Non-Invasive Biomedical Pressure Measurement Using Ultrasound-Induced Acousto-Optic Modulation

This invention is a novel method for measuring pressure inside the body without invasive procedures that combines ultrasound and laser technologies through the acousto-optic effect. By combining ultrasound and laser technologies, it offers a safe and accurate way to assess pressure levels in biological environments. An ultrasound wave is directed at the target area, such as the eye or brain tissue, which creates variable vibrations in the tissue depending on the internal pressure. At the same time, a laser beam is aimed at the vibrating tissue. When the ultrasound wave and laser light interact, they produce changes in the diffraction pattern of the laser light. These changes are linked to variations in the speed of sound, which correspond to changes in pressure. By analyzing the angle and intensity of the diffracted laser light, precise measurements of pressure at different depths and locations within the tissue can be obtained.  This method is advantageous as it is non-invasive, eliminating the need for uncomfortable procedures such as measuring intraocular or intracranial pressure. With its potential applications in ophthalmology, neurology, and cardiology, this technology could significantly enhance patient care and medical diagnostics.

Background: 
Accurate pressure measurement is crucial in medical diagnostics, yet current methods often involve invasive procedures or rely on indirect measurements, leading to discomfort and potential risks for patients. Methods like tonometry in ophthalmology and lumbar punctures in neurology require invasive contact and have associated risks. Existing non-invasive methods, like cuff-based sphygmomanometers in cardiology, lack continuous or internal pressure measurements within vessels.  This technology offers a non-invasive approach to measuring pressure in biological environments, such as the eye or brain tissue. By using the acousto-optic effect, it can precisely assess pressure at various depths and locations within the tissue. This innovation eliminates the discomfort and risks associated with current methods, providing safer, more accurate, and patient-friendly pressure measurements across different medical applications. Furthermore, the comfort and non-invasiveness of this technology would likely improve patient willingness to undergo these measurements, facilitating better disease management and monitoring.

Applications: 

  • Ophthalmology 
  • Neurology
  • Cardiology
  • Vascular medicine
  • Intensive care


Advantages: 

  • Non-invasive
  • Improved precision
  • High degree of versatility
  • Improved patient comfort
Patent Information: