iCoagLab Platform

Project Description

The iCoagLab Platform is based on patented technology developed by scientists at the Massachusetts General Hospital. iCoagLab uses an optical sensor that detects intensity fluctuations of laser scattering patterns to measure blood clot stiffness over time. Acute bleeding or hemorrhage is a major cause of preventable death in hospitalized patients. Conventional laboratory tests can be costly, cumbersome and take too long. Delays in detecting and managing impaired coagulation are associated with poor outcomes. Coalesenz seeks to solve this problem by providing rapid viscoelastic coagulation profiling at the point of care. Currently, a device is in development with a greatly reduced form factor and instrument cost, with a disposable cartridge that uses a very small blood volume and provides rapid results in about 10 minutes.

To improve the clinician/device interaction, a beta device prototype is under development. Feedback from clinicians/end users are being compiled to ensure that a smooth and efficient user workflow is produced.

This project involves implementing some of the design changes identified during these clinician interactions.

The cartridge heating element and thermal interface need specific optimization to minimize the cartridge heating time needed to conduct a test. This project will involve experimental test plan creation, prototype design and fabrication, data collection/analysis, and thorough documentation. Heater geometries and materials, cartridge interfacial design and materials, and software controls will all be investigated during this project.

This project will also include other miscellaneous design and prototyping tasks, such as fixture design, and potentially product design improvements for other aspects of the coagulation monitoring device.

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