Shape Memory Polymer‐Based Flexible Pressure Sensor for Real‐Time Venous Thrombosis Monitoring

ABSTRACT Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are widely applied for long‐term intravenous therapy but significantly increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which often develops without obvious early symptoms. Current diagnostic methods are often intermittent, complex, and prone to delayed detection. In this study, a highly sensitive tubular flexible pressure sensor is proposed for real‐time monitoring of venous thrombosis after catheter insertion. Nanofibrous membranes with a 100‐mesh microstructure are prepared using shape‐memory polylactic acid (SMP‐PLA) and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). By optimizing the conductive filler ratio, the sensor's conductivity, response time, and sensitivity are effectively tuned. The sensor achieves a high sensitivity of 204 kPa −1 , a response time of 28 ms, and a detection limit of 150 Pa, attributed to the enhanced microstructured surface of the nanofibrous membrane. Due to its high shape fixation (97.5%) and recovery rate (96.3%), the sensor can conformally attach to the catheter surface through its intrinsic shape‐memory effect, supporting real‐time monitoring of pressure changes associated with venous thrombosis. The proposed approach provides a promising strategy for real‐time monitoring of pressure changes associated with PICC‐related thrombosis and offers potential for early warning and post‐catheterization monitoring.