An Audio Lovers Approach to Cancer Detection
http://www.ivanhoe.com/science/story/2011/10/916a.html
Mapping images through sounds is something all kids know of, like echolocation for bats or dolphins. However, until recently it's been too complicated to replicate until now. Despite sounding downright awesome for somebody that loves audio equipment, this field can hold a lot of promise.
At Washington University, a new method of mapping and imaging cancer has been discovered, Photoacoustic Tomography. Though not yet cleared for use, this method of optics could be a breakthrough in both detecting cancerous tumors and creating better, safer surgeries regarding excision of these tumors. One can see not only the tumor using this new technique, but also surrounding blood vessels.
While this is primarily being looked at in the sense of dermatology, this type of imaging could mean very good things for patients suffering from all types of cancers. Instead of being worried about the method of excision, surgeons will be able to pinpoint natural blood vessels and those formed from the tumor's growth. Not to mention, a new type of imaging could mean many things. Depending on the level of penetration, this could be a magnetic-free alternative to MRI's for patients with metal implants (or prison tattoos), and could end up being noninvasive as an ultrasound without having to use potentially complicating radioactive or other forms of contrast agents. I'm excited for this brand new approach to imagining from those of traditional and modern lighting techniques.
Mapping images through sounds is something all kids know of, like echolocation for bats or dolphins. However, until recently it's been too complicated to replicate until now. Despite sounding downright awesome for somebody that loves audio equipment, this field can hold a lot of promise.
At Washington University, a new method of mapping and imaging cancer has been discovered, Photoacoustic Tomography. Though not yet cleared for use, this method of optics could be a breakthrough in both detecting cancerous tumors and creating better, safer surgeries regarding excision of these tumors. One can see not only the tumor using this new technique, but also surrounding blood vessels.
While this is primarily being looked at in the sense of dermatology, this type of imaging could mean very good things for patients suffering from all types of cancers. Instead of being worried about the method of excision, surgeons will be able to pinpoint natural blood vessels and those formed from the tumor's growth. Not to mention, a new type of imaging could mean many things. Depending on the level of penetration, this could be a magnetic-free alternative to MRI's for patients with metal implants (or prison tattoos), and could end up being noninvasive as an ultrasound without having to use potentially complicating radioactive or other forms of contrast agents. I'm excited for this brand new approach to imagining from those of traditional and modern lighting techniques.
posted by Unknown at 6:13 AM
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