Using noninvasive sensors to improve monitoring of brain shunts
Enhancing Healthcare Delivery and Patient Outcomes: Noninvasive Wireless Sensors to Improve Ventricular Shunt Monitoring, Reduce Imaging, and Alleviate the Burden on Providers, Patients, and Families
This study is testing a new wearable device called FlowSense that helps people with hydrocephalus and shunts easily check how well their shunt is working, so they can avoid unnecessary trips to the hospital.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rhaeos, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Evanston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11069848 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a wearable device called FlowSense that can non-invasively monitor cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow in patients with implanted shunts for hydrocephalus. The device aims to provide quick and accurate assessments of shunt function without the need for radiation or invasive procedures. By improving the monitoring process, the research seeks to reduce unnecessary emergency department visits and the associated physical and mental burden on patients and their families. The approach leverages thermal anisotropy to deliver results in under 10 minutes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages who have undergone shunt implantation for hydrocephalus.
Not a fit: Patients without shunt implants or those with conditions unrelated to hydrocephalus may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the quality of life for patients with hydrocephalus by providing timely and accurate monitoring of shunt function.
How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches using noninvasive monitoring technologies have shown promise in other medical fields, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Evanston, United States
- Rhaeos, INC. — Evanston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Somera, Anna Lisa — Rhaeos, INC.
- Study coordinator: Somera, Anna Lisa
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.