Improving 3D imaging for critically ill patients in the ICU
Official title: Bedside 3D diagnostic imaging in ICU
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10972753 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new mobile scanner that takes clearer 3D images of the chest to help doctors better diagnose lung problems and other issues in critically ill patients in the ICU, making it easier to provide the right care right at their bedside.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | February 16, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $351,601 |
| NIH project number | 4R33HL161819-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10972753 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill patients in the ICU who require frequent imaging for conditions such as pulmonary diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not critically ill or those who do not require imaging for their conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a mobile digital tomosynthesis scanner to enhance diagnostic imaging for critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). Traditional bedside chest x-rays, while commonly used, have limitations due to their 2D nature and the challenges posed by overlapping anatomical structures and medical devices. The new imaging technology aims to provide clearer, more accurate 3D images, which could significantly improve the diagnosis of pulmonary diseases and other conditions in critically ill patients. By enabling better imaging at the point-of-care, this approach seeks to enhance patient management and outcomes in the ICU setting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and improved treatment for critically ill patients, potentially reducing complications and enhancing recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Similar approaches using advanced imaging technologies have shown promise in improving diagnostic accuracy in other medical settings, suggesting potential success for this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Otto Z — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Otto Z
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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.