Optoacoustic Imaging Laser Ultrasound Visualizes Vessels Three-Dimensionally Through the Skin

Related Vendors

Helmholtz Zentrum München - Dt. Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH)

FAULHABER Drive Systems

Wuxi InfiMotion Technology Co., Ltd.

A new imaging technology combines laser pulses with ultrasound detection for high-resolution 3D vascular imaging through the skin. The portable hardware from Helmholtz Munich and TUM could open up a new market for non-invasive diagnostic devices.

Cardiovascular diseases are the most common cause of death worldwide, but their early detection remains one of the greatest challenges of modern medicine. While conventional diagnostic procedures such as ECG or echocardiography can only detect major structural changes or acute events, cardiovascular diseases begin at the microvascular level—in the smallest blood vessels. These early changes have so far remained invisible to non-invasive imaging and require expensive, complex examination procedures. At the same time, there is growing pressure on electronics developers to develop cost-effective, portable diagnostic systems that enable precise early detection outside of specialized clinics. In this area of conflict, a new optoacoustic technology is positioning itself as a potential solution.

Laser Pulses Become Ultrasonic Waves

The core of "Fast-RSOM" (Raster-Scan-Optoacoustic Mesoscopy) is based on an elegant physical principle: short laser pulses heat tissue minimally, causing it to expand and generate ultrasound waves. These are recorded by highly sensitive ultrasound detectors and processed into 3D images. Unlike pure ultrasound or optical procedures, RSOM combines the advantages of both modalities and thus achieves high contrast with deep penetration into individual skin layers and capillaries.

The fast variant optimizes this technology for real-time applications. Dr. Hailong He from the Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging explains: "With fast-RSOM, we have succeeded for the first time in non-invasively recording endothelial function in humans by resolving individual capillaries." This capability opens up completely new possibilities for the early detection of cardiovascular disease, as the technology can detect subtle changes in microvascular endothelial dysfunction (MiVED) long before clinical symptoms appear.

Complex Data Processing

The originally laboratory-based RSOM system had to be completely redesigned for clinical use, which posed considerable technical challenges for electronics developers. The integration of compact, stable laser systems for reproducible pulse generation was just as demanding as the development of high-resolution ultrasound arrays in a portable format. Real-time signal processing for image reconstruction from optoacoustic data and thermal management for reliable laser performance in a compact design proved to be particularly critical.

However, the biggest technical challenge lies in data processing: high-resolution 3D images with single capillary resolution must be calculated in real time from the raw optoacoustic data. The optimized software not only performs image reconstruction, but also calculates dynamic biomarkers for MiVED—quantitative parameters that can detect subtle vascular changes. The result is a portable system that is "fast and non-invasive" and could even be used in outpatient clinics.

Alternative to Stationary Imaging Systems

This opens up a wide range of market potential for electronics developers. The technology could represent an alternative to expensive, stationary imaging systems and open up new fields of application in preventive medicine, therapy monitoring and point-of-care diagnostics. Prof. Vasilis Ntziachristos, Director of the Bioengineering Center at Helmholtz Munich, sees enormous potential: "Through earlier interventions and more precise monitoring, fast-RSOM could fundamentally change the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases."

However, the path from basic research to a market-ready product still faces considerable challenges. The research team is initially planning validation in larger patient studies and the integration of biomarkers into clinical workflows. At the same time, aspects such as medical approval in accordance with the Medical Devices Act, cost optimization for practical suitability and standardization of measurement protocols must be mastered.

The functional principle of RSOM technology uses laser pulses in the nanosecond range that hit tissue and generate ultrasound waves through thermoelastic expansion. These waves carry information about tissue properties such as blood content, oxygen saturation and vascular architecture. The unique selling points include a penetration depth of several inches at microscopic resolution, natural contrast through haemoglobin without contrast agent, real-time imaging and complete safety through non-ionizing, non-invasive procedures.

New Device Category in Medical Technology

Fast-RSOM is an example of how established technologies can open up completely new fields of application through sophisticated combinations. For electronics developers, this opens up an expanding market for portable, high-resolution imaging systems beyond classic ultrasound or X-ray technology. The next few years will show whether optoacoustic systems can establish themselves as a new device category in medical technology and thus usher in a further technological revolution in medical diagnostics. (heh)

Connected Heart Care

Less Atrial Fibrillation Thanks to A Connected Mobile ECG Device