Knowledge-based mechanical imaging

Mechanical imaging (MI) is a new modality of medical imaging, mimicking palpatory diagnostics. MI provides a 3D reconstruction of the internal structures of body soft tissues using measurements of stress patterns on the surface of the investigated tissue. In contrast to other, existing methods of medical imaging which use sophisticated hardware such as superconductive magnets, expensive X-ray equipment and complex ultrasonic phased arrays, MI hardware consists of inexpensive mechanical sensors and a positioning system connected to a PC. The results of our pilot studies have proven the feasibility of the MI technology. Currently, devices for the MI of the prostate gland and breast are being developed. Recently, the first 3D MI of in-vivo prostate has been obtained. Preliminary data strongly suggest that MI technology is an efficient means of objectively evaluating and imaging the prostate, and of detecting prostate cancer.