iWRAP: A Theranostic Wearable Device With Real-Time Vital Monitoring and Auto-Adjustable Compression Level for Venous...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Wearable Technology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant health concern with high mortality, often underdiagnosed.
• Current compression wraps lack diagnostic capabilities, necessitating improved management strategies.
• Wearable technology offers potential for chronic disease management through vital sign monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an intelligent theranostic compression device (iWRAP) for Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) patients.
• To integrate real-time vital sign monitoring with auto-adjustable compression therapy.
• To create a device with both therapeutic and diagnostic capacities for VTE management.

Main Methods:

• Integrated instantaneous pneumatic feedback control with a high-resolution pressure sensor for stable compression.
• Utilized arterial pulse waveforms from pressure readings to derive vital signs (HR, RR, BP).
• Employed an ALA model for blood pressure estimation at low compression levels.

Main Results:

• Achieved targeted compression delivery within ±5% accuracy (20-60 mmHg).
• Measured Heart Rate (HR) and Respiratory Rate (RR) with clinical-grade accuracy.
• Estimated Blood Pressure (BP) within clinically acceptable accuracy, enabling timely risk assessments for Pulmonary Embolism (PE).

Conclusions:

• iWRAP demonstrates potential as the first theranostic wearable device for VTE.
• The device offers continuous, accurate compression therapy.
• Enables real-time monitoring of life-threatening conditions in VTE patients.