Application of Finger-Mounted Ultrasound Array Probes

In this Phase II research, Blacktoe Medical will design, manufacture and test a finger-worn ultrasound-imaging probe, optimized for Army vascular access requirements. The vascular finger probe will simplify use and reduce the time to learn complicated ultrasound guided procedures. By leveraging human hand-eye coordination and intuitive knowledge of finger position and orientation, the probe will allow new users to quickly become proficient. Feedback from military end users state that a finger probe with commercially available portable ultrasound system will expand greatly their capabilities in the combat field and transport. Earlier intervention capabilities in the field, particularly central line placement under ultrasound guidance, will save solders lives. Major Phase II milestones include completing a functional design of the finger probe, assembling and testing a functional “alpha” probe, testing the performance and reliability of the probe by performing image quality and safety tests, qualifying the probe for clinical-simulated testing by performing a comprehensive clinical regulatory review (CRR) and performing a clinical assessment of the probe comparing the usability, ease of use, accuracy and speed in comparison to a standard probe for performing vascular access procedures using anthropomorphic ultrasound phantoms. The probe will be commercialized in Phase III.