ETH researchers using seismic waves for ultrasound

Researchers at the ETH are using knowledge on seismic waves for medical imaging. According to the scientists at the ETH and its Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS), this method should provide the basis for imaging the brain with ultrasound in high resolution, as was reported in a press release. They are using the high-​performance computer Piz Daint at the CSCS for their investigations. 

A problem is that ultrasound has so far only worked well for soft tissues, as hard structures such as the skull strongly reflects and dampens the waves. A method that overcomes this challenge has been developed by ETH researchers with the support of CSCS. “Unlike conventional ultrasound, which only uses the arrival time of the waves, we use the entire wave information in our simulations,” PhD student Patrick Marty explained in the press release. 

According to the press release, this method developed by the team could represent a non-​invasive and cost-​effective alternative to computed tomography, X-​rays and magnetic resonance imaging. The necessary algorithms can also be fed into a computer that is integrated into special ultrasound devices, which are transportable for use in remote regions. However, the researchers behind the method emphasize that “there is still a long way to go until this can enter clinical practice”.