Real-time superficial vein imaging system for observing abnormalities on vascular structures

Circulatory system abnormalities might be an indicator of diseases or tissue damage. Early detection vascular have important role during treatment and also raise the patient’s awareness. Current methods for imaging are high-cost, invasive, mostly radiation-based. In this study, a low-cost portable microcomputer-based tool has been developed as Near-Infrared (NIR) superficial device. The device uses NIR Light-Emitting Diode (LED) light at 850 nm along with other electronic optical components. It operates non-contact safe infrared (IR) method in real-time. Image video analysis carried out using OpenCV (Open-Source Computer Vision), library programming functions mainly used computer vision. Various tests were to optimize set up suitable external environment. To test performance device, images taken from three diabetic volunteers, who expected structure due possibility deformation caused by high glucose levels blood, compared two non-diabetic volunteers. As result, tortuosity was observed successfully structures, where results need interpreted medical experts field understand underlying reasons. Although study is engineering does not intention diagnose any diseases, here assist healthcare personnel early diagnosis follow-up structures may enable further opportunities.