Wearable Ultrasound Patch Tested for Continuous Fetal Monitoring

Scientists have developed a wearable ultrasound patch designed to monitor fetuses continuously during pregnancy. The device, named UPatch, captures real-time images and blood-flow data for several hours at a time. Current hospital ultrasound methods provide only brief snapshots, while continuous monitoring with existing equipment produces frequent false alarms, according to the researchers.

The new patch aims to address both limitations by remaining attached to the patient.

The patch uses electronic components and algorithms to maintain signal quality despite fetal movement and vessel depth. In one study involving 62 pregnant participants, measurements from the patch closely matched those obtained with standard handheld ultrasound devices, said Tom Park, lead author and PhD student at the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering.

A second test tracked fetal heart rate and blood flow continuously in 52 pregnant women. In one case involving pre-eclampsia, the device detected severe intrauterine growth restriction and prompted an emergency caesarean delivery.

The current prototype remains tethered to external electronics and requires conventional ultrasound for initial placement. Researchers are now developing a wireless version intended for home and daily use. Prof Sheng Xu of Stanford University, a senior author, said continuous data collection could establish individual baselines and identify meaningful changes.

Dr Antoniya Georgieva of the University of Oxford, also a senior author, noted the technology could supply new information on fetal development and stillbirth prevention.