Wireless contact lens sensor for intraocular pressure monitoring: assessment on enucleated pig eyes

Abstract

PURPOSE: Assessment on enucleated pig eyes of a novel and minimally invasive method for the continuous monitoring of intraocular pressure (IOP), based on a novel wireless contact lens sensor (CLS). METHODS: The wireless CLS is a disposable silicone soft contact lens with a sensor embedded in it, allowing the wireless measurement of changes in corneal curvature induced by IOP variations. A CLS was adapted and tested on enucleated pig eyes. To demonstrate the measurement principle of the device, the enucleated pig eye was cannulated, allowing precise control of IOP. The CLS signal was then compared to the imposed IOP. RESULTS: First, the IOP of enucleated pig eyes was changed between 11 and 14 mmHg, simulating ocular pulsation. Then, IOP was changed with static steps of 1 mmHg between 20 and 30 mmHg to assess the reproducibility and linearity of the CLS. In both cases, measurements from the CLS and IOP showed very good correlation. A calibration graph shows that the CLS is capable of monitoring the IOP of each individual eye with a reproducibility of +/- 0.2 mmHg (95% confidence interval). CONCLUSION: The wireless CLS shows a good functionality to monitor the IOP on enucleated pig eyes. The device is placed in the same way as a soft disposable contact lens. This device would allow a minimally invasive and continuous monitoring of IOP over prolonged periods of up to 24 hr, regardless of patient activity, thus opening up new diagnostic and therapeutic methods to manage glaucoma.