 |
|
|
|
Dune's real-time tissue characterization systems are designed to give the surgeon a simple, immediate indication about the presence of cancer at the measured site. In the MarginProbe™, currently in clinical trials, the measured site is a 7mm wide by 1mm deep, coin-shaped slice of tissue against which the sensor, at the tip of the probe, is pressed. If there are cancerous clusters in the "slice", the system is designed to flag the user by an audible and visual signal. Otherwise the system will indicate "clear". The probe is designed for the unique demands of each procedure: As currently tested in lumpectomies, it is a hand-held probe containing control buttons and audiovisual indicators, while for endoscopic procedures it will be designed as an endoscope insert for operation through the endoscope's generic working channel.
Dune's platform has two components: a disposable probe unit and an external console unit.
|
|
|
|
Disposable probe
 |
The heart of the disposable probe unit is Dune's proprietary miniature sensor.
This electromagnetic fringe field sensor (FFS) is capable of sensing minute differences in electromagnetic properties within its immediate vicinity. Dune's unique design will enable an accurate capture of a cell cluster's electromagnetic signature (i.e. cancerous or healthy). The FFS is patent protected in the United States, EU, and Japan.
|
The console
 |
The console unit contains the control, data input, data processing, and display elements.
|
|
|
