Browse Technologies

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Vanderbilt researchers have invented a modular microfluidic bioreactor that can be layered and stacked to create complex organ-on-chip systems that mimic the behavior of human organ systems such as the neurovascular unit. This modular device can also be assembled from separate, functioning biolayers, and at the end of a study disassembled for examination of individual cellular components.

A new approach for obtaining less invasive optical measurements of the cervix has been developed that does not require the use of a speculum exam. This technology can visualize the cervix in vivo to find unique biomarkers that indicate various conditions such as preterm labor, cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV), and dysplasia.

Vanderbilt scientists have developed an automated inflatable abdominal binder that can detect when a patient moves from a prone or sitting positon to a standing position and automatically apply a sustained servo-controlled compression pressure in order to counter the effects of OH. The binder is as effective as conventional drug therapy in controlling OH, without subjecting patients to potentially harmful side effects and interactions with other medications.

Vanderbilt researchers have developed a new system to detect the position, orientation, and pressure exerted on surrounding tissues of a wireless capsule endoscopy device.  Magnetic coupling is one of the few physical phenomena capable of transmitting actuation forces across a physical barrier.  Magnetic manipulation has the potential to make surgery less invasive, by allowing untethered miniature devices to enter the body through natural orifices or tiny incisions, and then maneuver with minimal disruption to healthy tissue.  In order to accomplish this goal, the pose (position and orientation) of the medical device must be available in real time.