Together, the researchers have developed a software based on ultrasound technology. With the help of the technology, it is possible to carry out detailed examinations and analyzes of tissue content and narrowings in the neck vessels. The hope is that the innovation will improve clinical assessments of patients at high risk of developing stroke.
Profit oriented guidance from LU innovation
"LU innovation encouraged us, asked relevant questions and guided us in the project and gave input with a commercial perspective. When we were unsure whether it was appropriate in the process to apply for grants, because innovation has a different character from classical academic research, they encouraged us to apply. They also have a huge network and really do their utmost to help us researchers and clinicians dare to bring forward ideas closer to becoming a product that can help patients and society", says Isabel Gonçalves, professor of cardiology and chief physician at Sus in Malmö.
Introduce product to the market
"The journey with LU innovation has been very valuable for our research, because they gave a completely different perspective on what is important to highlight. This applies both when it comes to focusing more on certain parts of the research, which become more relevant to later be able to introduce a method or a product to the market, and also for how you can improve your applications and your communication with parties who are outside the research community. Now we can much better put into words how our research contributes to society, which is very valuable to us as researchers", says Tobias Erlöv, researcher in biomedical technology at LTH.
What does receiving the big innovation award mean to you?
"Receiving the award is recognition of the interdisciplinary team effort in the research project, which unites efforts from engineers, doctors and experimental researchers. It is also a recognition of our perseverance, that we as researchers do not give up when things do not always work as we initially want, want or hope for. I think it also highlights how important it is to detect patients at risk for the major causes of death and disability worldwide. Personally, the award gives me more courage to continue my quest to try to help my patients and society as much as I can, in my role as a researcher as well as a physician", says Isabel Gonçalves.
Tips for fellow researchers who want to use LU innovation?
"Contact LU Innovation and talk about your idea already when you are at an early stage of the process, because if you then publish the results, it may be too late to get help", concludes Isabel Gonçalves.