Monitoring blood pressure in newborns using a wearable device

Continuous Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Monitoring in Neonates using Wearable Wireless NIRS

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11036200

This study is testing a new, gentle device that can keep track of blood pressure in newborns without any needles or painful procedures, making it safer and easier for babies in hospitals.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11036200 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a non-invasive method to continuously monitor blood pressure in neonates using a wearable device called FlexNIRS. The device utilizes Near Infra-Red Spectroscopy (NIRS) technology to accurately measure blood flow and pressure without the need for invasive procedures. By capturing optical signals from the skin, the device aims to provide reliable blood pressure readings, especially for infants in critical care settings. This approach addresses the limitations of traditional blood pressure monitoring methods that can be inaccurate or risky for newborns.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are neonates, particularly those in neonatal intensive care units who require close monitoring of their blood pressure.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than four weeks or those who do not require blood pressure monitoring may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more accurate blood pressure monitoring for newborns, improving their care and outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using non-invasive optical sensors for blood pressure monitoring, but this specific application in neonates is novel.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.