Combined reflection and transmission ultrasound imaging.

Abstract

Reflex transmission imaging (RTI) is a method for producing orthographic ultrasound transmission images, which depict focal-plane transmittance, by using a single transducer rather than an opposed transducer pair. RTI can be implemented using modified B-scan equipment, and a bidirectional scan probe. It has the further advantage of enabling simultaneous generation of integrated reflection C-scan (IRCS) images, which depict backscatter from the focal plane, in perfect registration with the transmission images. We describe these methods, demonstrate a new process by which the reflection and transmission images can be combined to produce a new image of superior quality, and demonstrate the applicability of this technique to improved visualization of kidney stones, with potential application to lithotripsy.

• Authors: P S Green, J S Ostrem, T K Whitehurst
• Journal: Ultrasound in medicine & biology (Ultrasound Med Biol) Vol. 17 Issue 3 Pg. 283-9 ( 1991) ISSN: 0301-5629 [Print] England
• PMID: 1887513 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)

Topics

• Humans
• Image Enhancement (methods)
• Kidney Calculi (diagnostic imaging, therapy)
• Lithotripsy (methods)
• Ultrasonography (methods)