Functionalised optical fibre multiparameter sensing platform for monitoring during artificial ventilation

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Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP) is a major health problem resulting in death, prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stay and costs of >£nbn worldwide. Endotracheal tube colonization and biofilm formation play a key role in VAP. Maintenance of the respiratory function of mechanically ventilated patients requires adequate humidification, even in non-invasive ventilation in which inadequate humidification and heating of the inspired air has been associated with functional deterioration of nasal mucosa and can also lead to VAP. Thus, humidification and temperature are important factors of modern intensive care practice.At the present, there is no technology available to conduct in situ measurement of biofilm growth on an ETT or humidity and temperature of the artificial air delivered to the lungs.The project will exploit cutting edge sensing techniques based on an array of optical fibre long period gratings in order to produce a prototype multiparameter instrument for a clinical setting to reduce VAP risk, aid early diagnosis and guide treatment. Each sensing element of the optical fibre sensor array will be modified using an appropriate sensitive layer to achieve optimal response to the key parameters of the ETT, such as temperature, humidity and biofilm formation. Novel advanced materials such as molecular imprinting and mesoporous functional films will be utilised as sensitive layers. During the course of the project the device will be tested on clinical equipment, typically used in ICU, in a laboratory setting to demonstrate proof of concept to proceed to clinical studies. The proposal combines technology push with clinical pull and matches the aspirations of the "Optimising Treatment" Grand Challenge identified by EPSRC to address the optimisation of care through effective diagnosis, patient-specific prediction and evidence-based intervention. The proposal is multidisciplinary in nature combining expertise in photonics, chemistry and analytical science. The output and impact of the research will be maximised through the involvement of Dr Andy Norris at Nottingham University Hospitals Trust and the involvement of an ETT manufacturer (P3 Medical, a UK SME specialising in the manufacture of innovative, airway devices).