3D Elasticity Imaging via Sparse Angular Plane Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic imaging techniques for obtaining three-dimensional tissue elasticity data are time-consuming, limiting their usefulness for real-time monitoring during procedures like RF ablation, and are costly due to the high manufacturing costs of 2D ultrasound array transducers.
Innovation Solution
A method for rapidly acquiring three-dimensional elasticity images using an ultrasonic probe assembly that directs an ultrasound beam along a central axis and receives echoes from angularly spaced planes, allowing for sparse data acquisition and reconstruction, compatible with both quasi-static and dynamic elastography, and employing multidimensional interpolation for smooth reconstructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple registered images are obtained at each location using conventional ultrasonic imaging techniques, then three-dimensional elasticity data can be acquired, but the data acquisition time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complete 3D elasticity data acquisition into multiple 2D plane measurements taken at different angular orientations. Instead of acquiring all data at every location, the system divides the volume into angular sectors and acquires planes only at specific angles (e.g., every 45 degrees), significantly reducing the total number of measurements required while maintaining 3D reconstruction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by acquiring only a subset of the full set of elastic modulus measurements that would be required for complete 3D coverage. By obtaining elastic modulus values at selected angular positions rather than continuous 360-degree coverage, the system achieves sufficient data for 3D reconstruction while reducing acquisition time by approximately 75%.
2Productivity
If 2D ultrasound array transducers are used to acquire three-dimensional data sets directly, then data acquisition speed improves, but manufacturing cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the 3D imaging function into multiple 2D plane acquisitions using a conventional linear array transducer. Instead of requiring a complex 2D array transducer, the system performs sequential 2D scans at different angular orientations and reconstructs the 3D volume computationally, thereby using cheaper, more manufacturable hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the angular orientation dimension to the traditional 2D ultrasound imaging. By acquiring 2D planes at multiple angular positions around the probe and combining them through 3D reconstruction algorithms, the system achieves volumetric imaging capability without requiring a 2D array transducer, thus avoiding the high manufacturing costs associated with such complex sensors.
3Measurement precision
If conventional ultrasonic imaging techniques are used for three-dimensional elasticity imaging, then complete elasticity data can be obtained, but the process is too slow for real-time monitoring during RF ablation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent obtains sufficient elasticity data for real-time monitoring by acquiring measurements at selected angular positions rather than complete continuous coverage. The partial data set from fewer angular orientations is adequate for 3D reconstruction and real-time feedback during ablation, achieving the required imaging speed while maintaining clinical utility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the elasticity imaging process into discrete angular sampling points rather than continuous scanning. This allows the system to acquire essential elasticity information at key orientations and reconstruct the full 3D picture computationally, enabling real-time monitoring capability during dynamic RF ablation procedures.
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 rapid and accurate three-dimensional elasticity imaging suitable for real-time monitoring of ablation processes, reducing data acquisition time while maintaining necessary resolution for identifying ablation region boundaries, and is cost-effective by using a sparse data acquisition pattern.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic probe assembly adapted to direct an ultrasound beam into an elastic material and receive ultrasonic echoes
Implementation Method 2
the velocity of the resulting compression/shear waves is measured, for example, using ultrasonic Doppler detection
Implementation Method 3
The shear waves may be induced, for example, by reciprocation of an ablation probe. The speed of the shear wave is dependent on tissue elasticity
Implementation Method 4
Ionic heating of the tissue induced by radiofrequency fields in the tissue kills tumor cells and produces a hardened lesion
Data Source
AI summary
High-speed three-dimensional reconstruction of elasticity data is obtained by acquiring a sparse set of data in planes sharing a common axis line and angularly arrayed about the axis line. The axis line may be an RF ablation probe and the reconstruction may enforce a circumferential smoothness in the reconstruction about the probe, as is compatible with an ablation volume.