Browse Topic: Telemedicine

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Materials Matter for Connected HealthTBMG-345506/1/2019
Technology has always played a central role in healthcare. From microscopes to medical imaging, and from pacemakers to prosthetics, technological breakthroughs throughout history have improved diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Wireless Sensor Monitors Blood Flow after SurgeryTBMG-339973/1/2019
A new device developed by Stanford University researchers could make it easier for doctors to monitor the success of blood vessel surgery. The sensor, detailed in a paper published in Nature Biomedical Engineering, monitors the flow of blood through an artery. It is biodegradable, battery-free, and wireless, so it is compact and doesn't need to be removed, and it can warn a patient's doctor if there is a blockage.
Self-Powered, Paper-Based Devices for Medical DiagnosticsTBMG-285723/1/2018
A new medical diagnostic device made of paper detects biomarkers and identifies diseases by performing electrochemical analyses — powered only by the user’s touch — and reads out the color-coded test results, making it easy for nonexperts to understand.
Kid: A Telemedicine Solution for Retinopathy of PrematurityTBMG-2784411/1/2017
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disease that affects premature infants. It is the leading cause of childhood blindness. Although effective treatments exist, many infants are still at-risk due to the small window of time for detection. The current standard of care consists of in-person, manual screening by a pediatric ophthalmologist. Unfortunately, the number of infants in need of screening far surpasses the availability of specifically trained ophthalmologists. Consequently, fewer than 30 percent of neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) worldwide have fully compliant ROP screening programs.
2017 Create the Future Design Contest: Medical Category WinnerTBMG-2782011/1/2017
The Impact of Video Compression on Remote Cardiac Pulse Measurement Using Imaging Photoplethysmography17AERP10_0710/1/2017
Remote physiological measurement technique leverages digital cameras to recover the blood volume pulse from the human body. Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio Remote measurement of physiological signals has a number of advantages over traditional contact methods. It allows the measurement of vital signals unobtrusively and concomitantly. In recent years, a number of approaches for imaging-based measurement of physiology using digital cameras have been proposed. Imaging photoplethysmography (iPPG) captures variations in light reflected from the body due to blood volume changes in microvascular tissue. It has been demonstrated that sub-pixel variations in color channel measurements from a digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera, when aggregated, could be used to recover the blood volume pulse. Subsequently, it was shown that iPPG methods can allow accurate measurement of heart rate, heart rate variability, breathing rate, blood oxygenation and pulse transit time. A number of parameters influence the accuracy of iPPG measurements. These include the imager quality, and the frame rate and resolution of the images. Previous research compared remote physiological measurement using a low cost webcam and a high-speed color CMOS and showed similar signals were captured from both cameras, further supporting that iPPG is a practical method for scalable applications such as telemedicine. It was also found that reducing frame rate from 120Hz to 30Hz and/or reducing image resolution from 658×492 pixels to 329×246 pixels had little impact on the accuracy of pulse rate measurements. Video compression is an important parameter that has not been systematically studied with regard to iPPG.
The Impact of Video Compression on Remote Cardiac Pulse Measurement Using Imaging PhotoplethysmographyTBMG-2764810/1/2017
Remote measurement of physiological signals has a number of advantages over traditional contact methods. It allows the measurement of vital signals unobtrusively and concomitantly. In recent years, a number of approaches for imaging-based measurement of physiology using digital cameras have been proposed. Imaging photoplethysmography (iPPG) captures variations in light reflected from the body due to blood volume changes in microvascular tissue. It has been demonstrated that sub-pixel variations in color channel measurements from a digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera, when aggregated, could be used to recover the blood volume pulse. Subsequently, it was shown that iPPG methods can allow accurate measurement of heart rate, heart rate variability, breathing rate, blood oxygenation and pulse transit time.
Ad Hoc Selection of Voice Over Internet StreamsTBMG-268735/1/2017
NASA seeks interested parties to license the Ad Hoc Selection for Voice Over Internet (VoIP) Streams technology developed by engineers at Johnson Space Center. This technology features the ability to select specific audio streams from one or more sources and then convert them into a multicast to the user's audio player. This selection ability benefits the user by allowing a wide range of information and/or data to be monitored from a remote location using existing network technologies in near real time. For example, a user with a personal computer equipped with special-purpose audio player software first needs to launch the program and provide an identification and a password. Once both access control checks are completed, the audio software graphic is displayed, including audio stream and volume control buttons. The user can now select up to 21 streams to monitor simultaneously.
