Undergoing tests such as mammograms and MRIs can be awkward, but now researchers from Purdue University have developed a new technology that may make the procedures more comfortable for patients—with stretchable radiofrequency coils.

“Imagine going for an imaging session and they strap on a comfortable fabric with the coils embedded inside,” said Joseph Rispoli, PhD, an assistant professor of biomedical engineering and electrical and computer engineering in Purdue’s College of Engineering. “We created an adaptable, wearable and stretchable fabric embroidered with conductive threads that provides excellent signal-to-noise ratio for enhanced MRI scanning.”

The thread technology used in the Purdue innovation is similar to that found in applications for the aerospace and defense industries. Rispoli said the technology also is applicable to breast MRI and to enhancing medical device communication using wearable or implantable antennas.

“Our preliminary results show a full-scale device will be superior in all aspects of diagnostic testing, including increased sensitivity and fewer false positives,” Rispoli said.

Read the full story from Purdue University.

Featured image: The Purdue University team developed RF coils that are formable and stretchable for medical imaging. Credit: Joseph Rispoli/Purdue University