Real-Time Monitoring and Automated Electrolyte Repletion Using Ion-Selective, Sensor-Integrated Central Venous Catheters - Project Summary: This study evaluates the performance limitations of a new ion sensor-integrated central venous catheter (CVC) and an autonomous system designed for real-time correction of electrolyte imbalances. In vitro and in vivo tests will measure the catheter’s accuracy, sensitivity, stability, and the system’s ability to autonomously correct electrolyte imbalances with clinician validation. The group aims to replace traditional basic metabolic panels in patients with an existing CVC, revolutionizing hospital care by enabling early detection and treatment of metabolic imbalances through automated systems while reducing the need for frequent blood draws and the associated risk of hospital-acquired anemia. Minimizing excessive blood drawn from critically ill patients is a major technical challenge in intensive care units. To replace current blood draw practices, real-time non-phlebotomous monitoring of blood electrolytes via an ion sensor-integrated CVC is proposed. This sensor technology provides real-time, continuous monitoring in noninvasive and invasive settings. For instance, intra-arterial blood glucose sensors have shown feasibility in improving diabetes management accuracy. The capability of in vivo ion sensing depends on maintaining the sensor surface’s integrity in blood environments while ensuring constant accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. The research proposes using a thin-film ion sensor with a protective membrane, established under 1 mm thick film structures that seamlessly adhere to catheter surfaces. This membrane will selectively penetrate target ions in the bloodstream and be made of biocompatible materials, potentially including antithrombotic agents. The study also introduces an automated electrolyte repletion system. Timely decision-making for electrolyte or fluid infusions via PIVs or CVCs is challenging due to delays in lab results. Continuous monitoring through a sensor-integrated catheter, combined with an infusion pumping system with repletion protocols, could significantly aid ICU practitioners in addressing acute physiological abnormalities. The system detects electrolyte imbalances using continuous catheter data, validated programmatically for each analyte. It alerts when electrolyte levels reach hypo- or hyper-status thresholds, enabling prompt implementation of repletion protocols. The proposed system will adapt to current clinical repletion protocols, controlling infusion quantity, time, and frequency. An integrated circuit board and application will analyze and determine the appropriate protocol, enhancing ICU operations by efficiently addressing acute physiological abnormalities. This approach promises to improve patient outcomes and streamline intensive care unit workflows.
