this could lead to a simpler, more comfortable way to diagnose and monitor sleep apnea in children at home.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage study with only 120 participants, so the device may not prove accurate enough to replace standard sleep studies. It also requires overnight visits, which may not reflect real-world home use.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

    RECRUITING

    Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.