Stretchable catheter could help identify high-risk arterial plaque

Zhao's project, "High-Resolution 3D Electrical Impedance Mapping of Metabolically Active Plaques Using Multilayered Stretchable Liquid Metal Electronics," uses electrical measurements to reveal features of arterial plaque that conventional imaging isn't able to capture. "Rather than replacing existing imaging technologies, the catheter is designed to provide physicians with additional information about plaque composition and metabolic activity," Zhao explained.

Hangbo Zhao, assistant professor of aerospace and mechanical engineering and biomedical engineering, USC Viterbi School of EngineeringBlood vessels present a particularly demanding engineering challenge because they are soft, curved and constantly in motion, while the electronics inside most medical devices remain rigid."

His group addresses that mismatch by developing mechanics-driven manufacturing techniques that fabricate multilayered stretchable circuits from liquid metal, allowing the sensing surface to conform closely to the artery while maintaining reliable electrical performance.

"I'm thrilled by this award because it enables us to translate our advances in soft electronics manufacturing into next-generation surgical tools," Zhao said.

The stretchable electronics are integrated onto a balloon catheter that can be threaded through narrow arteries in a compact configuration. Once the catheter reaches the target site, the balloon is gently inflated so the electronics make close, uniform contact with the vessel wall. This close contact is essential for obtaining consistent electrical measurements around the artery, allowing the device to create a three-dimensional map that could help physicians identify plaque at greater risk of rupture.

"The NIH Trailblazer Award represents a unique opportunity to bridge engineering and the life sciences," said Zhao. "This project has the potential to enable significant medical advances by introducing flexible devices that seamlessly integrate with living tissue."

Source:

USC Viterbi School of Engineering