Grant: DRA : Canada Graduate Research Scholarship - Doctoral Program (CGRS D)

Much like the sensation of drowning, the lungs of ICU patients are often filled with fluid as a result of severe infections such as COVID-19. Clinicians currently face significant challenges in assessing the extent of this fluid buildup, as accurate quantification often requires prolonged exposure to harmful radiation. Moreover, treatment is complicated by the fact that lung injury is rarely uniform, some regions may be severely damaged while others remain functional, making it difficult to target therapies effectively. In this project, we propose to develop novel, radiation-free approaches for monitoring pulmonary fluid accumulation in a simple, bedside-compatible manner. Our solution integrates ultrasound (US) and photoacoustic (PA) imaging, two complementary techniques that use harmless light and sound to visualize lung injury. This approach offers enhanced regional specificity, enabling precise mapping of lung damage. By allowing real-time assessment of how the lungs respond to treatment, this technology could help physicians adjust therapies earlier, track recovery and prevent complications. I will validate this technology against established clinical standards, with the ultimate goal of providing physicians with an accessible tool to monitor disease progression and optimize treatment strategies for critically ill patients.