As we count down to HydroConference 2025, we’re honoured to highlight one of our visionary speakers: Dr. Simon Malpas, CEO of Kitea Health – a driving force behind breakthrough sensor technology reshaping hydrocephalus care.
Dr. Malpas brings incredible depth in research and entrepreneurship: over 135 peer-reviewed publications, 10 patents, and $25M+ in research grants. He has played a central role in advancing Kitea Health’s implantable brain pressure sensor, designed to detect intracranial pressure changes wirelessly and enable remote monitoring via smartphone.
Kitea’s pioneering sensor, roughly the size of a few grains of rice, is the world’s smallest brain implant and the first implantable medical device developed in New Zealand. RNZ reported on its success, highlighting its potential to transform how we manage hydrocephalus and similar conditions.
In January 2025, Kitea Health commenced the first human clinical trials in Auckland. Dr. Malpas noted it’s the world’s first fully untethered brain microcomputer implant. In June 2025, Kitea Health was honoured with the Most Innovative Deep Tech Solution award at the NZ Hi‑Tech Awards. Kitea was also recently accepted into two FDA fast-track programmes, fast-tracking development and approval for U.S. market access.
At HydroConference 2025, Dr. Malpas will give attendees a rare peek into how smart pressure sensors are helping detect changes before symptoms appear, preventing unnecessary surgeries and improving quality of life. More here via University of Auckland. He’ll also share how a project born at the University of Auckland evolved into a globally recognised medical startup. Read about it at NZGCP.
At the 2024 HA CONNECT Conference, Kitea’s team sought direct feedback from the hydrocephalus community to refine the device’s usability. Dr. Malpas’s approach is not just technical – it’s deeply human.
His session promises to be more than technical – it’s about transforming lives. He’ll discuss empowering patients to self-monitor brain pressure changes, reducing unnecessary scans and emergency visits, and building smarter, more supportive systems of care. Read more about Kitea Health’s mission and progress, including their growing global partnerships and clinical milestones.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to learn from a global pioneer in proactive hydrocephalus care. Dr. Malpas will present at HydroConference 2025, 8–9 November, at Mantra Hotel Tullamarine, Melbourne.
Secure your Earlybird Ticket now – and be part of the future of hydrocephalus care.