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A soft thermal sensor for the continuous assessment of flow in vascular access

Author

Listed:
  • Yujun Deng

    (Shanghai Jiao Tong University
    Shanghai Jiao Tong University
    Northwestern University)

  • Hany M. Arafa

    (Northwestern University
    Northwestern University)

  • Tianyu Yang

    (Northwestern University
    Arizona State University)

  • Hassan Albadawi

    (Mayo Clinic
    Mayo Clinic)

  • Richard J. Fowl

    (Mayo Clinic)

  • Zefu Zhang

    (Mayo Clinic)

  • Viswajit Kandula

    (Northwestern University
    Northwestern University
    Northwestern University)

  • Ashvita Ramesh

    (Northwestern University
    Northwestern University
    Massachusetts General Hospital)

  • Chase Correia

    (Northwestern University
    Northwestern University)

  • Yonggang Huang

    (Northwestern University
    Northwestern University
    Northwestern University)

  • Rahmi Oklu

    (Mayo Clinic
    Mayo Clinic)

  • John A. Rogers

    (Northwestern University
    Northwestern University
    Northwestern University
    Northwestern University)

  • Andrea S. Carlini

    (Northwestern University
    University of California at Santa Barbara
    University of California at Santa Barbara
    University of California at Santa Barbara)

Abstract

Hemodialysis for chronic kidney disease (CKD) relies on vascular access (VA) devices, such as arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), grafts (AVG), or catheters, to maintain blood flow. Nonetheless, unpredictable progressive vascular stenosis due to neointimal formation or complete occlusion from acute thrombosis remains the primary cause of mature VA failure. Despite emergent surgical intervention efforts, the lack of a reliable early detection tool significantly reduces patient outcomes and survival rates. This study introduces a soft, wearable device that continuously monitors blood flow for early detection of VA failure. Using thermal anemometry, integrated sensors noninvasively measure flow changes in large vessels. Bench testing with AVF and AVG models shows agreement with finite element analysis (FEA) simulations, while human and preclinical swine trials demonstrate the device’s sensitivity. Wireless adaptation could enable at-home monitoring, improving detection of VA-related complications and survival in CKD patients.

Suggested Citation

  • Yujun Deng & Hany M. Arafa & Tianyu Yang & Hassan Albadawi & Richard J. Fowl & Zefu Zhang & Viswajit Kandula & Ashvita Ramesh & Chase Correia & Yonggang Huang & Rahmi Oklu & John A. Rogers & Andrea S., 2025. "A soft thermal sensor for the continuous assessment of flow in vascular access," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-024-54942-3
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-54942-3
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