Aneurysms are often referred to as ticking time bombs. Most occur when an area of an artery – usually abdominal aorta – balloons out. If the aneurysm ruptures, it can be fatal.
Most patients have frequent computed tomography scans to look for leaks. However, a new study uses a tiny implant and antenna to work as an internal watchdog to predict possibility of leak or impending rupture.
Dr. Milner, from Emory University in Atlanta, says, “The pressure sensors let us know what the pressure is in the aneurysm sac and will hopefully allow us to detect problems sooner.” He says 110 people have had the implant put in with no complications. So far, the results look good.
“Right now, our main goal is it’ll eliminate the possible bad side effects of a CT scan,” Dr. Milner says. Those effects include radiation exposure as well as danger to the kidneys from the contrast dyes used with CT scans.
Dr. Milner says in the future, patients may be able to be monitored from home by placing a unit next to them and then sending the information via phone line to the doctor’s office. However, he says that is still several years away
Reference – Ivanhoe Medical Breakthroughs
