Euclid, Ohio Patent of the Year – 2024/2025
Powdermet Inc. has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for a pioneering medical imaging innovation. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 11859489, titled ‘Acoustic imaging agent’, introduces a new class of materials that enhance ultrasound imaging with greater precision and safety.
This technology uses microstructured particles filled with gas to improve how ultrasound captures internal images of the body. These tiny, engineered spheres respond to sound waves more clearly than traditional agents, helping doctors see organs, tissues, and blood flow with greater clarity.
One of the major advantages of this invention is its stability. The particles maintain their structure and acoustic response longer than conventional agents. This gives medical professionals more time and better contrast during imaging procedures. The particles are also designed to be biocompatible and safe for use in the body.
Beyond diagnostics, the technology has potential applications in targeted drug delivery, where the particles could carry medications to specific tissues and release them using ultrasound. This opens up promising paths for less invasive treatment options.
By advancing how ultrasound images are produced and interpreted, Powdermet Inc. is helping improve patient outcomes across a wide range of medical conditions. The invention reflects the company’s commitment to developing smarter, safer tools for tomorrow’s healthcare systems.