Microscale Sensor Fabrication on Curved Needle Surfaces

Abstract

Sensor-integrated needles with impedance or other electrochemical sensors have gained increased attention in research. Their potential use is widespread and covers applications such as early disease diagnostics or needle guidance for needle-based interventions. However, fabrication and sensor integration are crucial parts of realizing functionalized needles. In this paper, a review of existing research on microscale sensor arrays on curved needle surfaces is presented. It focusses on medical needles excluding needle-type sensors. Especially, means of fabrications including flexible thin-film-based sensors or photolithography are discussed. Although they provide satisfactory results, no manufacturing method is yet ready for bulk production.

Keywords

• biomedical sensors
• electrochemical sensors
• microscale sensors
• flexible sensors
• lab-on-a-needle