C12383: Tumor Detection Using Radar-based Medical ImagingNovelty:
A novel tumor-detection technique using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) radar.
Value Proposition:
UWB is a new technology used in military and commercial remote sensing applications for through-the-wall imaging, identifying hidden features obstructed by walls, concrete, or ground surfaces. This invention transfers and modifies existing UWB technology to provide lower-cost, more effective, and safer radiation oncology imaging. It is particularly valuable to real-time lung tumor imaging and position detection, as existing modes of imaging, such as ultrasound, cannot penetrate through lung tissue. Because UWB radar is a non-ionizing imaging technique, it is compatible with radiotherapy machines, while still providing imaging capabilities comparable to MRI or CT technologies. Additional advantages of this novel imaging technology over existing radiation oncology imaging technologies include:
• Non-ionizing and non-invasive: Provides safe long-term and frequent imaging option for cancer patients
• Non-contact: Monitors lung-tumor motion remotely in real-time
• Minimal interference with radiotherapy systems: Can be used as a real-time monitoring of cancer or tumors without interfering with treatment beam delivery
• Capability of penetration through lung: Potentially provides more information regarding tumor size and location
Technical Details:
Johns Hopkins researchers have developed a novel radar system for use in detecting lung tumor presence and position. This characteristic enables UWB radar to penetrate through all biological tissues. In this novel application of UWB radar, a UWB pulse is directed at biological tissue, and the reflected echo signal from this tissue is measured. Different biological tissues demonstrate different signal attenuation. Experiments in which tumor-like objects were placed under animal biological tissue demonstrated that the varied signal attenuation is significant enough to distinguish altered samples from controls.
Looking for Partners:
To develop & commercialize the technology as a non-Ionizing, real-time tumor-imaging device.
Stage of Development:
Proof of Concept
Data Availability:
Under CDA / NDA
