Futures

Revolutionary Ultrasound Method Promises Safer, Less Invasive Surgical Procedures, (from page 20250119.)

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Summary

A collaborative NIH-funded team has developed a groundbreaking ultrasound method that allows for 3D printing of biocompatible structures directly through human tissues, potentially revolutionizing surgical procedures. This technique utilizes focused ultrasound combined with a novel ultrasound-sensitive ink to create structures without incisions, making surgeries less invasive and safer. Initial experiments demonstrated the successful printing of complex shapes through pig tissues and a mock surgery on a goat heart, sealing off an area without open-heart surgery. While promising, this prototype technology requires further optimization before human evaluation. The research highlights the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing medical technology.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
3D Printing Through Skin Innovative method to print implants through skin using focused ultrasound. From traditional invasive surgeries to non-invasive 3D printing methods. Minimally invasive surgeries could become the standard, reducing recovery times and risks. Advancements in ultrasound technology and material science driving safer medical procedures. 5
Focused Ultrasound Technology Utilization of focused ultrasound for medical applications. Transition from conventional surgical methods to ultrasound-based procedures. Healthcare could see a shift towards non-invasive techniques, altering surgical practice standards. Desire for safer, less invasive medical procedures encourages ultrasound research. 4
Collaboration in Medical Research Interdisciplinary partnerships enhancing medical technology development. From isolated research efforts to collaborative, cross-disciplinary innovation. Increased innovation in medical technology through interdisciplinary collaborations. The complexity of modern medical challenges necessitates diverse expertise. 4
Biocompatible Structures Printing Ability to create biocompatible structures inside the body. From reliance on external implants to internal bioprinting solutions. Personalized medicine could expand with tailored implants created inside patients. Increasing emphasis on personalized healthcare solutions and biocompatibility. 4
Reduction of Surgical Risks Potential for new techniques to lower risks associated with surgeries. From high-risk open surgeries to safer, non-invasive techniques. Surgical procedures may become significantly safer, leading to better patient outcomes. The continuous push for improved patient safety and recovery times in medical procedures. 5

Concerns

name description relevancy
Overheating Tissues The high energy levels required for ultrasound printing may lead to overheating of surrounding tissues, potentially causing harm. 4
Prototype Limitations Current technology is still in prototype stage, requiring further optimization before it can be safely utilized in humans. 5
Bioink Safety The long-term effects and safety of using the novel ultrasound-sensitive ink inside the human body need thorough investigation. 5
Regulatory Hurdles Innovative medical procedures often face significant regulatory hurdles before they can be approved for clinical use, which could delay advancements. 4
Interdisciplinary Dependence The success of this technology relies on continued interdisciplinary collaboration, which may be challenging to maintain. 3
Patient Acceptance and Trust Patients may be hesitant to accept new technologies or procedures that deviate from traditional surgical methods. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
3D Bioprinting Through Tissue Utilizing focused ultrasound for 3D printing biocompatible structures inside the body without incisions, revolutionizing surgical procedures. 5
Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques Transforming invasive surgeries into less invasive procedures through innovative technologies like ultrasound-sensitive inks. 5
Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Medical Research Combining expertise from different fields, such as ultrasound imaging and biochemistry, to advance medical technologies. 4
Prototype Development for Medical Applications Creating and optimizing prototype technologies aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in medical procedures. 4
Focus on Safety and Efficiency in Medicine Prioritizing the safety of patients by developing technologies that minimize risks associated with traditional surgical methods. 5

Technologies

description relevancy src
A method to print biocompatible structures through tissues using focused ultrasound and ultrasound-sensitive ink, enabling minimally invasive procedures. 5 bccb19f0e8600750a06777c4ccea673e
Utilizes the temperature increase caused by ultrasound absorption to solidify injected ink for internal medical applications. 4 bccb19f0e8600750a06777c4ccea673e
An established clinical tool that uses ultrasound waves for various treatments, now being explored for internal 3D printing applications. 4 bccb19f0e8600750a06777c4ccea673e
A novel ink made from components that solidify when exposed to ultrasound waves, allowing for in-body printing of structures. 5 bccb19f0e8600750a06777c4ccea673e
An advanced printer design using two ultrasound transducers to enhance resolution and reduce energy needed for printing. 4 bccb19f0e8600750a06777c4ccea673e

Issues

name description relevancy
3D Ultrasound Printing in Medicine The development of ultrasound-based 3D printing techniques for creating biocompatible structures inside the body could revolutionize surgical procedures. 5
Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques The potential for new methods that allow surgeries to be performed without incisions, reducing recovery time and risks associated with traditional surgeries. 5
Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Medical Technology The importance of combining expertise from different fields to innovate in medical technologies, leading to more effective solutions. 4
Safety Concerns in High-Energy Medical Procedures The need to address the potential overheating of tissues during ultrasound printing to enhance patient safety. 4
Biocompatible Materials Development The ongoing research into materials that can be safely used for in-body applications, crucial for the success of new medical technologies. 4
Regulatory Pathways for Novel Medical Technologies The future need for establishing regulatory frameworks to evaluate and approve new minimally invasive procedures derived from this technology. 3