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Can measuring pressure near an implant detect complications like inflammation and infection before they become severe?

This is a central question in the five-year research project UTMOST (“Ultra-Thin Monitoring Sensors for Implants”), which has received 25 million SEK in funding from the Swedish Research Council. The project brings together experts from Chalmers, KTH, and the University 91̽�� (Department of Biomaterials, Institute of Clinical 91̽��s).

If we can measure what happens at the implant site during the healing process and even in the long term, it could revolutionize healthcare

“Sensors have, in a way, always been the 'Holy Grail' of biomaterials research. Getting information from inside the body, so that problems with implants can be identified early, has long been a dream. Despite many attempts, successful integration of sensors into biomaterials has yet to be achieved,” says Anders Palmquist, professor of biomaterials at the Institute of Clinical 91̽��s.

“If we can measure what happens at the implant site during the healing process and even in the long term, it could revolutionize healthcare,” says Associate Professor Margarita Trobos.

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Battery-free and wireless sensors

The project aims to develop battery-free, wireless sensors that can be integrated into implants. These sensors will monitor pressure changes in the tissue surrounding the implant.

“Inflammation and infection are two of the most common reasons implants fail. One of the major challenges is understanding the relationship between pressure changes and these conditions. Exploring this connection is our focus within the project,” says Margarita Trobos.

The sensors’ pressure sensitivity is based on the advanced material graphene. Graphene is an exceptionally thin material, made up of a single layer of carbon atoms, with excellent conductive properties.

“It’s an exciting technology. By placing molecular ‘springs’ between the graphene layers, we can measure tiny pressure changes with great precision,” explains Anders Palmquist.

Interdisciplinary collaboration

The research within UTMOST is built on close collaboration between three disciplines: materials science, signal processing, and biology/medicine. Chalmers develops the sensors, KTH is responsible for signal processing, and the University 91̽�� focuses on the biology surrounding implants and how the body reacts to them.

“This is an interdisciplinary project that none of the partners could manage on their own. Integrating research from three fields is crucial, and this combination makes the project unique and particularly exciting,” says Margarita Trobos.

To test the sensors’ functionality, the project includes in vitro studies, where the sensors will be tested in controlled laboratory environments, followed by animal studies. The researchers hope to demonstrate how pressure changes relate to inflammation and infection, and that the pressure sensors can provide clear signals.

Hopes and challenges

Implants often remain in the body for many years, placing high demands on the durability and biocompatibility of the sensors.

“One important aspect is minimizing the risk of the sensors themselves causing inflammation. We need to ensure that the materials are completely biocompatible,” says Anders Palmquist.

The research team hopes the sensors will provide real-time information, enabling timely treatment of complications such as infections, by detecting early bacterial biofilm formation on the implant.

“The earlier we can act, the better the outcomes. Reducing complications and the need for reoperations would be a major benefit for both patients and healthcare systems,” says Margarita Trobos.

The UTMOST project begins this January and will run through 2029.

Text: Jakob Lundberg