Summary:
Researchers at MIT have developed a wearable ultrasound scanner in the form of a flexible patch that attaches to a bra using magnets. The patch contains miniaturized ultrasound scanners that can image the wearer’s breast tissue from multiple angles. The main objective of this device is to improve the early detection of breast cancer, especially for patients at high risk.
The ultrasound technology in the patch has been redesigned to be portable and user-friendly, allowing real-time monitoring of breast tissue from the comfort of one’s home. The device’s image resolution is comparable to medical imaging center probes, capable of imaging tissue up to 8 cm deep.
The researchers are currently using a reusable system that connects to an ultrasound machine. However, they are working on a smartphone-sized version for at-home use. This advancement is especially promising as it eliminates the need for women to travel to imaging centers, making regular screenings more accessible and convenient.
The device has been tested on a single patient, and it successfully detected breast cysts as small as 0.3 cm, equivalent to early-stage tumors. The researchers also plan to incorporate artificial intelligence to analyze changes in breast tissue over time for more accurate tumor diagnoses. Additionally, they have future plans to adapt the wearable ultrasound technology for other parts of the body.
Article written by Jim Hammerand
31/08/2023
Source:
Medical Design & Outsourcing
https://www.medicaldesignandoutsourcing.com/mit-wearable-ultrasound-scanner-device-breast-cancer/