Fraunhofer IPA develops new solution for automated ultrasound documentation

In everyday clinical practice, every minute counts, especially during examinations that require a high level of concentration and must be documented at the same time. Fraunhofer IPA is presenting a technology that significantly simplifies this process in pediatrics and reduces the workload for medical staff.

Automation approach for ultrasound saves documentation time

In many clinics, the position of an ultrasound scan is still marked manually. Doctors use a trackball to place a pictogram on the screen and compare it with the actual position on the body. The method seems simple, but it takes time, disrupts the workflow, and increases stress.

SonoMap position determination

An integrated image processing pipeline analyzes the ultrasound probe and the relevant body region and automatically reconstructs the imaging position. Segmentation algorithms perform the mapping in the background without the need for staff intervention. This eliminates the need for visual marking on the display and makes the documentation process an invisible part of the examination.

Efficiency gains for ultrasound in pediatrics

Since young patients often move around, avoiding manual steps is particularly valuable. The technology creates calm in the process, reduces misassignments, and allows for a stronger focus on the child.

Fraunhofer IPA evaluates workload reduction in ultrasound documentation

Fraunhofer IPA is currently conducting scientific research into how much the documentation effort can be reduced. A publication will present initial results and quantify the impact of automated processes on costs, time requirements, and error rates. Manual documentation has been one of the structural burdens on the healthcare system for years.

Minimizing documentation effort in clinical procedures

The approach is not only suitable for ultrasound. Other clinical instruments that are placed on the body can also be automatically recorded – for both children and adults. The institute is looking for further cooperation partners to expand into additional specialist areas.