In a recent interview with 21st Century Business Herald, Ir Professor Zheng Yongping, Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering, Chair Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Director of Research Institute for Smart Ageing, Director of Jockey Club Smart Ageing Hub and Co-founder of Eieling Technology, highlighted the groundbreaking ultrasound scoliosis device developed under his leadership at PolyU. This innovative device was realised through the University’s academic-led startup Telefield Medical Imaging Limited (under Aitrasound group), which he co-founded. It is designed for screening, diagnosing, monitoring and providing real-time treatment feedback for spinal deformity, which affects nearly ten million individuals in Mainland China.

In response to the growing challenge of scoliosis among children and adolescents in China, Telefield stepped in to develop the world’s first and only radiation-free 3D ultrasound imaging system—Scolioscan®. This novel technology overcomes the limitations of traditional X-ray methods, providing accurate 3D images in just 30 seconds. By eliminating radiation exposure and the need for frequent imaging, it effectively addresses the risks associated with conventional detection methods.

Journey to medical innovation

After moving to Hong Kong in 1993 to pursue his doctoral degree at PolyU, Professor Zheng—recognised among the top 2% most-cited scientists globally by Standford University based on citation impact for three years in a row (2021-2023)—focused on ultrasound technology research. Initially involved in industrial applications, he gradually transitioned to the medical field, concentrating on spinal health. In 2012, he founded the startup Telefield, which has since secured over HKD100 million in funding for research and development.

Recognised in the “Forbes Asia 100 to Watch 2023” list, Telefield proudly presents Scolioscan® that has won over 120 patents and has been successfully commercialised and installed in various countries. With advancements in artificial intelligence, the company has also introduced features such as automatic measurement and 3D visualisation, further enhancing detection accuracy and efficiency.

Amid the growth of Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem, Professor Zheng advocates for nurturing more successful technology startups to translate university research into marketable products that benefit societal health. He aims to enhance adolescent spinal health management through continued technological innovation, achieving radiation-free, high-precision detection and treatment.

Full Interview (Chinese only):

21st Century Business Herald

Watch this video to learn more about Professor Zheng’s research and innovation.

Read this to discover the technology behind this novel invention.