tenda Health

Researchers supported by the NIBIB created a flexible, wearable patch that can assess blood pressure and predict cardiovascular abnormalities. This device could someday benefit diabetics, who are more likely than non-diabetics to have high high blood pressure and heart problems.

The wearable patch uses ultrasound waves to measure the dimensions of a pulsing blood artery to monitor blood pressure. The measures are converted into data that can be utilized to detect excessive blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and heart valve abnormalities using software.

Obtaining a central blood pressure is not always easy. Other non-invasive gadgets can monitor blood flow in major vessels near the aorta, but the results aren’t always correct. The use of a handheld probe controlled by a technician limits the use of blood pressure ultrasound technologies, which can result in erroneous and fluctuating results. Because the instrument must be held at extremely certain angles and pressures to achieve the finest data, readings vary a lot between tests and operators. The most precise method necessitates an invasive operation in which a sensor is implanted into the aorta via a groin or wrist artery. However, in this study, the researchers used an innovative strategy to construct a more accurate prototype by combining ultrasound, wearables, and computer software.

“I am hopeful that our gadget can one day empower patients and augment public healthcare,” said Xu, PhD, the study’s main researcher from the University of California San Diego.