Researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking wearable device that continuously monitors the heart and lungs of hospital patients as they rest, presenting a transformative alternative to traditional CT scans. Developed by scientists at the University of Bath in partnership with Polish tech firm Netrix, the innovative belt-like device wraps around the chest and uses ultrasound technology to produce high-resolution, real-time images of internal organs. Unlike CT scans that provide a single snapshot, this device delivers a dynamic stream of images over extended periods, offering clinicians a more comprehensive view of a patient’s health.
Described in a recent IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement publication, the soft, skin-adherent sensor array employs ultrasound computed tomography (USCT) to continuously track changes in organ structure and function for hours or even days.
Patients with conditions such as heart failure, pneumonia, or respiratory distress typically undergo repeated, disruptive imaging procedures that involve radiation exposure. This new wearable enables continuous, bedside monitoring without the need for patient transport, enhancing comfort and allowing earlier detection of clinical changes.
Designed with long-term wear in mind, the device features soft, flexible materials and supports wireless data transmission, making it compatible with existing hospital monitoring systems. Future versions may integrate AI-driven diagnostics to assist clinicians by identifying early warning signs not easily visible to the human eye.
The potential applications extend beyond hospitals, offering possibilities for at-home monitoring of elderly individuals or patients with chronic heart and lung diseases. By facilitating early intervention, the technology could also reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and ease the burden on healthcare systems.
