A simple method for subcutaneous vein detection in self-cannulation mapping of home hemodialysis

Although home hemodialysis (HHD) benefits patients including improving their lives’ quality, self-cannulation is currently a limiting and challenging step in their treatment. In this study, we aim to solve this problem by developing an epidermal film/patch with a vein visualization capability. A detachable mobile needle-guide tool can be mounted on the epidermal patch which can help patients to accurately perform self-cannulation through their skin. To conveniently connect and disconnect the needle guide segment to the epidermal pad, employing a simple and cheap magnet at the bottom base clip of the needle guide segment, as well as incorporating magnetic nanoparticles as nanofiller into the patch top-layer will fulfill our target. At last, the patients’ satisfaction toward their self-cannulation in comparison with previous methods will be monitored through surveys and questionnaires.

Faculty Supervisor:

Patrick C Lee;Patrick Lee

Student:

Partner:

University Health Network

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Toronto

Program: