The AUA 2015 being one of the largest conferences for medical technology and innovation in that area, New Orleans got swamped by more than 8000 urologists and a lot of exhibitors of medical technology and gear. Using the new technology developed by Ott, Pomwenger and Wegenkittl, it is for the first time possible to reliably detect and destroy renal stones based on acoustic sound waves solely. The technology enhances the traditional setup of lithotripters by replacing the X-ray imaging by an ultra-sound device with real time stone detection and location. The new image processing technology was developed at SUAS in a project with the local hospital (SALK) and founded by a Swiss lithotripter company (SMAG).
Besides getting into contact with potential users and interested companies, the SUAS team also bought a visit to the University of New Orleans establishing a further place for cooperation and internships for Master students based on the Marshall Plan Foundation scholarships. Needless to say that downtown New Orleans' music and food also contributed a lot to the travel experience of Pomwenger and Wegenkittl, both being active musicians and devoted to the excellent Creole cuisine.
