It is our goal to demonstrate that our methods of ultrasound imaging can be used to diagnose and possibly detect breast tumors at the same stage as is currently possible with mammography, but without the pain of compression or the perceived harmful effects of ionizing radiation. In addition, the methods can be used to form 3D images of the breast for complete mapping of breast tissue and tumors. 3D imaging will provide details of breast cancers that can be analyzed and compared from year to year with much higher confidence. This effort is a collaboration with university researchers, military researchers, and industry. Medical researchers, including physicians and scientists, have praised the work as leading edge research that moves ultrasound to the next level of value in diagnostics.
Military researchers value the technology for applications in combat casualty care.
Industry leaders see an opportunity to improve their imaging products and market competitiveness. Sandia is currently collaborating with the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center and various ultrasound industry leaders.