Date of Award

6-6-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Publisher

Santa Clara : Santa Clara University, 2025

Department

Bioengineering

First Advisor

Emre Araci

Abstract

This thesis presents the design of a novel microfluidic sensor for continuous monitoring of intracranial pressure (ICP), intended as a less invasive alternative to current monitoring techniques. The sensor targets patients with critical and chronic neurological conditions, aiming to provide real-time data on ICP fluctuations. The microfluidic intracranial pressure sensor is designed for implantation beneath the skull, on the dura mater, and integrates a PDMS-based microfluidic strain sensor with wireless data transmission. Initial testing focuses on optimizing sensor design and integration with a microcontroller. Preliminary benchtop testing demonstrates the sensor's capability to detect ICP with a minimum sensitivity of 5 mbar. Wireless data transmission was integrated by using a microcontroller to turn resistance measurements into readable pressure values using a voltage divider circuit and calibration equation. This cost effective alternative to ICP detection gives real-time data which may improve clinical decisionmaking, enable early detection of ICP changes, and reduce the need for invasive procedures and MRI-associated complications.

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