ST+D Ltd., a Belfast, Northern Ireland firm, which is an Ulster University spinoff, is developing a portable wireless cardiac sensor. ST+D is currently evaluating its patch device, dubbed VitalSens, together with the Royal Victoria Hospital in a project which has been funded by the Wellcome Trust, the UK’s largest medical research charity.
Here’s what we know about the company’s technology:
ST+D has developed a Wireless Vital Signs Platform which is optimised for unobtrusive wear by ambulatory patients. Multiple vital signs are monitored by a highly miniaturised chest-worn device. These vital signs can include respiration, oxygen in the blood, motion, temperature and ECG. Intelligent triggers, for example on any one of 10 ECG arrhythmias, are processed within the chest-worn device. This means that only the exceptional information is transmitted, resulting in extended battery life – often a weakness in ambulatory patient monitors.
By using a completely new type of patch electrode combined with novel signal processing, the unwanted motion artefact signals are largely reduced leaving only the real signal – even as the patient moves around.
The ST+D Wireless Vital Signs Platform can be customised to provide various wireless products for both in-hospital and at-home monitoring. The elements which can be provided include :Motion artefact optimised, non-irritant, easy-to-apply patch electrodes for high quality collection of the vital signs from ambulatory patients Long battery life, 7 days in some applications On-board intelligence to monitor and trigger on medical events eg arrhythmias Various wireless options including Bluetooth, wifi and cellular to send data immediately to the clinician Examples of products which can be developed from this platform include Holter monitors, in-hospital multiple vital signs monitors and aids for independent aging.
Traditional Holter systems monitor ECG for 24 hours and then are returned for the data to be analysed. The ST+D system recognises 10 different heart arrhythmias sending this information directly to the clinician. This results in much faster treatment, often allowing easier preventative steps instead of the distress of more invasive later procedures.ECG available instantly for improved patient outcomes Fully automatic, no buttons to press or numbers to dial Lightweight & unobtrusive for normal life during monitoring Sensors can be worn on the body for days and even worn in the shower Minimisation of motion artefacts – high quality results even when moving around
ST+D…
Technology brochure (pdf)…
Press release: ST+D announces breakthrough device supported by Wellcome Trust…
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