by In a breakthrough development, researchers have introduced a cutting-edge photoacoustic imaging watch that enables high-resolution imaging of blood vessels in the skin, allowing for real-time monitoring of hemodynamic indicators like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. These indicators provide crucial insights into an individual’s cardiovascular health.
The research team, led by Lei Xi from the Southern University of Science and Technology in China, successfully overcame the challenges of miniaturizing and optimizing the imaging interface to create the first photoacoustic wearable device designed for healthcare applications. The device comprises a watch with an imaging interface, a handheld computer, and a backpack housing the laser and power supply components.
Tests conducted with volunteers demonstrated the device’s capability to observe blood flow variations during different activities, such as walking, while ensuring freedom of movement. The compact and portable nature of the wearable imaging system opens up possibilities for its utilization in community health centers for preliminary disease diagnosis or long-term monitoring within hospital settings.
Xi highlighted the potential applications of this technology in early disease detection, skin condition analysis, and burn assessment, illustrating its versatility and significance in healthcare. The system’s design incorporates a compact optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy system featuring a pulsed laser, fiber-based light path, and integrated electronic system for seamless operation.
With a strong focus on user convenience and functionality, the researchers developed a miniaturized watch-type imaging interface with adjustable focal plane and real-time image display capabilities. The system’s innovative features include a lateral resolution of 8.7 µm, enabling the resolution of microvessels in the skin, and a maximum field of view of approximately 3 mm in diameter for capturing intricate microvascular details.
Future enhancements aim to make the system even more compact and lightweight by incorporating a smaller laser source with increased repetition rate, enhancing safety and temporal resolution. The team also plans to ensure the stability of the optical path under rigorous conditions like running and jumping, as well as incorporate multispectral illumination for acquiring additional physiological parameters.
Overall, the photoacoustic imaging watch represents a significant advancement in wearable technology, offering a non-invasive and efficient method for monitoring hemodynamics and providing valuable insights for disease diagnosis and treatment. As the researchers continue to optimize and refine the system, the potential for early detection and management of various health conditions becomes increasingly promising.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research.
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it.
