Tattoo-Like Sensor Could Provide Continuous Monitoring of Vital Signs

Sometimes a doctor needs to measure his or her patient’s cardiac activity for longer than a brief ECG reading would record. In this instance, a physician might prescribe a Holter monitor to record long-term vital signs during normal physical activity, but these devices can have some drawbacks. They might be bulky to wear and could cause itchiness and skin irritations where they are attached to the body. And they don’t provide information in real time. Umana Medical Technologies has developed products that aim to make wearing a heart monitor more convenient for patients and offer the ability of being able to transmit information as it occurs. For instance, the T1 system, currently in patient trials in Europe, includes a tattoo sensor, a monitor, and an app that work together to gather and analyze clinical-grade data in real time using advanced algorithms. Krystle Attard Trevison, the company’s cofounder and director, tells MD+DI that the tattoo sensor uses a specially developed adhesive-like applicator to release its nanomaterial conductive ink directly onto the skin. It does not need conductive gel, and it integrates seamlessly with the top epidermal layer of skin. The sensor can be worn for up to five days if it is not subjected to harsh treatment, such as scrubbing while showering. A protective film helps make the tattoo sensor waterproof and last longer. The T1 monitor attaches to the sensor, either by the patient for real-time measurements, or by a doctor when in H...
Source: MDDI - Category: Medical Devices Authors: Tags: Digital Health Source Type: news