The awarded patent is the second of many pending patents by ISSYS for its MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical systems) technology for safe, chronic, fast, detailed, real-time, continuous, bio-pressure measurements. ISSYS' patent portfolio covers a wide spectrum from MEMS pressure sensor to the overall system, to delivery and anchoring, and to medical applications. The technology supports the trend towards home health monitoring and has thepotential to revolutionize the way many diseases are treated. The particular targets of ISSYS products are cardiovascular disease, especially congestive heart failure, and hydrocephalus (high brain pressure) disease.
The bio-pressure monitoring system consists of two major parts: an implantable, batteryless, telemetric sensor and a companion hand-held reader. The miniature implantable micro-device, suitable for implantation directly (via a custom catheter for minimally invasive, outpatient procedure), contains a MEMS pressure sensor along with custom electronics and a telemetry antenna. Using magnetic telemetry, the reader transmits power to the sensor, and the sensed pressure is in turn transmitted back to the reader. Physicians will use the data collected by the sensor to tailor treatments. The data collection can be performed at the doctor's office or at home by the patient and submitted over the telephone or net.
Company Background: ISSYS is a leader in advanced micromachining technologies for medical devices, microfluidic and scientific analytical sensing applications used in the development of drug infusion pumps and wireless, implantable sensing systems. Founded in 1995 by world-renowned leaders in MEMS technology, ISSYS is one of the oldest independent MEMS companies in the United States. An ISO 9001:2000-certified organization, ISSYS operates an "everything under one roof" multi-million-dollar, state-of-the-art Bio-MEMS fabrication facility located near Ann Arbor, Mich. For more company, product, and service information, please visit the company Web site.