This SBIR Phase II award is for further research on a method to evaluate blood flow in capillary beds using Doppler ultrasound and a contrast media. The Phase I research verified the presence of flows in the capillary beds and that relative changes in flow could be detected. The Phase II research will focus on theoretical and experimental analyses of flow and perfusion and the construction of a laboratory prototype. In addition, a method to determine perfusion without the need for the contrast agent will be explored. The technique to make noninvasive measurements of microcirculatory blood flow should have extensive commercial potential in the medical imaging field for measuring myocardial infarct, vessel occlusion, tissue perfusion, etc. In addition, the device should have applications in the fields of chemical and materials engineering and manufacturing.
