Combined reflection and transmission ultrasound imaging.
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.
Green
P S
PS
SRI International, Menlo Park, CA 94025.
Ostrem
J S
JS
Whitehurst
T K
TK
D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods*; D007669:Kidney Calculi / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy; D008096:Lithotripsy / Q000379:methods*; D014463:Ultrasonography / Q000379:methods