New 3-D ultrasound technology developed by bioengineers in North Carolina is set to improve the treatment of stroke patients.
Researchers at Duke University used advanced 3-D ultrasound to examine the brain’s arteries in real-time through the skull.
Senior author of the study, biomedical engineering professor Stephen Smith commented: "This is an important step forward for scanning the vessels of the brain through the skull, and we believe that there are now no major technological barriers to ultimately using 3-D ultrasound to quickly diagnose stroke patients."
According to professor Smith, the technology is predicted to be miniaturized within the next five to ten years for use on stroke patients in ambulances within three hours of the initial manifestation of symptoms.
While 3-D ultrasound is not expected to displace MRI or CT scans, the new advances in technology would offer physicians increased flexibility when treating stroke patients.
The National Stroke Association states that stroke is the third leading cause of death in America and the number one cause of adult disability.
