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Coupling Ultrasound and CT Histotripsy

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To design, fabricate, and test a lifting mechanism to hold a 10-16 kg water bath above and to a CT patient table while a CT scan is performed.

Project Overview

Histotripsy is the first non-ionizing, non-thermal, and non-invasive cancer treatment technology that is guided by real-time imaging. The now FDA-approved treatment utilizes a conventional computed tomography (CT) scanner to determine the precise location coordinates of the tumor. Then, an ultrasound (US) transducer breaks down the cancerous tissue with a 100% success rate. The client, Dr. Paul Laeseke, has tasked the team with the design and fabrication of a device to securely hold 16 L degassed water, the coupling medium, in a water bath attached to a CT patient table while a CT scan is performed. This device will increase the accuracy of the medical personnel targeting and breaking down malignant cells using the US transducer [1]. The client is currently using an adaptable, movable arm that clamps onto the patient table. Because the current device cannot support the weight of the water bath at its one attachment point, there have been cases of the coupling medium spilling and water bath resting on the patient for extended periods of time causing bruising. The device must be simultaneously stable and able to move in small increments to accommodate varying patient sizes. The current vertical adjustment mechanism utilizes two scissor jacks attached on either side of a stable, curved base that rests underneath the patient, where the patient’s weight will stabilize the device. The height adjustment mechanisms are attached to the scissor jacks holding the water bath, allowing for repositioning before the procedure. The lightweight and compressible nature of this device not only allows medical personnel to easily transport the device, but also assists in creating a simpler, shorter procedure that reduces the chance of harm to patients.

Team Picture

From left to Right: Julia Salita, Ray Steinlage, Althys Cao, Emily Rhine, and Eva Schiltz
From left to Right: Julia Salita, Ray Steinlage, Althys Cao, Emily Rhine, and Eva Schiltz

Contact Information

Team Members

  • Althys Cao - Team Leader
  • Emily Rhine - Communicator
  • Eva Schiltz - BSAC
  • Julia Salita - BWIG
  • Ray Steinlage - BPAG

Advisor and Client

  • Benjamin Walker - Advisor
  • Dr. Megan Settell - Advisor
  • Dr. Paul Laeseke - Client
  • Prof. Martin Wagner - Alternate Contact

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