Opening new avenues for stroke care
New technologies and applications are continuously being developed to aid doctors and patients cope with stroke and the complications that follow. The EC-funded UMEDS project sought to develop non-invasive technique that would allow for non-invasive monitoring of stroke victims. These technologies could also be used for the early diagnosis of the brain perfusion event. Within the UMEDS framework new imaging hardware were designed and developed. The new units comprised some unique features such as real-time 3D imaging based on matrix transducers and voice control. Real-time imaging of brain perfusion in stroke patients with non-invasive methods remains a key innovative aspect in this development. The clinical impact of these new sensors could be significant and prototypes are already available for further testing and evaluation. The use of ultrasound technology in stroke patients has long been heralded as a revolutionary approach. It is therefore likely that further developments in this area could revolutionise stroke care at all levels.
