Mounting of MEMS pressure sensors on catheter guide wires used in balloon angioplasty

摘要

This paper discusses a potential solution by mounting micro sensors on the tip of a 0.0018" catheter guidewire that can measure local fluid properties, such as pressure, pressure gradient, temperature, and species concentration levels. A design for mounting the sensors on the guidewire tip is proposed. The technique involves etching of picket shaped cavities on the silicon chip carrier. The MEMS sensor is then flip-chip bonded on to the silicon carrier. The design is biologically compatible, minimizing the exposure of potentially hazardous materials to the arterial system. Further, electrical and mechanical connections are robust, while the profile remains within the 0.018" outside diameter of the guide-wire. Basic design for manufacturability issues such as, materials constraints, minimization of parts and working surfaces, providing nesting features, and modular design have been addressed while arriving at the final design. The focus of the current paper is on pressure sensors but the design is generic and should be applicable for the other types of sensors also.