Medical Device Detection System for Implantable Ports

Project goal: To design, build and test a handheld wireless device that locates implantable ports. Implantable ports are surgically placed inside the chest and assist in the administration of large volumes of medications, such as chemotherapy agents and contrast materials for medical imaging. The designed implantable port detection device will aid medical personnel in locating the port without relying on the typical palpation method,which requires the practitioner to feel around for the port on the patient’s chest. The device will interface with the port within the patient. The data received from the port will then be translated into physical coordinates, allowing the device to locate the port. Once the port is located, medical personnel can then access the port and administer therapeutic agents.