Clinical applications of functional ultrasound took a step closer this week, with the release from our engineering workshop of the first Iconeus One system destined for use on humans. This represents a major milestone for our team, who have been busy optimizing Iconeus One for clinical studies, as well as building and delivering the system to a tight schedule.
Towards functional ultrasound imaging of humans
The new equipment will be installed at the Robert Debré Hospital in Paris, where it will be a key part of the ongoing three-year ‘CONEXUS’ project. Amongst other deliverables, the project aims to assess the use of Iconeus One Clinical Research edition for bedside monitoring of brain functional connectivity in newborns (neonates), with the ultimate ambition of achieving early diagnosis of abnormal brain development.
This project will be the first time that our technology has been used for this purpose.
A pivotal moment in fUS research
The CONEXUS project is being led by Charlie Demené, Ph.D., who is an Associate Professor of Acoustics and Medical Imaging at the ESPCI, and a researcher at Physics for Medicine Paris. Dr Demené said: “It has been a pleasure to work closely with Iconeus on developing the clinical capabilities of Iconeus One – and very exciting that the instrument is now ready for the next stage in the project”.
“Once the necessary regulatory checks have been done on the equipment, we look forward to starting the experimental work in earnest later this year, and to seeing what can be achieved with the system. I’m optimistic about the capabilities of Iconeus One, and very much hope that it will mark the start of a revolution in how we diagnose and treat neurodevelopmental disorders”.
In conclusion, the delivery of an Iconeus One system for a clinical research application is a pivotal moment for Iconeus. It is certainly a privilege to have a role in this important project, and the whole Iconeus team will be eagerly anticipating the first results when they come through.
