Technologies

Throughout the years, the ranslational Medical Device Lab has developed expertise in biosensing and multiple diagnostic imaging and therapeutic intervention technologies, focusing on computational modeling, prototyping, and optimising device design, as well as conducting rigorous design validation and verification studies. Some of these technologies are listed below.

Biosensing

Integration of sensors into existing medical devices, along with the development of biosensors-based novel medical devices is revolutionising connected health.  This emerging area enables continuous, real-time measurements of vital parameters within (Wireless Implantable Sensors) and outside the body (Wearable Sensors). The sensor integration with digital health platforms facilitates remote monitoring, reducing hospital visits and patient outcomes.

The research in the area of biosensors at the Translational Medical Device Lab is centred around the integration of sensors in medical devices for feedback and treatment monitoring, the design of miniaturised sensors that can be delivered through minimally invasive procedures, the design of wireless readout systems and their cloud connectivity, and efficient power transfer and communication between the external readout systems and the sensors.

Electrical Impedance Tomography

Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) is a non-invasive imaging technique used to visualise the internal structures of the body. It works by applying a low-intensity electric current through electrodes placed on the skin. The currents flow through the object and interact with its internal structure inducing voltage differences, which are measured and processed using sophisticated algorithms to reconstruct an image of the internal conductivity/impedance distribution. These images allow monitoring of changes in conductivity corresponding to physiological changes in the target tissue/organ.

The EIT research at the Translational Medical Device Lab has been focused on the development of EIT image reconstruction algorithms and the investigation of novel applications for EIT such as bladder monitoring, stroke classification and real-time treatment monitoring etc.

Medical Microwave Imaging

Medical Microwave Imaging (MMI) is a non-invasive diagnostic technique used to visualise and analyse the internal organs of the human body. The technology uses microwave energy to penetrate into tissues and provides high quality images of organs and lesions without exposing patients to harmful radiation or ionising radiation. The technology.

The operating principle of MMI involves the transmission of microwave signals through the body, which are then received and processed by a specialised imaging system. The MMI system uses advanced imaging algorithms to reconstruct detailed images of the target structures based on the transmitted and reflected signals. The resultant images can provide localisation of malignant tissues such as tumours (Confocal Microwave Imaging) or information about tissue composition (Microwave Tomography) allowing clinicians to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions.

MMI research at the Translational Medical Device Lab has focused on the development of advanced signal processing methods to improve imaging algorithms and the development of phantoms and prototypes for the validation of imaging algorithms. We have also collaborated in first-in-human clinical trials of commercial microwave imaging systems developed in industry. The target applications for MMI research at our lab include the early detection of breast cancer and detection/monitoring of bone diseases.

Microwave Ablation

Microwave Ablation (MWA) is a minimally invasive thermal therapy used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. It utilizes microwave energy to generate heat and destroy targeted tissues, offering a precise and effective alternative to traditional surgical procedures.

This technology operates by emitting microwave energy through a specialized applicator, which creates heat that raises the temperature of the surrounding tissues. As the targeted area reaches a critical temperature, the cells are destroyed without the need for incisions or extensive tissue damage. Microwave Ablation has demonstrated its capabilities in various medical applications. The MWA research at the Translational Medical Device lab has focused on the treatment of liver tumours, lung tumours and adrenal tumours/adenomans. 

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat a range of medical conditions. By utilising localized heat generated from high-frequency alternating electrical currents, RFA allows precise destruction of targeted tissues, without the need for surgical incisions.

This technology is revolutionising medical interventions across various fields, particularly in the treatment of solid tumors and benign lesions. By precisely heating and destroying abnormal tissues, RFA offers a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods, reducing patient discomfort and promoting quicker recovery. While RFA has extensive applicaitons in various clinical areas, our lab has worked on cardiac ablation for the treatment of arrhythmias, liver tumour ablation, and use of RFA for the treatment of Varicose veins.  

Pulsed Field Ablation

Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) is an innovative and emerging technology used in various medical applications. It utilizes high-intensity electrical fields, delivered in short pulses, to treat targeted tissues without the need for extreme heat or cold.

This groundbreaking approach offers several advantages over traditional ablation techniques. By utilizing electric fields, PFA can selectively damage cellular structures, causing irreversible cell death and tissue ablation. Unlike thermal ablation methods, PFA minimizes collateral damage to surrounding healthy tissues, making it a potentially safer option for certain procedures.

We have invstigated several PFA applications including the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias using both endocardial and epicardial approaches.