Wearable Device For Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Detection

A wearable ultrasound patch developed by UC, San Diego researchers enable continuous, non-invasive blood pressure detection, potentially transforming cardiovascular care.

Researchers at the University of California (UC), San Diego, have introduced a wearable ultrasound patch capable of continuous, non-invasive blood pressure detection and monitoring. This innovative device, validated through comprehensive testing involving 117 participants, presents a more accessible and reliable alternative to traditional methods like cuffs and invasive arterial lines.

The soft, elastic patch, approximately the size of a postage stamp, uses ultrasound waves to measure changes in blood vessel diameter, translating them into precise blood pressure readings. Designed to be worn on the forearm, the patch employs piezoelectric transducers and flexible copper electrodes, offering real-time monitoring. It aims to address the limitations of conventional blood pressure cuffs, which capture only sporadic readings, often missing critical variations in blood pressure patterns.

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“This device provides a continuous stream of blood pressure waveform data, enabling the detection of detailed trends,” noted Sai Zhou, co-author and PhD candidate, UC San Diego.

The device is particularly beneficial for patients with conditions requiring regular blood pressure monitoring, such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and post-surgical recovery. Additionally, it offers a practical solution for clinicians seeking non-invasive methods to track blood pressure trends in intensive care units or during outpatient care. By ensuring continuous readings, the patch can help avoid complications associated with irregular monitoring practices.

The patch stems from earlier prototypes developed by Sheng Xu, professor of nanoengineering, UC San Diego, but incorporates significant advancements. The redesigned transducer array targets smaller arteries, improving signal clarity and tracking accuracy, while a backing layer minimises extraneous vibrations.

Validation tests conducted on patients in diverse scenarios including physical activities, mental tasks, and post-surgical care demonstrated results comparable to those from arterial lines and blood pressure cuffs. “Blood pressure readings can vary due to factors like daily activities or medication. Testing this device in varied settings was crucial to ensure accuracy,” explained Professor Sheng Xu.

Researchers are now working on refining a wireless, battery-powered version for integration into hospital systems and exploring its potential through machine learning. Large-scale clinical trials are also planned to confirm its efficacy and usability in broader applications. This development represents a significant stride toward improving diagnostic accuracy and patient comfort in managing cardiovascular conditions.