Three-Dimensional Obstetric Ultrasound for the Developing World

The imaging modality of three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound has been available for a few decades. In obstetrics, its value in assessing fetal development is appreciated by medical practitioners. However, its utility has not been widely adopted due to its relatively higher cost. The main disincentive in the application of 3D ultrasound is the increased costs incurred by the patient, as insurance companies largely elect to cover only 2D imaging expenses, citing lack of increased medical value for the patient. Additionally, the prohibitive initial cost of 3D-capable ultrasound machines essentially removes this powerful medical technology out of reach of many in the developing economies. During pregnancy, assessment of fetal development is crucial in ensuring its healthy growth and development, including overall maternal health. This is especially the case in the poorest countries, where infant mortality rates are still very high. In an attempt to address this form of medical marginalization, a hybrid system is interfaced with a regular 2D ultrasound machine in the collection of 2D images that are then translated to 3D by external reconstruction software. As with many computer engineering programs, students of the computer engineering program at Utah Valley University (UVU) conclude their degree programs with a semester capstone design experience. The intent is for students to utilize competencies developed in the first three years of the curriculum in the solution of an embedded design problem. This paper summarizes the result of an undergraduate capstone experience where the feasibility of utilizing ubiquitous technology (2D ultrasound) to mimic the functionality of enhanced but expensive 3D ultrasound machines is assessed. Capstone Projects at UVU The goal of projects in our Capstone Design course is to provide our students with a realistic design experience and to teach them the tools and methodologies that can help them to be successful. Our senior design course is structured as a collection of independent student projects. This course is offered every semester. The students in the Computer Engineering program take this course during their last semester. Students either can come up with a project themselves or work on a project that is given to them by their advisors. Students write a proposal to define problems and identify solution approaches for their project and the hardware and software that is needed for their project. After several iterations, the advisor approves their project proposal. Then, they start working on their projects. Students are required to write weekly progress reports and meet with their advisor during a weekly scheduled time for each student. At the end of the semester, they turn in a final written report and a final presentation which is evaluated by several faculties from the department.