Remote Ultrasound Platform Offers Diagnostic Scans from Anywhere

By MedImaging International staff writers
Posted on 29 Feb 2024

Image: Remote ultrasound technology promises to revolutionize diagnostic imaging (Photo courtesy of Sonus Microsystems)

Ultrasound technology plays a significant role in the medical sector, accounting for a third of the market in medical therapeutic, surgical, and diagnostic equipment. However, the development of ultrasound transducers has been relatively stagnant, still heavily reliant on piezoelectric technology. This stagnation has created a critical need for more versatile, high-performance, and cost-effective ultrasound solutions, especially considering the reliance on sonographers' expertise. Now, a next-generation ultrasound technology capable of delivering remote diagnostic imaging without the need to go to a clinic or hospital is set to revolutionize ultrasound diagnostics.

Sonus Microsystems (Vancouver, BC, Canada) is pioneering a novel and proprietary ultrasound technology using polymer MEMS sensors for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves. Their transducers leverage polyCMUT technology, which stands for polymer-based Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasound Transducers. This advanced manufacturing process creates thousands of micro-vibrating drums on various substrates, significantly enhancing performance in imaging and testing applications. The polyCMUT technology marks a significant advancement in the ultrasound field, promising improved imaging capabilities and setting a new standard in diagnostic and material testing.

Sonus focuses on creating ultrasound transducers for three primary applications: disposable and miniature transducers for high-quality imaging in confined spaces; flexible and economical wearable transducers suitable for various healthcare monitoring and screening; and large matrix array transducers designed for operator-independent ultrasound imaging, facilitating remote monitoring and screening. The company's innovative matrix technology is leading the way in developing AI-powered patches that automate ultrasound scanning and measurements, offering cost-effective patient monitoring and screening solutions. Sonus has recently formed multiple partnerships in the medical field, aiming to transform the idea of remote diagnostic imaging and monitoring into reality.

“We are uniquely positioned with over 100 years of ultrasound domain expertise to deliver our cutting-edge customizable ultrasound transducers which enable automated imaging for remote monitoring and wearable ultrasound applications powered by AI diagnosis,” said Dr. Hani Eskandari, CEO and President at Sonus Microsystems.

"Our transducers have demonstrated superb performance for medical diagnostic applications requiring a high degree of design flexibility," added Dr. Carlos D. Gerardo, Co-Founder and Director of R&D. "By utilizing polymers, we can manufacture polyCMUTs with fewer fabrication steps and minimal equipment, leading to substantial cost savings, swift iteration cycles, and unique capabilities."