Development of an Inflatable Stent with Integrated 2D Sensor for Continuous Cardiovascular Pressure Monitoring

Chronic heart failure (HF) and related conditions, including pulmonary hypertension and valvular diseases, are leading causes of hospital admissions, imposing significant burdens on healthcare systems worldwide. Effective management of these conditions relies heavily on continuous haemodynamic monitoring; however, current pulmonary artery (PA) pressure monitoring methods, such as the Swan-Ganz catheter and the CardioMEMS system, are associated with high costs, risks of infection and thrombosis, and the need for ICU-based procedures. There remains an unmet clinical need for a minimally invasive, cost-effective, and reliable solution to facilitate continuous PA pressure monitoring, particularly in outpatient settings.

;This project explores an innovative approach to PA pressure monitoring through the development of a next-generation stent that seamlessly integrates into the vascular environment with minimal disruption to blood flow. By leveraging advanced materials and sensor technologies, the proposed solution aims to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of remote cardiovascular monitoring while addressing the limitations of existing systems.

;The proposed research will focus on optimising the design, fabrication, and functional evaluation of this device, ensuring its suitability for long-term implantation and real-time data acquisition. If successful, this work has the potential to significantly improve the management of HF and related conditions, enabling earlier intervention and reducing hospital readmissions through enhanced personalised care.