Russian scientists develop advanced forearm tissue model to aid ultrasound research

RUSSIA—Scientists at the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine in Moscow have created a sophisticated forearm tissue phantom to support a groundbreaking research project at Bauman Moscow State Technical University.

This innovative model plays a crucial role in testing a new ultrasound-based method designed to study muscle function more accurately.

The forearm tissue phantom, also known as a test system, was carefully constructed with precise, known dimensions.

This accuracy is essential because it allows researchers to validate the new ultrasound technique under controlled conditions.

The materials used to build the model were selected from the Center’s extensive in-house database of tissue-mimicking substances, which are specially designed for radiology applications.

Yuri Vasiliev, Chief Consultant for Radiology at the Moscow Healthcare Department, praised the collaboration between the Center and Bauman University.

He highlighted that developing a soft tissue phantom tailored for a specific study is a prime example of successful teamwork between two leading scientific institutions in Moscow.

Vasiliev emphasized that this partnership not only advances cutting-edge technology but also demonstrates the ability of Moscow specialists to independently create reliable tools for testing and validation.

He described such comprehensive projects as fundamental to Russia’s scientific and technological independence.

One of the main reasons for developing this phantom was the challenge of testing the new ultrasound method on live human subjects.

Since it is impossible to measure tissue properties with the precision required in living volunteers, the phantom provides a reliable and reproducible alternative.

 This allows researchers to establish accurate benchmarks and verify the ultrasound technique effectively.

Dr. Anton Vladzimirsky, Deputy Director for Research at the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine, explained the technical details of the model.

The test system consists of two parts: one where layers mimicking skin, fat, and muscle are stacked as rectangles, and another where these layers are shaped as cubes with specific dimensions.

The team carefully chose materials based on their hardness and echogenicity (how they reflect ultrasound waves), using substances from their specialized database.

This selection process significantly sped up the development of the phantom.

The practical value of the forearm tissue phantom has been confirmed through successful trials, and the results have been published in a scientific journal.

 This achievement underscores the Center for Diagnostics and Telemedicine’s role as a leading scientific and practical organization within the Moscow Healthcare Department.

The Center oversees radiology departments, drives digital transformation in healthcare, implements artificial intelligence technologies in clinical practice, conducts advanced research, and provides training for medical professionals.

Since 2013, the Center’s staff have produced over 800 scientific publications, including articles, guidelines, monographs, and training manuals.

 They have also registered more than 200 intellectual property items, reflecting their ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in medical science.

This development marks a significant step forward in the field of medical imaging and muscle function research, showcasing the power of collaboration and innovation in Moscow’s scientific community.

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