Tension Distribution in Tendon-Driven FingersTBMG-253719/1/2016
Researchers at the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC), in collaboration with General Motors and Oceaneering, have designed a state-of-the-art, highly dexterous, humanoid robot called Robonaut 2 (R2). R2 is made up of multiple component technologies and systems encompassing nearly 50 patented and patent-pending technologies with the potential to be game-changers in multiple industries, including the medical industry. R2 technologies can aid in a variety of medical applications, ranging from telemedicine to handling the logistics of medical procedures. These activities can be done in autonomous mode or in teleoperation mode, where the robot is controlled by a technician or physician. This type of operation would be advantageous in situations where a biomedical hazard poses risks to humans, such as a contagious outbreak or a combat situation. For more routine daily use, R2 could function as an assistant to the hospital staff.
Managing Cybersecurity Risks in Connected Medical DevicesTBMG-252108/1/2016
The landscape of the medical device industry is changing, driven by emerging technologies and the influx of smart devices, telemedicine, and new patient care models. This new frontier is not without risks; integrating connected capabilities into medical devices has raised the stakes. In addition to human error or device malfunction, developers and manufacturers must think about things like hacking, malware, breaches, and bugs, making strong cybersecurity checks and balances more relevant than ever.
NASA Humanoid Robot Testing TelemedicineTBMG-225688/1/2015
Researchers at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, in collaboration with General Motors and Oceaneering, designed a state-of-the-art, highly dexterous, humanoid robot, Robonaut 2 (R2), and sent it to the International Space Station where it remains, working alongside human astronauts.
Toward a Standards-based Framework for E-Health InteroperabilityTBMG-224737/1/2015
Varied stakeholders in healthcare around the world increasingly share and recognize a requirement for standards-based interoperability.
Best-in-Class Technologies for High Performance, Compliant Mobile Medical DevicesTBMG-213291/1/2015
Portable and wearable healthcare devices represent growing, high volume markets for the medtech industry. Patient monitors are evolving from stationary equipment designed for a hospital bedside to small, lightweight, integrated devices designed to give patients the mobility to remain in their homes and communities while under a physician’s care. Advanced technologies are driving innovations in mobile healthcare delivery—exciting diagnostic and monitoring telehealth and eHealth devices that allow physicians to reach more people more efficiently, even in remote regions of the world. Optimal patient comfort and mobility depends on packaging more features into thinner, smaller devices. Developing reliable devices that perform seamlessly in non-traditional healthcare environments beyond the confines of clinical settings presents unique challenges for medical device designers.
R&D Roundup: NovemberTBMG-1769811/1/2013
A team of researchers at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago has revealed clinical applications for the world’s first thought-controlled bionic vleg—a significant milestone for lower limb amputees in the rapidly growing field of bionics. Neural signals were used to safely improve limb control of the leg, which features intelligent engineering, meaning that it can learn and perform activities including seamless transitions between sitting, walking, ascending, and descending stairs and ramps and repositioning the leg while seated.
Wireless Patient Monitoring Based on Personal Area NetworksTBMG-75593/1/2010
The Wireless Patient Monitoring System deploys the Zigbee standard to create a Personal Area Network (a wireless network with a coverage area of around 10 m) that is capable of integrating into the same wireless network used by monitoring systems such as an electrocardiogram, pulse oxymeter, blood pressure sensor, and glucometer. The patient monitor also includes a gateway device for data encapsulation and transmission to the back-end systems via Ethernet, WiFi, and GSM/GPRS/UMTS connections. This gateway device also encompasses a Java applet for data presentation over an LCD touchscreen. For increased integration and interoperability features, the system also supports Bluetooth connectivity. The system supports up to 4 devices transmitting at the same time, and is powered with a rechargeable battery.
Algorithms for Haptic Rendering of 3D ObjectsTBMG-10637/1/2003
Algorithms have been developed to provide haptic rendering of three-dimensional (3D) objects in virtual (that is, computationally simulated) environments. The goal of haptic rendering is to generate tactual displays of the shapes, hardnesses, surface textures, and frictional properties of 3D objects in real time. Haptic rendering is a major element of the emerging field of computer haptics, which invites comparison with computer graphics. We have already seen various applications of computer haptics in the areas of medicine (surgical simulation, telemedicine, haptic user interfaces for blind people, and rehabilitation of patients with neurological disorders), entertainment (3D painting, character animation, morphing, and sculpting), mechanical design (path planning and assembly sequencing), and scientific visualization (geophysical data analysis and molecular manipulation).
