ThrombUS+

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and its potentially fatal complication, pulmonary embolism, are among the most significant global health risks. Their often asymptomatic progression makes early diagnosis particularly difficult, even though it is crucial to prevent life-threatening consequences and long-term damage. Moreover, the risk of DVT increases in the absence of effective preventive measures.

Within the ThrombUS+ project, a wearable, integrated medical device is being developed for continuous point-of-care monitoring of DVT. Various signal data will be analyzed using AI-powered software to enable real-time DVT detection and risk assessment. The device also incorporates inertial measurement units to monitor lower limb activity, as well as extended reality and serious gaming elements to guide patients through exercises aimed at DVT prevention.

Potential application areas for this new medical device include:

• Monitoring thrombosis formation and alerting surgeons during prolonged surgical procedures
• Continuous monitoring of high-risk patients during postoperative care, in clinical settings or at home
• DVT risk management in various environments, such as at home or during long-haul flights
• On-site DVT prevention through guided physical activity

The project aims to develop a miniaturized, cost-efficient, and widely applicable monitoring system to:

• Enable early and reliable detection of DVT to prevent severe complications
• Improve patient care through continuous, operator-independent monitoring and reduce the risk of long-term health consequences
• Lower healthcare costs through preventive and targeted interventions
• Promote knowledge transfer in the technical development and regulatory support of future innovative AI-based medical devices