Sonic Scalpel

Dec-24-12 Researchers have developed a non-invasive scalpel that uses sound waves paired with nanotube technology to function as a sonic knife.

To create the device, researchers from the University of Michigan used an optoacoustic lens to convert pulsed laser light into sound waves. Coating the lens with a layer of carbon nanotubes and a rubbery material call polydimethylsiloxane amplified the waves to a frequency 10,000 times higher than the human range of hearing, and focusing the waves on a target created shockwaves and micro-bubbles. These waves and bubbles then created pressure that was used to cut away a targeted object.

In tests, the device was able to cut away a single ovarian cancer cell and bore a hole in an artificial kidney stone in less than one minute.

More Info about this Invention:

[POPSCI.COM]
[UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN]

---