Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
a
b
Fig. 16
Experimental results of a prototype CNT/PDMS flexible pressure sensor for a smart stent-
graft. (
a
) Capacitive changes versus pressure and (
b
) image of the sensor with 10 kPa external
pressure
10
Conclusions
Since its introduction, in the beginning of the 90s, EVAR became a viable alternative
for the treatment of aneurysms. Despite the benefits of being a minimally invasive
technique, recent cost-benefit analyses indicate that EVAR becomes more expensive
on the long-term since it requires surveillance mechanisms to detect eventual post-
EVAR problems, such as endoleaks and stent-graft migration.
Alternatives are currently being pursued to minimize the surveillance costs, and
pressure measurements in the aneurysm sac are an attractive solution. Some stand
alone pressure sensors are already available but the future will evolve to smart stent-
grafts, i.e., stent-grafts with embedded pressure sensors for post-EVAR surveillance.
