Wireless sensors for tracking cerebrospinal fluid in hydrocephalus patients
Official title: Development of wireless, wearable flow sensors for continuous, long-term tracking of cerebrospinal fluid dynamics in patients with hydrocephalus
Funded at Rhaeos, INC. · NIH-10930877 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new wearable device called Flow Sense that helps people with hydrocephalus by continuously tracking the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, making it easier for doctors to monitor their condition without any invasive procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rhaeos, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Evanston, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $264,167 |
| NIH project number | 5UG3NS130338-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930877 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with hydrocephalus who have undergone shunt placement.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without hydrocephalus or those who do not have a shunt may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a wearable, wireless sensor that continuously monitors cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics in patients with hydrocephalus. The device, called Flow Sense, uses miniaturized thermal sensors to detect fluid flow through the skin, allowing for noninvasive monitoring of shunt function. By providing continuous data, especially during sleep, the research aims to improve patient care and understanding of hydrocephalus management. This innovative approach addresses significant gaps in current diagnostic methods for this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring and management of hydrocephalus, enhancing patient outcomes and reducing complications associated with shunt malfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of continuous monitoring in hydrocephalus is innovative, similar technologies in other medical fields have shown promise, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Rhaeos, INC.
Evanston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Webb, Richard Chad — Rhaeos, INC.
- Study coordinator: Webb, Richard Chad
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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.