Real-Time Echo Intensity Analysis for Ultrasound Probe Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasound imaging techniques lack real-time quantification of echo intensity, requiring post-examination analysis with external software, leading to inaccurate and time-consuming results, and hinder optimal probe angle and pressure adjustments during examinations.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that processes RF data in real-time to generate B-mode and echo intensity data simultaneously, providing live feedback and graphical interfaces for adjusting probe angle and position to optimize data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultrasound images are processed externally after examination, then echo intensity quantification can be performed, but the process is slow and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the echo intensity quantification function into the ultrasound scanner itself by integrating an echo intensity processor that operates in parallel with the image processor. This allows simultaneous generation of both B-mode images and quantified echo intensity data during the examination, eliminating the need for post-processing and external software analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs echo intensity quantification in real-time during the ultrasound examination rather than after. The echo intensity processor continuously calculates quantified values from RF data as it is acquired, providing immediate results that guide probe adjustments and optimize data collection during the procedure.
2Ease of operation
If real-time echo intensity data is generated, then probe angle and position can be optimized during examination, but data processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data processing function into two independent parallel processors: an image processor for B-mode image generation and an echo intensity processor for quantified data generation. Both processors receive RF data from the probe but process it independently using different algorithms, allowing real-time optimization without overwhelming a single processing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The echo intensity processor acts as an intermediary that converts raw RF data into clinically useful quantified metrics that directly guide probe optimization. By providing simplified numerical feedback rather than requiring complex image analysis, it enables clinicians to optimize probe angle and position more easily during the examination.
3Measurement precision
If external software is used for image analysis, then echo intensity can be measured, but accuracy and reproducibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the quantification function directly into the scanner's processing chain, ensuring that echo intensity data is derived from the same RF signals used for image generation. This integrated approach eliminates variability introduced by external software and ensures consistent, reproducible measurements across different examinations and operators.
4Measurement precision
If post-examination analysis is performed, then quantification can be completed, but clinical information quality is reduced due to delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs quantification in real-time during the examination, allowing clinicians to immediately use the data to guide probe adjustments and optimize data collection. This preliminary action ensures that the highest quality clinical information is captured during the procedure itself, rather than relying on potentially suboptimal post-examination analysis.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate, reproducible, and timely quantification of echo intensity, allowing clinicians to optimize probe settings during examinations, reducing the need for post-processing and improving clinical information quality.
Implementation Method 1
Medical ultrasound imaging is a diagnostic imaging technique that directs acoustic waves toward body structures and detects reflections of those acoustic waves
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for ultrasound imaging include obtaining RF data using an ultrasound probe and processing the RF data in-parallel to generate B-mode data and echo intensity data during ultrasound examination of a patient. The RF data is analyzed in real-time to provide a user with live ultrasound image and echogenicity analytics. Based on the echogenicity analytics, the user may reposition the ultrasonic probe to adjust and select an optimal probe angle to ensure reproducible results. Providing live RF data allows the user to assess the health of nerves and muscles in real-time and make dynamic decisions on further exams to perform during the same office visit.