Thanks to the invention of a handheld ultrasound machine, the doctor discovered that he had cancer

The new ultrasonic device is able to connect directly to smartphones and users can easily observe ultrasound images right on the phone screen.

Technology has advanced tremendously, so we can 'turn' massive lab tests into microchips. And even now, we can do ultrasound with just one smartphone.

Artificial intelligence and human intelligence

In 2011, business engineer Jonathan Rothberg suddenly became famous and wealthy after he unveiled the world's first DNA sequencer in a chip. It is called Ion Torrent . Years later, Rothberg founded and led a startup company called Butterfly Network, and developed a new device named iQ .

iQ is equipped with artificial intelligence that allows for ultrasound that was previously only performed in hospitals with complex machines, with just one smartphone.

You do not need to be a lab technician to use iQ. Simple, just stick with the Iphone's Lighting jack , and its machine learning algorithm helps users detect what they're looking for.

IQ also launched a revolution to replace the old ultrasound technology that has existed for more than 40 years. The transducer of this compact device uses ultra-wide bandwidth technology, which allows high-resolution ultrasound images to be displayed.

The most special thing is that this device has the ability to connect directly to smartphones. Users can easily observe ultrasound images right on the phone screen. With an extremely compact design, we can carry and use this ultrasound machine anywhere.

Basic diagnostic tool

Many people believe that ultrasound is only for pregnant women, because it is the most common method to check the health of the fetus. So why do we need a pocket ultrasound method? In fact, ultrasound is not just for pregnant women. In addition to fetal examination, ultrasound is an effective imaging tool for examining internal organs in the human body.

Home ultrasound with iQ.(Photo: Butterfly Network).

Of course, the images it creates are not as clear as those taken from high-end cameras like MRI or CT scans. However, this pocket method may be useful, especially it does not require you to go to the hospital to perform an ultrasound.

According to the official website of Butterly Network, they received permission from the US Food and Drug Administration to use iQ in the imaging diagnosis of 13 clinical applications. Includes: cardiac screening for adults and children, antenatal care, musculoskeletal testing and even bladder examination.

This new device will significantly reduce the medical procedures that used to be the exclusive land of doctors and technicians.John Martin , the head of Butterfly's health department, said: "People can simply perform ultrasound scanning with smartphones is a big step forward for people in self-monitoring." your own health.

"In the past, thermometers, blood pressure gauges, and defibrillators were only found in hospitals," Martin told Wires, who used iQ to detect a large tumor that was developing. growing in his throat and was able to remove it successfully and quickly.

Although iQ is currently only used by licensed medical service providers, Mr. Martin hopes that it will soon reach everyone.

"As soon as we bring smart technology into people's homes, the exact diagnosis can be done as soon as possible. Actually, discovering the disease early will help us treat the disease well. more, I myself am a living proof for that , 'Mr. Martin said.