Clinical Report: Smart Lens for Non-Invasive Ocular Oxygen Monitoring

Overview

A novel smart contact lens developed by Tianjin University enables non-invasive monitoring of ocular blood oxygen saturation. The device utilizes a plasmonic nano-confinement nanowire photodetector to adapt pulse oximetry principles for the ocular region, achieving high accuracy in initial tests.

Background

Oxygen saturation measurement at the eye is not routine. Current methods for ocular oxygen measurement are cumbersome and not suitable for continuous monitoring. The development of a smart contact lens could facilitate monitoring of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and retinal vascular occlusion.

Data Highlights

The smart lens achieved approximately 99% average agreement with a commercial finger-clip oximeter across the tested SpO range. The PNC nanowire architecture improved test accuracy by 35% compared to sensors without the nanowire structure.

Key Findings

• The smart lens integrates a flexible plasmonic nano-confinement nanowire photodetector for oxygen saturation monitoring.
• It maintains over 90% transmittance across a spectral range of 300–900 nm.
• The device retained more than 96% of its photocurrent after 1,000 bending cycles.
• Initial testing showed close correlation with peripheral oximeter readings under varying oxygen conditions.
• No significant irritation or tissue damage was observed in anesthetized rabbits during testing.

Clinical Implications

Future clinical validation and improvements in device stability and integration are necessary for broader application.

Conclusion

Further investigation is warranted based on the initial results of the smart lens.

Related Resources & Content

1. Eyecare Business, Eyecare Business, 2024 -- #EBNewProducts: Retail Tech
2. Contact Lens Spectrum, Contact Lens Spectrum, 2007 -- Product Spectrum
3. Eyecare Business, Eyecare Business, 2017 -- BUYER’S GUIDE
4. American Academy of Ophthalmology, Ophthalmology -- Diabetic Retinopathy Preferred Practice Pattern®
5. PMC, Association of Retinal Oximetry with Peripheral Diabetic Retinopathy Lesions and Nonperfusion on Ultra-widefield Angiography
6. eyecare business — #EBNewProducts: Retail Tech
7. Diabetic Retinopathy Preferred Practice Pattern® - Ophthalmology
8. Association of Retinal Oximetry with Peripheral Diabetic Retinopathy Lesions and Nonperfusion on Ultra-widefield Angiography - PMC
9. Kirigami-Inspired Breathable Smart Contact Lens for Wireless Monitoring of Corneal Hypoxia and Microenvironment - PubMed