Wearable Photoacoustic/Ultrasound Imaging with a Curved Linear Array

Participation in adolescent sporting activities carries the risk of associated injuries, particularly muscle afflictions, which contribute significantly to acute sports-related injuries. While adolescents tend to heal faster than adults, the potential for recurrent injuries remains high. Existing diagnostic methods, such as MRI, Doppler imaging, and ultrasound, have limitations in cost, accuracy, and dynamic imaging capability. To address these challenges, we propose a wearable dual-modal photoacoustic and ultrasound system for imaging muscle and vasculature damage in bilateral limbs. Our system aims to provide dynamic imaging while minimizing human error, aiding in accurate initial diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment assessment for sports injuries. The wearable device integrates a curved linear array, a 3D printed casing, and utilizes an agar gel block as a coupling medium. Experimental validation through phantom imaging and healthy human trials demonstrates the system's potential for enhanced diagnostic capabilities and treatment evaluation. The proposed wearable dual-modal system holds promise for more effective and efficient assessment of sports-related injuries in adolescents.