Project

Cardiovascular diseases are globally recognized as one of the leading causes of death. Hypertension stands out as a significant risk factor for their development, and targeted treatment can effectively reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. Nowadays, blood pressure measurements are primarily conducted using one of two methods: non-invasive measurement using a cuff placed around the upper arm, or invasive measurement in the arterial line. However, neither of these methods is suitable for continuous blood pressure monitoring in regular hospital wards or during home rehabilitation. The technique of digital PPG (PhotoPlethysMography) shows promising results in this regard.

The aim of the project being carried out by FreeSense Solutions, SmartQare, TU/e, and Eurocept is to develop a prototype of an innovative wearable and fully wireless system for continuous cuff-less blood pressure monitoring within 3 years. This system, based on photoplethysmography (PPG), will be validated as a service for both in-patients and out-patients, particularly those receiving cardiovascular care.

• The objective is to achieve significant cost savings for cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients undergoing clinical cardiovascular intervention through three mechanisms: 1. Cost savings through the use of digitization in collaboration between medical specialists and home care by preparing the patient well for the intervention, especially in terms of fitness, based on continuous cardio-sensing, 2. Accurate post-operative monitoring enabling calculated hospital discharge up to 2 days earlier than nominal and subsequently, 3. Home monitoring linked to any necessary follow-up treatment and medication dosing to detect deviations early and separate post-operative stress from medical complications, thereby preventing unnecessary costly emergency room visits.
• This will be accomplished through the development and implementation of a non-invasive, continuous blood pressure reconstruction based on PPG for perioperative and rehabilitating (home) patients, specifically those recovering from or preparing for cardiovascular surgery. The central focus is on preventing or quickly detecting complications and accurately dosing medication for blood pressure regulation.
• The solution will be integrated into two types of comfortable micro-wearables that meet high standards of medical reliability, certification, and thus are suitable for cardiologic care. A further goal is to increase accuracy and reliability by using dual-location wearables and being able to eliminate interim (and uncomfortable) cuff-pump calibrations.
• The implementation of this innovation will be validated by the Catharina Hospital for the pre- and postoperative phases in the hospital and by Eurocept in the home rehabilitation phase, as well as addressing challenges in making chain agreements.

By continuously and reliably measuring heart rate, cardiovascular diseases can be prevented, leading to significant health benefits. The PRESSURE project thus contributes to the transition to more efficient and affordable healthcare.