Medical Imaging

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Vanderbilt students have created a stabilization system for secure and stable MRI positioning of hands, wrists, knees, shoulders, and the lower back, using affordable, easy to use, and readily available materials. The system effectively reduces image blurring using a non-irritating film and a supportive frame. This device can simultaneously improve MRI diagnosis, enhance the patient experience, and minimize the time and financial burdens of image retakes.

Researchers at Vanderbilt have developed a new image-guided, trackerless surgical microscope system to be used in soft tissue surgeries. The current method is to use a surgical microscope along with an image-guided system. This new design eliminates the need for a separate image-guidance system; the entire guidance environment can be realized within the microscope environment.

A Vanderbilt researcher has developed an elastography framework for determining elastic properties of tissue using existing imaging technologies. Elastography is the direct imaging of tissue elasticity parameters, and can be quite helpful for diagnostic and/or therapeutic purposes.

Gastric cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. While screening programs have had a tremendous impact on reducing mortality, the majority of cases occur in low and middle-income countries (LMIC). Typically, screening for gastric and esophageal cancer is performed using a flexible endoscope; however, endoscopy resources for these settings are traditionally limited. With the development of an inexpensive, disposable system by Vanderbilt researchers, gastroscopy and colonoscopy can be facilitated in areas hampered by a lack of access to the appropriate means.