Portable diagnostic device for early detection of deep vein thrombosis

19.06.2024

A new EU-funded project called ThrombUS+ aims to detect venous thrombosis at an early stage. Venous thrombosis poses a significant health risk, often occurring without symptoms and potentially leading to life-threatening pulmonary embolisms. The project is developing a portable solution that enables continuous monitoring and immediate detection.

As part of the ThrombUS+ project, 18 European partners are collaborating to develop a portable diagnostic device. This device will use an ultrasound cuff to monitor the blood vessels in the lower limbs and immediately detect thrombosis. The EU is funding the project with 9.5 million euros from the Horizon Europe Innovation Action program.

Image: Illustration of a pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal complication of venous thrombosis.

Illustration of a pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal complication of venous thrombosis. As part of the ThrombUS+ project, 18 European partners are working together to develop a portable diagnostic device to detect venous thrombosis at an early stage.

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Innovative Ultrasound Technology: CMUTs and Their Benefits

The Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems (IPMS) and the company VERMON are developing the ultrasound transducer arrays for the portable component. Notably, the CMUTs (Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducers) are considered the next generation of medical ultrasound sensors. These transducers allow for cost-effective mass production and open up new diagnostic possibilities through their miniaturization and high sensitivity.

Compliance-by-Design: ThrombUS+ as a pioneer for further AI-based medical products

"There are many challenges in developing a portable solution for the diagnosis and prevention of thrombosis," explains Prof. Kaldoudi, project coordinator and scientist at the Athena Research Center in Greece. "We address these challenges not only from a technological perspective. A strength of the consortium lies in the application of a 'Compliance-by-Design' approach, which integrates legal, regulatory, and safety requirements for complex medical products into the development process as early as possible, thus shortening the path of innovation to patients."

The clinical, technical, and regulatory experiences gained within the ThrombUS+ project are expected to create new opportunities for market access for future complex AI-based medical products. The project paves the way for a new era in which portable devices and artificial intelligence enable continuous and autonomous point-of-care services. This significantly relieves medical professionals. The interdisciplinary and international composition of the consortium, comprising 18 European partners, plays a crucial role in its success.

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems (IPMS)