Minimally invasive flexible, wireless multimodal probe to detect compartment syndrome

Abstract Acute Compartment Syndrome (ACS) is a serious medical condition that arises from increased pressure within muscle compartments, leading to impaired blood flow and potential tissue damage. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for preventing permanent damage. Current methods rely largely on qualitative assessments with limited accuracy, and those that exploit invasive pressure measurements often prove inadequate. Herein, we introduce a multimodal probe designed to monitor pressure, tissue oxygen saturation (StO2), and blood flow simultaneously at a common location within an affected compartment. The system integrates three sensors into a thin, flexible probe capable of real-time, wireless data transmission. The device allows for continuous monitoring with high reproducibility and sensitivity, to enhance diagnostic accuracy relative to current clinical practice, with the potential to reduce unnecessary fasciotomies. Large animal model studies, including short- and intermediate-term reliability assessments, highlight the key engineering features. The results reveal expected inverse relationships between pressure, StO2, and flow rate under simulated compartment syndrome conditions. This multimodal approach enhances diagnostic precision, offers real-time insights, and promises to yield improved outcomes through a comprehensive, quantitative assessment of compartment syndrome.