Precision-Microfabricated Fiber-Optic Probe for Intravascular Pressure and Temperature Sensing

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Optical Sensing Technologies
• Medical Device Innovation

Background:

• Miniaturized fiber-optic sensors are crucial for minimally invasive intravascular diagnostics.
• Current manufacturing complexities limit the adoption of multi-parameter sensing probes.
• Rapid prototyping of sensor designs for medical devices remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel technique for constructing microscale extrinsic fiber-optic sensors.
• To enable simultaneous pressure and temperature measurements using a unique sensor design.
• To facilitate rapid prototyping and design iteration for advanced medical sensors.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a microscale extrinsic fiber-optic sensor with a confined air cavity and sub-micron resolution.
• Integration of a pressure-sensitive diaphragm and a temperature-sensitive microlens.
• Optical interrogation using phase-resolved low-coherence interferometry (LCI).

Main Results:

• Demonstrated simultaneous pressure and temperature sensing capabilities.
• Achieved pressure sensitivity of 0.11 mmHg (760–1060 mmHg range).
• Achieved temperature sensitivity of 0.036 °C (34–50 °C range).

Conclusions:

• The novel sensor technique offers high sensitivity for intravascular physiological monitoring.
• The design flexibility enables a wide range of fiber-optic sensors for minimally invasive procedures.
• This technology is poised to advance diagnostic capabilities in interventional medicine.