Biosensor for the Detection of Blood Clots

Deep vein thromboses (DVTs) often go undetected and have the potential to dislodge and cause embolisms or strokes, which can be debilitating or fatal. Detection of a blood clot currently requires intervention from a skilled hospital care team with advanced ultrasound imaging equipment. The development of additional biosensor technology could prevent those at risk of embolisms from developing serious blockages through early detection and notification that urgent medical care is needed.

The formation of blood clots creates a semisolid mass denser than the surrounding blood. This higher density may allow for the detection of a greater magnetic effect using Hall effect or inductive loop sensors due to the corresponding higher density of iron compared to liquid blood. These two sensors sensors, in addition to a rudimentary ultrasound sensor, were tested on a model of the circulatory system representing part of the femoral vein.

The controlled experiments conducted did not find that blood clots could be detected by sensors targeting their magnetic properties. More research is required to determine if a rudimentary, stationary ultrasound sensor could effectively detect an embolism.

The group would like to thank their faculty sponsor Dr. Gary Bledsoe for their support with this project.

Oliver Grassmann

Oliver is graduating from Saint Louis University with a B.S. in Computer Engineering this May. Originally from Milwaukee, WI, Oliver will be moving to Florida where he will work as a Software Engineer for Northrop Grumman and where he plans to continue his education.

Amanda Baker

Amanda grew up in Loomis, CA graduating from Del Oro High School in 2016. In the Fall of 2016, Amanda came to Saint Louis University to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering and compete for SLU's Track and Field team in the Pentathlon/Heptathlon. Post-graduation Amanda will be working for Honeywell Federal Manufacturing and Technologies as a Quality Engineer. Outside of competing in track and field Amanda enjoys traveling, being outdoors, and scuba diving.

Zainab Alramedhan

Zainab Alramadhan is a senior international student that came from Qatif, Saudi Arabia on 2015 to purse her higher education to study Biomedical Engineering. Her plans post-graduate is to continue her education and gain experience from working in the US to gain knowledge to take back with her to improve her home country. She has an interest in researching solutions for medical problems, especially in the field of applied biomedical engineering. She also enjoy community service, traveling and exploring new places and cultures.

Martin Hana

Born in Evenston IL, Martin is majoring in an undergrad in Biomedical Medical Engineering. Martin is interested in outdoors activates, computers, and digital art. Martin plans on to work in the medical industries in post-graduation.