Computer engineers from Washington University in St. Louis (WUSTL) have developed an ultrasound system that combines a smartphone with USB-based ultrasound probe technology.
The ultrasound probes are compatible with Microsoft Windows Mobile-based smartphones, and can be used for imaging the kidney, liver, bladder, and eyes, according to the institution. Endocavity probes can be used for prostate and uterine screenings and biopsies, while vascular probes could be utilized for imaging veins and arteries for starting IVs and central lines, WUSTL said.
The development effort was funded by a $100,000 grant from Microsoft in 2008. Developers William Richard, Ph.D., and David Zar presented the technology at the recent 2009 World Health Care Congress in Washington, DC.
The researchers believe the technology could have a particular impact in patients with Duchene's muscular dystrophy. In addition, Richard and Zar have discussed a potential collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston about integrating the concept into a suite of field trials for medical applications in developing countries, WUSTL said. Military applications are also possible.
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