A handheld device could potentially replace stethoscopes as a tool for detecting certain types of heart disease. The device makes it easy for people with or without medical training to record heart sounds accurately. Unlike a stethoscope, the device works well even if it’s not placed precisely on the chest: its larger, flexible sensing area helps capture clearer heart sounds than traditional stethoscopes.

The device can also be used over clothing, making it more comfortable for patients — especially women — during routine check-ups or community heart health screening programs. The heart sound recordings can be saved on the device, which can then be used to detect signs of heart valve disease. The researchers are also developing a machine learning algorithm which can detect signs of valve disease automatically.

The device, about the diameter of a drinks coaster, contains materials that can transmit vibration so that it can be used over clothes, which is particularly important when conducting community screening programs to protect patient privacy. Between each of the six sensors is a gel that absorbs vibration, so the sensors don’t interfere with each other. The device could be a useful tool to triage patients who are waiting for an echocardiogram, so that those with signs of valve disease can be seen in a hospital sooner.

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Topics:
Diagnostics Health Monitors and Activity Trackers Medical

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