Watch shows the inside of veins in real time and speeds up disease diagnosis

Researchers at the South China University of Science and Technology have produced a device that shows real-time images of veins and bloodstream . The technology can be used to monitor users' health and accelerate the diagnosis of some diseases such as cancer, vascular and dermatological problems .

The clock uses photoacoustic imaging, technology that combines laser with ultrasound, to measure variables such as heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation in a non-invasive way. This information can be used to assess the user's heart health.

Through a screen on the watch, it is possible to see the veins in real time. The resolution of these images is similar to that of magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography, but without using contrast or radiation.

The tests were carried out with volunteers who used the device together with a backpack. It contains the computer, the laser and a power source, weighing approximately 7kg. People used the watch in a variety of conditions to allow the study of their circulatory system at rest and in motion.

According to Lei Xi, research coordinator, “Miniature wearable imaging systems, like the one we developed, could be used by community health centers for preliminary diagnosis of diseases or for long-term monitoring of parameters related to blood circulation in a hospital environment. , offering insights valuable in informing treatments for various diseases.”

In the future, the idea is to develop a device that does not need a backpack to monitor, allowing health assessments to be carried out during activities such as running and jumping. Thus, the heart can be evaluated in different situations, further accelerating the diagnosis of diseases.