MECHANICAL IMAGING DEVICE FOR PROSTATE CANCER DETECTION

该项目致力于开发一种便携式，轻便，易于使用和低成本的设备，用于实时成像前列腺和检测硬结节，其灵敏度超过有经验的检查者的手指。该设备基于一种称为机械成像（MI）的新技术。迄今为止，已经建造了几个概念验证原型设备。MI技术在前列腺成像和检测硬结节中的可行性通过Robert Wood约翰逊医学院（新玩法，NJ）的实验室实验和临床试验得到了证明。该设备使用一组压力传感器和一个位置传感器，安装在一个经直肠长袍的尖端，连接到一台计算机，计算机执行数据处理并显示前列腺的图像。第一阶段的原型构建将在密歇根大学医学院（安阿伯，MI）进行进一步测试。在第二阶段，该原型将发展成为一个功能齐全的紧凑型仪器，用于成像前列腺和前列腺癌检测，具有诊断潜力。拟议的商业应用：机械成像方法和装置可用于评估前列腺状况，监测前列腺疾病的治疗，并与PSA分析相结合，用于前列腺癌的大规模筛查。这项技术的便利性、可负担性和非侵入性将为开发新市场提供基础，该产品应成为任何普通医疗机构的必要项目，并可由全科医生使用。

This project addresses the development of a portable, lightweight, easy to use, and low cost device for real-time imaging the prostate and detecting hard nodules with sensitivity exceeding that of a finger of an experienced examiner. The device is based on a new technology termed Mechanical Imaging (MI). To date, several of the proof-of-concept prototype devices have been constructed. The feasibility of MI technology in imaging the prostate and detecting hard nodules was proven by laboratory experiments and clinical trials in the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ. The device uses an array of pressure sensors and a position sensor mounted on the tip of a transrectal robe connected to a computer that carries out the data processing and displays images of the prostate. The prototype build in Phase I will be further tested in the University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI. In Phase II, this prototype will develop into a fully functional and compact instrument for imaging the prostate and prostate cancer detection with illustrated diagnostic potential. PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS: The Mechanical Imaging method and device can be used for evaluating prostate conditions, monitoring the treatment of prostate diseases, and in combination with PSA analysis, for mass screening for prostate cancer. The convenience, affordability, and non-invasive nature of this technology will provide the basis for the development of new markets for a product that should be a necessary item in any general healthcare institution and can be used by general practitioners.