INCLINOMETERS FOR RADIOGRAPHIC IMAGING

BACKGROUND:

Accurate interpretation of radiographic imaging studies requires knowledge of the patient’s angle of inclination at the time of image exposure. Conventional X-ray studies are presented in a two-dimensional format, effectively flattening the imaged body part or organ. The methods currently used for measuring the angle of inclination are crude and inconsistent, detecting only if a patient is lying flat or angled, but not the degree to which a patient may be angled. Such information is essentially ineffectual for the diagnostic radiologist and can result in interpretations that are misleading. A device which accurately reports the angle of the patient at the time of imaging would allow the relative effect of the gravitational force on the soft tissue structures, liquids and gaseous particles to be integrated into a more meaningful and informative interpretation of the radiographic image.

DESCRIPTION:

A UCSF researcher and clinician has designed new inclinometers tailored for use in radiographic imaging. The designs range from an inexpensive, portable version, which could be carried around by a radiology technician performing routine x-ray examinations, to versions with additional features which could be either portable or incorporated directly into the imaging cassette.

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE OFFERED BY THIS TECHNOLOGY:

The vast majority of x-ray technicians carry around the currently available crude inclinometer. Moreover, the technicians often don't bother using them during imaging. The new designs can be used to develop a product that could become an imaging standard, demanded by virtually all x-ray technicians and radiology laboratories around the world.

If you would like to receive further information about this technology and potential licensing opportunities, please contact:

Karin Immergluck, Ph.D.
Licensing Officer
Tel: (415) 353-4469
Fax: (415) 348-1579
karin.immergluck@ucsf.edu

Reference: OTM Case #SF04-099