Continuous Capillary Refill Monitor for Critical Care Microcirculation Assessment (CARESENSE)

The goal of the CaReSense commercialization project is to develop an innovative, cost-effective technology based on capillary reperfusion for continuous microcirculation monitoring in intensive care units (ICUs), particularly for patients with septic shock, while simultaneously promoting technology transfer and commercialization.

Traditional hemodynamic monitoring is unable to detect microcirculatory disorders, leading to suboptimal treatment. Existing CRT methods are manual, subjective, and provide one-off measurements.

The project addresses key challenges including optical path stability, quantification and standardization of reperfusion curves. The prototype comprises a servo-driven fingertip probe, a green light LED, a photodiode, and an infrared thermometer connected to a processor. The device provides 5–6 real-time readings per minute, utilizing algorithms to analyze pathological curves and identify deviations characteristic to sepsis.

To advance the technology from TRL3 to TRL4, the project includes preclinical validation on healthy volunteers and ITN patients, development of investigation protocols, and a commercialization strategy encompassing market analysis, IP protection, and stakeholder engagement. Expected benefits include improved diagnostics, reduced healthcare costs, and better patient outcomes.

The project will be implemented by a multidisciplinary team from the University of Latvia and Rīga East Clinical University Hospital.

Develop a technology demonstrator – prototype (TRL4) suitable for tissue recapillarization tests in intensive care patients.

Develop a protocol and methodology for continuous recapillary measurements of skin microcirculation.

Determine the commercialization potential of the technology and develop a strategy and identify next steps for its commercialization.

Research sustainability practices.