Ultrasound technology is widely available, non-invasive, portable, and, unlike many diagnostic tools such as X-rays and MRIs, does not expose the patient to radiation. NSBRI researchers are finding innovative ways to use this established technology to monitor astronaut health in space and at the same time reduce the cost and extend the availability of high-quality medical care and diagnostics here on Earth.
Ultrasound Telemedicine & Training for Non-Physicians
Dr. Lawrence Crum and Dr. Michael Bailey at the University of Washington have recently developed unique applications of ultrasound to address the need for surgeries that cannot be performed in the reduced gravity environment of space.
Dr. Yi-Xian Qin and his team of researchers have developed a diagnostic and therapeutic system for bone that is delivering powerful results with a very small footprint. The technology, developed to monitor bone health of astronauts in space, is affordable, portable, and easy-to-use.
Qin's Scanning Confocal Acoustic Navigation (SCAN) is unique in its ability to measure both bone quantity (density) and bone quality (which would affect strength). It delivers more accurate results at lower cost than conventional methods and does not expose the patient to x-ray radiation.
In addition to its novel diagnostic capabilities, SCAN technology is being combined successfully with low-intensity pulsed ultrasound to accelerate bone fracture healing. The remarkable, dual-purpose technology is small, lightweight, easy-to-use, and portable, making it a revolutionary development for osteoporosis care in remote, rural, and developing areas.
Improving Emergency Diagnostics
Bloodless Surgery
Move Over, X-Ray
There's no earthly environment less accessible to traditional medical diagnostics and treatments than space. As a result, human space exploration has brought forth a wellspring of advances in telemedicine and remote healthcare: small, power-efficient, non-invasive, and easy-to-use tools that promise better global access to affordable, quality medical care.
NSBRI Industry Forum works with companies of all sizes to bring these technologies to market. We are seeking collaborations that will help us to commercialize these breakthroughs and provide healthcare in resource-constrained environments in space and on Earth.
This will, in turn: •Reduce healthcare and medical insurance costs •Increase healthcare access •Promote job creation
The technologies highlighted here are only a few of the many projects available for investment or partnership. To be a part of our mission, contact NSBRI Industry Forum today.