Inline tonometer commercial MEMS contact lens 掀 medical electronic new storm

STMicroelectronics, a global market leader in consumer electronics and portable device MEMS devices, announced the development of a wireless MEMS sensor for the breakthrough platform designed by Sensimed AG of Switzerland. This unique sensor embedded in contact lenses can be attached to the platform. The data readout transducers, antennas and mechanical support components of the electronic system. This solution is more effective in treating glaucoma patients through early diagnosis and tailored optimal treatments for individuals.

The solution, named SENSIMED Triggerfish, is based on a "smart" contact lens that uses an embedded micro strain gage to continuously monitor the curvature of the eye over a period of time (usually 24 hours), providing physicians with an existing common ophthalmology Important disease management data that the device cannot obtain.

Glaucoma is the second most common blind eye disease in the world. It is an irreversible progressive ocular neuropathy that can eventually lead to blindness in both eyes. Although glaucoma is not curable, it can still control the progression of the disease if it is diagnosed in time and properly treated. The standard test is to periodically check the intraocular pressure (IOP) using an tonometer at the ophthalmologist's clinic. However, tonometers may not detect elevated intraocular pressure, especially in glaucoma patients, because intraocular pressure varies from day to day, usually peaking outside of sleep or clinic, often only when the ocular nerve is greatly damaged. After that, the condition was diagnosed. Because of the lack of timely treatment, the condition of many glaucoma patients is deteriorating.

Sensimed's innovative solution consists of two components: a smart contact lens and a small receiver worn on the patient's neck. In addition to the strain gage, the contact lens also incorporates an antenna, a miniature dedicated processing circuit, and a radio frequency transmitter that transmits measurement data to the receiver. The contact lens's power comes from the received radio waves, so there is no need to connect the battery. The embedded components are cleverly placed on the lens and do not interfere with the patient's field of view. The contact lens is assembled by the ophthalmologist. When the patient returns to the next day, the ophthalmologist removes the glasses and receiver and can read the complete IOP change data recorded in the past 24 hours.

Sensimed CEO Jean-Marc Wismer said: “Trying to prove that our unique platform brings great benefits to glaucoma treatment, the next step is to promote this product to more medical centers in selected regions. STMicroelectronics in high precision MEMS The performance of sensor development is outstanding, and it has the complete ability to cooperate with innovative partners, which is naturally the preferred partner in the key stage."

SENSIMED Triggerfish has achieved the CE mark and is currently undergoing a large-scale trial and has a product for commercial sale at a designated medical center. “This device is easy to use and greatly simplifies and improves patient care,” said Dr. Kaweh Mansouri, who piloted Triggerfish at the University Hospital of Geneva in Switzerland.

STMicroelectronics engineers are working with Sensimed to turn this groundbreaking technology into a reliable mass-production MEMS product. STMicroelectronics expects to complete the development and design of MEMS sensors in the second quarter of 2010 and put into mass production in the third quarter of 2010. It must be approved by relevant regulations before it can be promoted to other doctors and patients outside the trial center. Sensimed and STMicroelectronics are expected to launch in European countries starting in the third quarter of 2010 and enter the US market by the end of 2011.

Benedetto Vigna, General Manager of STMicroelectronics' MEMS, Sensors and High-Performance Analog Products Division, said: "STMicroelectronics is particularly focused on developing wireless sensor networks for diagnostics and other medical devices . This self-powered wireless sensor is used in innovative products. It is expected to treat millions of potential and existing glaucoma patients. Sensimed's innovative applications are a perfect example of how STMicroelectronics works with healthcare professionals to combine two completely different disciplines and skills to leverage our manufacturing base. Facilities to improve people's health and well-being."