These 9 startups belong in a futurist’s guide to health technology (infographic)

A futurist map of disruptive healthcare technology of the future offers a stunning projection of what will be possible. Whats interesting is that much of it is already beginning to take shape in some form or another.

Developed by trend forecasting studio Envision Technologys futurist Michell Zappa with Patrick Schlafer and Colin Popell of Prokalkeo, and featured in FastCompany, the themes focus on developments in telemedicine, augmentation, diagnostics, regeneration and biogerontology over the next 30 years.

Here are nine startups that embody some of the disruptive healthcare technology included in Zappas awesome innovation orb. Wed also like to get your thoughts on other startup companies you think belong in this guide. Post them in the comment space below and tell us what theyre doing to disrupt healthcare.

Diagnostics

UE Lifesciences is a breast cancer diagnostics startup that uses fingertip sensors to detect tumors. Its Intelligent Breast Exam can distinguish between normal breast tissue and a tumor. Breast cancers are stiffer and less mobile than the surrounding tissue, according to a paper documenting the device. It provides a non-invasive, radiation-free alternative to mammograms.

Regeneration

What could be more futuristic than growing skin from plants? Invasion of the Body Snatchers, anyone? Not quite. Eqalix is working with three Philadelphia institutions to grow synthetic skin from soybean protein. CEO Joseph P. Connell sees applications for diabetic foot ulcers, bed sores, trauma and burns. Connell said the synthetic skin addresses the biggest problem in wound healing closing a large wound surface. Also, by using synthetic grafts, there wont be a need to track down and harvest donor arteries in the patients body or from another person. The technologies were developed by researchers and clinicians from Drexel University, the University of Pennsylvania and The Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia.

Augmentation

Ekso Bionics makes exoskeletons for people who have been paralyzed from spinal cord injuries. Heres how it works: electrical motors move the frames joints, mimicking the actions of muscles. The technology has been licensed to Lockheed Martin for soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

Telemedicine

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These 9 startups belong in a futurist’s guide to health technology (infographic)