NSUTCQ: an Alternative Image-Compression AlgorithmTBMG-2982812/1/1999
No-shift universal trellis-coded quantization (NSUTCQ) is an image-data-compression/decompression algorithm designed to be especially useful in telemedicine. Like some other image-compression/decompression algorithms, this one provides both (1) lossy compression/decompression for transmission of most of the information in an image subject to competing requirements to limit transmission time, transmission bandwidth, and image distortion and (2) lossless (or constrained-loss) compression/decompression for transmitting the residual information (the remainder of the information necessary for reconstruction in full detail) about regions of interest (ROIs) within images. Thus, in telemedicine, a diagnostician could preliminarily view less-detailed versions of images, then select ROIs that appear to be significant and request reconstruction of the fully detailed versions of the ROIs.
Acoustic Sensor to Monitor Physiology and VoiceTBMG-3007610/1/1999
The Army Research Laboratory (ARL) has developed a new method of measuring human physiological stress parameters. This consists of an acoustic sensor positioned inside a fluid-filled bladder in contact with the body. Packaging the sensor in this manner minimizes outside environmental interferences, and signals within the body are transmitted to the bladder with minimal losses. This fluid-coupling technology comfortably conforms to the human body, and enhances the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of human physiology to that of ambient noise. An acoustic sensor system can detect changes in a person's physiological status resulting from exertion or injuries such as trauma, penetrating wound, hypothermia, dehydration, heat stress and many other conditions or illnesses. A sensor contacting the torso, head, or throat region picks up the wearer's voice very well through the flesh, with fidelity sufficient to be used as a hands-free voice activation mechanism. Several different sensor configurations developed for evaluation include torso mount, neck attachment, and standard PASGT helmet headband mount.
A Vision for Telemedicine Aboard the International Space Station1999-01-20147/12/1999
The practice of space medicine is fraught by several unique challenges, including limitations in spacecraft resources and limited medical training opportunities. The great distance separating the astronauts from their doctors on Earth further confounds managing their health. NASA uses computer and telecommunication technology to bridge this distance and practice telemedicine. Since the beginning of the U.S. space program, NASA flight surgeons have relied on two-way radio communication and limited biomedical telemetry to remotely assist the crew in managing crew health matters. More recently, the capability for bi-directional video transmission was added, to enable the crew to speak virtually face-to-face with their doctors. However, for the International Space Station (ISS), additional capabilities must be provided. This paper presents a vision for delivering telemedicine in the ISS era.
Simmons, Scott C., Melton,, Shannon L., Johannesen,, John C., Kraus, Douglas P., Hamilton, Douglas R.
Advanced Telemedicine System Concepts for Planetary Exploration Missions9815967/13/1998
Human missions to Mars will represent not only a departure from the relative protection and proximity of low Earth orbit but also the way space missions are currently conducted. Traveling at 180,000 miles per second, radiofrequency communication will require up to 20 minutes to reach Mars from Earth. Extended periods of communication blackout may leave the Mars-nauts without Earth contact for weeks. Crews will be on their own to recover from mission complications, including serious crew member illness or injury. These conditions dictate unique applications of telemedicine.
Simmons, Scott C., Butler, Douglas J., Johannesen, John C., Melton, Shannon L., Kraus, Douglas P., Hamilton, Douglas R.
Trauma Laparotomy in Space: A Discussion of the Potential Indications, Conduct of Operation, and Technical Support for the Treatment of Abdominal Trauma During Long Duration Space Exploration9816017/13/1998
As the construction of an International Space Station approaches reality, the next phases in the exploration of Space will require long duration missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The risk of traumatic injury and death will be an ever present factor in near space (within our solar system). Reviews of trauma deaths have consistently found that the greatest reduction in preventable death will occur by addressing definitive airway management, treatment of hemothorax and pneumothorax, and control of intra-abdominal hemorrhage. On a long duration space voyage realistic capabilities exist to potentially manage the first two injuries of this triad. The ability to manage a patient requiring operative control of an abdominal injury represents a quantum leap in commitment, but provides a new standard to target in surgical support of the ongoing exploration of space. Advances and developments in surgery, telemedicine, telerobotics, and the acceptance of non-operative management and operative damage control strategies have potential impact on the conduct of trauma care in Space. It will be important to incorporate the most suitable elements of these into an overall management scheme if trauma care is to be realistically provided on any long duration Space mission.
Williams, D., Breeck, K.
3-D Ultrasound for Medical Imaging in Space9722867/1/1997
Ultrasound is attractive for medical imaging in space because scanners can be small, lightweight, low power, and have minimal electromagnetic emissions. In addition, unlike conventional 2-D ultrasound. 3-D ultrasound allows an operator with no diagnostic skills to collect high-quality scans that can be interpreted by a remote expert. This allows 3-D ultrasound to be used effectively in remote locations. These capabilities are illustrated by the MUSTPAC-1, a portable 3-D ultrasound telemedicine system recently developed for the U.S. military. Design, implementation, and field experiences with the MUSTPAC-1 are discussed, and extensions for use in space are proposed.
