Melody Telerobotic Ultrasound System: A Global Innovation

Melody, AdEchoTech’s remote telerobotic ultrasound system, is helping to revolutionize telemedicine. As the world’s first solution enabling a remotely operated imaging exam, it allows ultrasounds to be performed with the same precision and reliability as on-site. It is based on the use of a remotely controlled articulated arm, assisted locally by an operator. Discover how this French-designed solution connects isolated communities (medical deserts, prisons, remote territories…) with ultrasound specialists without geographical limits.

Video: The World’s First Remote Ultrasound Robot is French

You can watch the video here: Le premier robot de télé-échographie au monde est français (Duration: 1:28).

Medical Imaging: The Benefits of Remote Robotic Ultrasound

CE certified under the new European MDR regulation, the Melody device offers a new way to access medical imaging. Its benefits are significant for all stakeholders.

Benefits for Patients

• Easier access to ultrasound in remote, rural, or underserved areas.
• Exams can be performed in various settings: nursing homes, health centers, prisons, mobile units…
• Fast and reliable diagnostics improve the quality and responsiveness of medical care.
• Reassuring and human experience, thanks to integrated videoconferencing enabling direct contact with the ultrasound specialist.

Benefits for Healthcare Facilities and Professionals

• Saves time for medical and paramedical teams.
• Seamlessly integrates into existing medical practices.
• Reduces costs and logistical constraints, especially in smaller facilities.
• Improves the attractiveness of institutions by increasing access to care.
• Reduces the need for specialist travel, optimizing human resources.
• Quick training: one hour is sufficient for on-site operators.
• More efficient care pathways and continuity of medical services, even without specialists present.

Read the testimony of Dr. Dahan, radiologist in Marseille, user of Melody via the AdEchoTech–TMF Santé partnership.

A Robust, Mobile, and Interoperable Technical Solution

• Operates with as little as 2 Mbit/s (ADSL, 3G+, 4G, satellite).
• Real-time, smooth transmission of images, commands, and video without loss of quality.
• Compatible with all ultrasound systems and standard videoconferencing platforms.
• Quick installation and intuitive use with minimal training.
• Mobile and ergonomic format, ideal for travel or temporary facilities.

Early MDR Certification

AdEchoTech anticipated the implementation of the new European MDR regulation by submitting the certification dossier as early as April 2022. Melody obtained its CE MDR marking in April 2023, well ahead of most devices still in transition, confirming its pioneering and leadership role in telemedicine.

International Recognition

In addition to CE MDR certification, Melody received FDA approval in 2017 for commercialization in the United States. With more than 60 institutions already equipped in France and abroad, Melody has established itself as a global reference in remote ultrasound.

A Bit of History: Melody and Space Exploration

Developed over more than 15 years of research in partnership with ESA, CNES, and several university hospitals, Melody was tested in 2017 aboard the International Space Station (ISS) during the Proxima mission led by astronaut Thomas Pesquet. The remote ultrasound was successfully performed, proving the reliability and robustness of the solution even in microgravity.

Scientific Validation: Clinically Proven Accuracy

Adult Study (2017)

18 adult patients underwent two ultrasounds (on-site conventional and remote telerobotic). Results: 92% concordance, comparable measurements, strong patient acceptability.

Pediatric Study (2023)

80 children aged 1–10 were examined. Results: excellent concordance for lung and cardiac exams, anomalies identified with the same reliability, better tolerance among children compared to traditional methods.

Many Clinical Applications

• General imaging: liver, kidneys, thyroid…
• Cardiology: heart failure monitoring, infarctions…
• Gynecology & Obstetrics: pelvic exams, pregnancy follow-up.
• Pediatrics: appendicitis, infections, pulmonary and cardiac conditions.
• Vascular / Doppler: thrombosis, venous and arterial flow.
• Urology: obstruction detection, hematuria assessments.

Melody does not replace the physician—it extends their capabilities. By enabling high-quality remote robotic ultrasound, it provides a concrete solution to today’s healthcare access challenges.

• Adams SJ, Burbridge BE, Badea A, Langford L, Vergara V, Bryce R, Bustamante L, Mendez IM, Babyn PS. Initial Experience Using a Telerobotic Ultrasound System for Adult Abdominal Sonography. Can Assoc Radiol J. 2017.
• C. Delestrain, F. Madhi, C. Jung, M. Shum, C. Vastel, E. Georget, R. Epaud. Cross-comparison of Telerobotic and Conventional Ultrasound in Children. Revue des Maladies Respiratoires Actualités, 2023.