A groundbreaking brain implant, the first of its kind globally, is giving hydrocephalus patients greater control over their symptoms while reducing anxiety, researchers say.
Developed by the Auckland Bioengineering Institute and Kitea Health, the tiny implant measures brain pressure and connects to an external wireless wand for at-home monitoring. At just 2×3 millimeters and weighing 0.3 grams, it is the smallest brain implant ever created and the first implantable medical device made in New Zealand.
Clinical trials are 50% complete for adults, with pediatric trials underway.
Jessica Grainger, a student nurse diagnosed with hydrocephalus in 2023, joined the trial after her shunt failed in late 2024. “It’s eased a lot of anxiety,” she said. “I can check my readings, and it’s normal. It’s promoting my self-management.”
Kitea Health co-founder Simon Malpas highlighted the implant’s significance. “It’s the first time, globally, that someone can measure their own brain pressure at home,” he said.
The technology aims to reduce false alarms that lead to unnecessary hospital visits. “Two-thirds of the time, it’s a false alarm,” Malpas said. “We can’t fix the shunt, but we can give confidence and data.”
Researchers hope the implant will alleviate healthcare costs while improving patient outcomes.