Radar-BP
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Clinical validation of contactless radar blood pressure device
IRAS ID
328944
Contact name
Gabriella Captur
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London JRO
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z6364106/2023/07/135, UCL Data Protection number
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
High blood pressure (BP) is the biggest risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. There are several devices available for measuring BP, but these devices can be uncomfortable and inaccurate.
Astrophysicists use radar systems and image-processing algorithms to detect the movement of distant stars. We have repurposed this technology into a compact tripod-mounted device with a camera that can take measurements called ballistocardiograms and pulse transit times to measure blood pressure from a distance of 1 metre. This device works by detecting changes on the skin produced by the heartbeat and pulse that are not visible to the human eye. Blood pressure systems that use radar show promise but have not been clinically practical so far.
Firstly, we will compare radar BP to auscultatory BP (a BP machine using a cuff that is inflated and deflated) in a group of patients with known high blood pressure (n=25).This is currently the recommended method for validating new BP devices.
We will then compare radar BP with invasive BP (measured by placing a small tube in an artery) in patients (n=25) undergoing a clinically-indicated angiogram at the Royal Free Hospital.
Next we will develop a radar device capable of measuring BP in patients lying inside the cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) scanner. The radar BP derived in the CMR scanner will be compared to oscillometric BP (another cuff-based BP device).
Finally, we will compare radar-BP with oscillometric BP in a group of participants during exercise including sit-to-stand movements (n=25) and using a bike ergometer (n=25).
A safe, contactless and accurate radar-BP device has the potential to enable ubiquitous BP monitoring in the clinic, home and CMR scanner-bore, whilst reducing the staff workload, infections and discomfort associated with devices that are currently used.REC name
West of Scotland REC 4
REC reference
24/WS/0027
Date of REC Opinion
5 Apr 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion