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DISPOSABLE CATHETER MEASURES SWALLOWING PRESSURE

February 9, 2006

Researchers in Australia have developed a disposable solid-state catheter that can measure swallowing pressure. It is believed to be the first of its kind in the world.

The catheter is one of the new devices being developed in the field of BioMEMS, or bio-micro-electro-mechanical systems. The Lerner Research Institute of the Cleveland Clinic describes BioMEMS as microelectronics -- the same technology used to make more powerful, less expensive computer chips -- applied to the biomedical field.

"The new catheter uses solid-state sensors to measure the pressure of swallowing and eliminate the risk of fluid getting into the airway," said Hung-Yao Hsu, PhD, a researcher with the University of South Australia's School of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering. "These sensors are very responsive to pressure changes and give accurate, high-resolution, real-time readings," he said.

"And while most catheters on the market only measure pressure, the new catheter is multifunctional, capable of recording a range of measurements," Hsu said.

Existing catheters rely on the transmission of pressure through water-filled lumina to external transducers, said Hsu, who compared the mechanics with that of a garden hose. If the hose's outlet is blocked suddenly, pressure builds inside, he explained. This generates a pressure wave back to the hose's tap end, where it can be sensed.

Design concepts for the catheter have been verified through in vitro and in vivo testing, said Hsu. Its commercial launch is expected in two years.