Tide Microfluidics develops proprietary microfluidic technology for improved diagnostic capability of contrast enhanced ultrasound imaging. We have an advanced microfluidic manufacturing technique for producing ultrasound contrast agents (UCA) of controlled size to enable 20 times clearer images. Our uniform UCAs are unique, as current UCAs are composed of wide size distribution microbubbles, making them less effective. We aim to develop our technology into a bedside UCA production device, which would lead to a reduction in diagnostic imaging costs, as ultrasound is cheaper than MRI or CT, and gives better images for faster and more accurate diagnoses. During MAManUCA, our SME-Instrument phase 1 we have assessed the commercially and technically feasibility of our bedside UCA production device concept. Our aim was to understand the users requirements and how best to fit into their workflow, as well as how to create a robust, reliable and user-friendly design. Economic viability was studied, as pricing must be cost effective or market uptake will not occur. Finally, we have investigated the clinical validation needs and level of medical certification required for our bedside production device to be accepted in Europe, the USA and the rest of the world. This knowledge on feasibility, cost pricing and validation defined in Phase 1 will work as a roadmap for our development during a Phase 2 project. Thus, exploitation of SME-Instrument Phases 1 and 2 would secure the continuous development and validation of our device allowing for a rapid market entry, bringing a valuable tool to the end users and reducing healthcare costs. We aim to enter the ultrasound imaging market with our bedside UCA production device. Currently, more than 3 million ultrasound procedures using UCA‘s are carried out each year worldwide, with the European market alone worth $46 million. Ultimately, our vision is to become the world’s foremost supplier of UCA production devices delivering high definition contrast agents, enabling clearer diagnostic images for more effective patient care.
