Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new generation of cardiovascular stents with diagnostic capabilities for evaluating in-stent restenosis (ISR) and occlusion in coronary arteries. These smart stents integrate mechanical metamaterial and nano energy harvesting technologies, enabling early recognition of post-operative stent complications without obstructing blood flow. The stents function as stand-alone sensors and nanogenerators, providing continuous monitoring of restenosis through wireless interrogation.
Description
The proposed diagnostic metamaterial cardiovascular stents are composed of finely tailored triboelectric auxetic microstructures that generate electrical signals in response to mechanical deformations caused by arterial pulsations. These signals are proportional to the radial compressive forces exerted on the stent structure, allowing for the detection of ISR. The stents operate without the need for additional electronics, external power sources, or data loggers, relying solely on their constituent components.
Applications
• Non-invasive monitoring of in-stent restenosis (ISR)
• Early detection of post-operative stent complications
• Mechanical tunability for adaptation to blood vessel motions
Advantages
This technology offers several key advantages: it provides continuous and accurate monitoring of ISR without obstructing blood flow, eliminates the need for additional electronics or external power sources, and enables wireless interrogation through electrocardiography. The stents' ability to generate electrical signals from mechanical deformations enhances their functionality as both diagnostic tools and potential therapeutic devices for accelerating wound healing. The metamaterial nature of the stents enables mechanical tuning to adapt to blood vessel motions.
Invention Readiness
The technology is currently at the prototype stage, with initial proof-of-concept studies demonstrating its feasibility and effectiveness. The prototypes have been tested in vitro, showing that the stents can accurately detect changes in radial compressive forces. The research team has conducted mechanical deformation tests to validate the triboelectric auxetic microstructures' ability to generate electrical signals. Additionally, wireless interrogation tests have been performed to ensure the stents can be monitored non-invasively via electrocardiography.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2024091665A1
