Novel Conformal Skin Patch with Embedded Thin-Film Electrodes for Early Detection of Extravasation

Extravasation is a complication of intravenous (IV) cannulation in which vesicant drugs leak from a vein into the surrounding subcutaneous tissue. The severity of extravasation depends on the type, concentration, and volume of drugs that accumulate in the subcutaneous tissue. Rapid detection of extravasation can facilitate prompt medical intervention, minimizing tissue damage, and preventing adverse events. In this study, we present two portable sensor patches, namely gold- and carbon-based sensing patches, for early detection of extravasation. The gold-based sensor patch detected extravasated fluid of volume as low as 2 mL in in vivo animal models and human clinical trials; the patch exhibited a resistance change of 41%. The carbon-based sensor patch exhibited a resistance change of 51% for 2 mL of extravasated fluid, and fabrication throughput and cost-effectiveness are superior for this patch compared with the gold-based sensing patch.

Automated summary

Extravasation is a complication of intravenous cannulation that can lead to leakage of vesicant drugs into surrounding tissues. Early detection of extravasation is crucial for prompt medical intervention to minimize tissue damage. In this study, two portable sensor patches - gold-based and carbon-based - were developed for early detection of extravasation. The gold-based sensor patch detected extravasated fluid as low as 2 mL with a 41% resistance change, while the carbon-based sensor patch showed a 51% resistance change for the same volume, with superior fabrication throughput and cost-effectiveness.