Microtech, a subsidiary of Israel-based Medinol, has launched human clinical trials for its microsensor platform that measures atrial pressures, a key factor in heart failure treatment.
Erez Sharoni conducted the first implant at Beilinson Medical Center in Petah-Tikva, Israel.
The Microtech implantable microsensor platform is a new sensor technology that is extremely small, passive, and communicates via ultrasound. It is designed to function independently or integrate with existing medical devices.
This technology also transforms existing implants into smart devices, capable of data collection and multi-functionality.
Sharoni said: “This amazing technology may change the standard of care for patients suffering from heart failure and in particular, in this current study, those who are receiving LVADs or heart transplants.”
Heart failure specialists will collect and analyse data from the implanted sensors to guide clinical decisions.
According to Tuvia Ben-Gal, head of Heart Failure at Rabin Medical Center, heart failure involves periods of quiescence followed by deterioration, often leading to frequent hospitalisations. This technology enables real-time tracking of patient parameters, allowing for earlier intervention and potentially reducing morbidity and mortality.
Medinol CEO Yoram Richter said: “Using a compact home unit, a patient with a Microtech-enabled implant can deliver immediate and highly accurate pressure readings directly to their physician turning geographical distance or mobility challenges into a non-issue.
“This unique ability is transformative for a wide range of clinical scenarios, including patients suffering from Heart Failure, Glaucoma, Hydrocephalous, Portal Hypertension, AAA Endoleaks and many more, providing wider healthcare access and fewer office/hospital visits.
“Most importantly, from the standpoint of treating clinicians and device manufacturers, sensor-enabled smart-devices will go beyond acute anatomical fixes, extending treatment to lifetime patient care.”
Medinol is focused on creating advanced stenting devices for multiple areas of the body to reduce complications in structural heart procedures.
In October this year, the cardiovascular medical devices maker completed the first-in-human implantation of its ChampioNIR Drug-Eluting Peripheral Stent.
