Researchers in the US have designed a wearable ultrasound monitor that can image organs within the body without the need for an
For the study, the researchers recruited 20 patients with a range of BMIs.
Participants were first imaged with a full bladder, then with a partially empty bladder, and then with a completely empty bladder.
The images obtained from the new patch were similar in quality to those taken with traditional ultrasound, and the ultrasound arrays worked on all subjects regardless of their BMI.
With this patch, no ultrasound gel is needed, and no pressure needs to be applied, as with a regular ultrasound probe, because the field of view is large enough to encompass the entire bladder.
To see the images, the researchers connected their ultrasound arrays to the same kind of ultrasound machine used in medical imaging centres.
However, the MIT researchers are now working on a portable device, about the size of a smartphone, that could be used to view the images.
Anthony E. Samir is director of the MGH Center for Ultrasound Research and Translation and Associate Chair of Imaging Sciences at MGH Radiology.
The researcher said: “In this work, we have further developed a path toward clinical translation of conformable ultrasonic biosensors that yield valuable information about vital physiologic parameters.
“Our group hopes to build on this and develop a suite of devices that will ultimately bridge the information gap between clinicians and patients.”
Image: MIT
