A new tool to improve the accuracy of inserting IV catheters using ultrasound technology.
Official title: 5T-IV: photoacoustic needle with beacon pulse for ultrasound guided vascular access with Tool-Tip Tracking and Tissue Typing
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10928702 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, easy-to-use device that helps doctors place IV catheters more successfully and comfortably by using sound waves to track the needle, making it better for patients who need medications or fluids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $377,461 |
| NIH project number | 5R61HL168779-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10928702 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients requiring intravenous access for medication or fluid administration, particularly those with difficult venous access.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require IV access or those with conditions that contraindicate vascular access procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the process of vascular access, which is crucial for administering medications and fluids. It aims to develop a novel device that utilizes active acoustic communication between the needle and ultrasound imaging systems to improve the success rate of IV catheter insertions. By creating a user-friendly, low-cost, and disposable tool that tracks the needle tip and differentiates between tissue types, the research seeks to reduce the number of attempts needed for successful catheter placement, thereby minimizing patient discomfort and complications. The device is designed to work with any ultrasound system, making it widely applicable in clinical settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the pain and complications associated with IV catheter insertions, improving patient care and safety.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in improving vascular access techniques, but this specific approach utilizing active acoustic communication is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boctor, Emad M — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Boctor, Emad M
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.