Ultra-low Profile Wireless Flow Sensors for Hemodynamic Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring hemodynamic alterations in the vascular system, particularly in cerebral aneurysms and ischemic vascular diseases, are invasive, costly, and lack continuous, non-invasive monitoring capabilities, leading to high recurrence rates and increased risk of complications.
Innovation Solution
A wireless, ultra-low profile, highly stretchable microflow sensor system integrated with a flow diverter device, utilizing a thin film nitinol framework and capacitive sensing technology, allows for continuous monitoring of blood flow velocity and intra-aneurysmal hemodynamic changes, enabling real-time data transfer through a flexible antenna.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard monitoring methods (catheter-based angiograms, Doppler measurements) are used, then hemodynamic data can be obtained, but the procedures are invasive, costly, and require repeated hospital visits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the flow sensor, wireless transmitter, and power source into a single integrated implantable device that is deployed within the vascular system. This merging eliminates the need for external monitoring equipment and repeated invasive procedures, allowing continuous reliable monitoring while greatly improving patient convenience
Solution Approach 2:
The implantable sensor system performs self-monitoring and self-reporting of hemodynamic data. The device autonomously measures flow velocity, processes the data, and wirelessly transmits it to external receivers, eliminating the need for repeated hospital visits and manual measurement procedures
2Reliability
If flow diverter devices are used to treat aneurysms, then blood flow into the aneurysm is reduced, but there is no way to monitor treatment efficacy and aneurysm healing progress without repeated invasive imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the implantable flow sensor continuously measures blood flow velocity and transmits this data wirelessly to external systems. This provides real-time feedback on treatment efficacy, allowing clinicians to monitor aneurysm healing progress and adjust treatment protocols based on actual hemodynamic changes rather than relying on periodic invasive imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless transmission system acts as an intermediary between the implantable sensor and external monitoring systems. It enables continuous data transfer without requiring physical connection or invasive procedures, thereby preserving the therapeutic effect of the flow diverter while providing continuous monitoring capability
3Measurement precision
If invasive catheter-based monitoring is performed repeatedly, then hemodynamic data can be obtained, but the risk of complications and recurrence increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a preliminary action by implanting the flow sensor during the initial treatment procedure. This allows continuous monitoring to begin immediately without requiring repeated invasive catheter insertions, thereby maintaining measurement precision while eliminating the cumulative risk of complications from repeated procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical invasive catheter-based measurement system with an implantable electronic sensor that uses electromagnetic fields for wireless data transmission. This substitution maintains accurate flow measurement capability while eliminating the physical trauma and infection risk associated with repeated catheter insertions
4Ease of operation
If endovascular coiling is used to treat aneurysms, then the procedure is less invasive than clipping, but recanalization occurs in up to 26.8% of cases due to persistent blood flow
Solution Approach 1:
The implantable flow sensor provides continuous feedback on blood flow velocity within the aneurysm sac, allowing clinicians to determine when flow has reduced to levels sufficient for endothelialization. This objective monitoring criterion helps ensure complete occlusion and prevents premature discontinuation of therapy, thereby improving cure rates while maintaining the minimally invasive nature of endovascular coiling
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides non-invasive, long-term monitoring of blood flow, reducing the risk of aneurysm recurrence and complications by quantitatively measuring flow velocity and treatment efficacy, thus enhancing patient safety and reducing follow-up imaging needs.
Implementation Method 1
microflow capacitive sensor component
Implementation Method 2
dielectric elastomer layer
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to endovascular medical implant devices, systems and methods that including a sensing device and a flow diverter device, which are effective to monitor intra-/post-operative hemodynamic properties in the location of a cerebral aneurysm and, hemodynamic alterations following placement of the system for treating ischemic diseases in carotid, coronary and peripheral arteries. The sensing device includes wireless, non-thrombogenic, highly stretchable, ultra-low profile flow sensors.