Littlefield, Richard J., Macedonia, Christian R.
Development of a Telemedicine Workstation to Support NASA Medical Operations9516147/1/1995
NASA flight surgeons have routinely relied on telemedicine to augment inflight medical care since the Gemini program. The current telemedicine capability aboard the Space Shuttle is limited to two-way voice communication, one-way video, and telemetry of ECG and spacecraft parameters. This capability has been sufficient to manage the routine minor medical problems that have occurred in-flight, but long-duration Space Shuttle and International Space Station missions are likely to be accompanied by more serious medical contingencies. In the event of emergent crew health problems, NASA flight surgeons will require an improved capability to provide a rapid, accurate assessment of an ill or injured crewmember. Onboard systems will supply flight surgeons and medical specialty consultants with real-time voice communication, medical video, and data. The NASA Medical Operations Branch, in its effort to develop a complete telemedicine system, is developing a telemedicine workstation to enable the flight surgeons in the Mission Control Center to effectively manage this flow of information. This paper describes the preliminary design of a telemedicine workstation that will facilitate information management and telemedical examinations from space.
Armstrong, Cheryl W., Simmons, Scott C.
Telemedicine Between Australia and Antarctica: 1911-19959516167/1/1995
Telemedicine, in one form or another, has long been a cornerstone of Australian Antarctic medical practice. The extreme remoteness, difficulty of evacuation and inherent limitations of a sole doctor all mean that the ability to communicate with distant health professionals is extremely desirable. For many years such communication was achieved through the use of radio, but with the introduction of satellite communications to Antarctica in the 1980s a more sophisticated system became possible, with a much wider variety of applications. In spite of recent advances, written and oral communication remain the most important tools. However, the ability to transmit digital images has also proven of great value, especially in the field of radiology.
Sullivan, Peter, Lugg, Desmond J.
Telemedicine: A Technology with Space Flight and Terrestrial Health Care Applications9516137/1/1995
During Space Shuttle missions, telemedicine is used daily to ensure the health and productivity of the crew. NASA has incorporated telemedicine into routine space operations since the beginning of the space program, utilizing its experience in advanced satellite communications to assist in providing terrestrial health care during several telemedicine projects. Telemedicine is a technology with promise for improving access to health care on Earth, and numerous terrestrial telemedicine programs are currently underway. NASA and the terrestrial health care community have important roles to play in telemedicine technology development, and each stand to benefit greatly from the other's telemedicine experiences.
Simmons, Scott C.
The Telemedicine Instrumentation Pack: A Portable Diagnostic Clinic9516157/1/1995
As a more permanent human presence in space is established during future missions, crew health issues will require additional attention. Since a physician will not be a part of most crews, the flight surgeons will require more clinical information than can currently be provided to regularly assess crew health status and direct medical treatment. The Telemedicine Instrumentation Pack (TIP) is being designed to enable the Crew Medical Officers (CMO) in space to acquire the necessary medical information for telemedical consultation with the flight surgeons in the Mission Control Center (MCC). To date, two prototypes of the TIP have been developed, with the first being clinically evaluated in a local telemedicine testbed in the Fall of 1994 and the second prototype being recently completed. The current system concept, progress in the development of the system, plans for future development, and the evolution of the system are described.
Pohl, John R., Simmons, Scott C., Guess, Terrell M.
Microgravity and Ground Simulations of Prototype Health Maintenance System Equipment9413206/1/1994
This paper presents a summary of recent evaluations of prototype Health Maintenance System (HMS) equipment and medical procedures under development for use aboard the International Space Station. Evaluations involved a series of preparatory ground simulations which provided baseline data while allowing opportunities to evaluate medical operational procedures. Ground simulations were followed by a series of parabolic flights offering a microgravity environment. Data gathered in parabolic flight addressed specific questions as to the efficacy of procedures and the HMS equipment performance.
Johnston, S. L., Campbell, M.R., Billica, R.D., Eichstadt, F.T.
Design and Evaluation of an Electronic Stethoscope System for the Space Station Freedom HMF9013237/1/1990
Electronic stethoscope systems have been developed which are capable of acquiring and transmitting heart, lung and bowel sounds, with an electronic stethoscope system, the space station Freedom Health Maintenance Facility (HMF) will have the capability to electronically acquire, store, and transmit lung, heart, and bowel sounds to earth. This electronic stethoscope system will aid in clinical diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring functions. In order to accomplish these medical functions, the system must be designed to maintain the clinically relevant fidelity of the various body sounds. To evaluate these clinically relevant performance requirements, both subjective and objective test plans have been conceived. These test plans will be discussed, as well as preliminary results.
Gosbee, John
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