Hans Garman Torp

Hans Garman Torp is a Professor and Head of the Ultrasound Department Group at the Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging (ISB), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). His research focuses on medical ultrasound technology with specialization in Doppler blood flow measurement and beamforming techniques for clinical applications.

His primary research interests center on developing and validating ultrasound methodologies for continuous cerebral blood flow monitoring in infants, particularly those with congenital heart disease. Key innovations include the NeoDoppler system for real-time hemodynamic assessment during cardiac surgeries and interventions, 3D Doppler imaging for valvular regurgitation quantification, and hands-free carotid Doppler devices for resuscitation monitoring. His work bridges engineering principles with clinical neonatology, cardiology, and emergency medicine to address critical gaps in hemodynamic monitoring.

Analysis of his recent publications (2023-2025) reveals three dominant trends: (1) Translational development of ultrasound technologies for pediatric cardiac care, particularly in congenital heart disease interventions; (2) Application of 3D Doppler and high-frame-rate imaging for precise quantification of blood flow in cardiac valves and cerebral vessels; and (3) Emergency medicine innovations focused on hands-free hemodynamic monitoring during CPR and cardiac arrest scenarios. These works demonstrate consistent collaboration with clinical teams at St. Olavs Hospital and the Norwegian University Hospital Trust.

Torp has supervised doctoral candidates including Martin Leth-Olsen (2025 thesis on cerebral Doppler monitoring in congenital heart disease) and Jahn Frederik Grue (2020 thesis on mitral annular motion indices). His research group receives funding from the Norwegian Research Council and the Central Norway Regional Health Authority, supporting projects like the NeoDoppler system development and validation studies for novel ultrasound devices in critical care settings.

The Ultrasound Department Group at ISB operates as a multidisciplinary team integrating engineers, cardiologists, neonatologists, and anesthesiologists. Current projects focus on AI-enhanced Doppler analysis, miniaturized ultrasound devices for point-of-care use, and longitudinal studies of cerebral hemodynamics in neonatal intensive care. The group maintains strong ties with the NTNU Center for Digital Life Norway and collaborates internationally with institutions including Stanford University and Karolinska Institutet.