Context- Ultrasound medical imaging, as an important diagnosing method, has an indispensable and considerable impact on our life since its advent in the 1940s. In most diagnostic cases where imaging is required ultrasound is often the first choice because of its low operation cost, non-invasiveness, real-time capability and fast execution. However, ultrasound imaging systems have always been linked to specialized rooms in hospitals, because of their large size, and operated by specific experts, such as radiologists. This makes the use of ultrasound for diagnostic purposes less flexible (incl. reservations and waiting) and costly.
A low cost, handheld and very performing ultrasound probe, which is the main objective of this project, makes medical ultrasound imaging more accessible to all levels of expertise and clinical professions. A more frequent use of ultrasound imaging among clinicians results in saving time for both patients and physicians and helps avoiding radiation in unnecessary CT and X-ray scans. It is remarkable to note that even today, for a first diagnosis in primary care or ‘by the bed-side’ physicians mainly rely on their senses and basic tools such as a thermometer and a stethoscope (since 1816). A handheld ultrasound probe can be used daily by a physician during the practice or on the bed-side to inspect inside of a body with a higher resolution and accuracy compared to the physical examination. This prevents from making mistakes and errors in diagnosis, helps in finding the treatment quicker, and eventually, saves lives. According to the WHO : “Statistics show that strategies to reduce the rate of adverse events in the European Union alone would lead to the prevention of more than 750,000 harm-inflicting medical errors per year, leading in turn to over 3.2 million fewer days of hospitalization, 260,000 fewer incidents of permanent disability, and 95,000 fewer deaths per year.” During the recent pandemic, portable ultrasound probes have been a key tool to diagnose COVID-19 by lung ultrasound imaging. The ability to bring the device to the patient and easily disinfect it, is a great advantage in limiting the spread of the infection.
Technical Objective- The high-level technical objective of LucidWave is to develop a full functioning ultrasound imaging, handheld and wireless prototype, based on pMUT technology.
Business objectives - The project aims to deliver a complete investment offer to future investors and funding channels, which (besides the prototype) includes a substantiated value proposition, business model and complete business plan. LucidWave also aims to complete the entrepreneurial team.
