Novel implantable sensor for non-invasive intracranial pressure monitoring

Stanford scientists, physicians, and engineers have developed a novel approach for continuous and on-demand monitoring of intracranial pressure (ICP) in both inpatient and outpatient settings using a small microfluidic sensor. ICP monitoring can be useful in the management of patients with space-occupying lesions, head injuries, and other conditions that can cause abnormal ICP, as well as in the aftermath of cranial surgery. Elevated ICP is a major cause of death and long-term disability in patients with head injuries and other intracranial pathological conditions. Currently, invasive methods of ICP monitoring provide accurate measurements and are viewed as the most reliable way to assess ICP in acute conditions. However, these methods are not suitable for long-term monitoring due to the associated risks and carry a number of disadvantages including increased complication rate with prolonged usage, data acquisition under restricted conditions of bed-bound patients with limited movements, infection and bleeding, and sensor displacement leading to inaccurate readings. The inventors developed a small microfluidic sensor without electromechanical components to overcome these limitations, enabling greater mobility, less maintenance, lower cost, and easy modifications to enhance the accuracy of ICP sensing. The solution can be applied to various conditions where ICP monitoring is required such as traumatic brain injury, hydrocephalus, and stroke.