Autonomous ultrasound: relieving the burden of everyday medical care

These systems can examine patients independently and create 3D images of the vascular system. "We want to create a robotic system with artificial intelligence that knows the physics of ultrasound, analyses human physiology and anatomy and helps doctors decide what to do," says Prof. Navab, describing his vision.

The system developed can examine patients without the presence of a doctor. The ultrasound probe is attached to a robotic arm that examines the patient's abdomen or forearm. The system independently creates 3D images of vessels and visualizes physiological parameters such as blood flow velocity. This allows doctors to concentrate more on caring for and advising their patients.

During operations on the spine, the researchers use the concept of "shared control". This allows the surgeon to use the ultrasound as usual and be supported by the autonomous system at the same time. For example, the system can provide images of the respective region during an injection into a vertebral joint without interfering with the operation. These images are analyzed using machine learning to detect anomalies, such as fractures of the vertebral bodies.

Autonomous robotic ultrasound systems offer numerous advantages:

• 3D images: Examination results are available in 3D, which facilitates diagnostics and makes connections visible that are difficult to recognize in 2D.
• Comparability of data: The system stores examination results, allowing comparisons to be made over years. It detects changes in vessels and other structures.
• Access to health examinations: Autonomous systems can be used in medical centers or pharmacies, even without medical professionals. This is particularly useful in remote areas.

Prof. Navab is convinced that people will quickly accept this technology: People are already measuring their pulse, body temperature and blood pressure with their smartwatch or other digital applications," he explains "They will certainly also have ultrasound examinations carried out on themselves with the help of robotic systems."

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Technical University of Munich