A Novel Ultrasonic Imaging Method for Remote Palpation of Breast Tissues
Abstract
A method of Remote Palpation, which may allow the detection of small, stiff lesions lying deep within the breast, is under investigation. In this method, acoustic radiation force is applied to localized (approximately 2 mm 3) regions of tissue, and the resulting tissue displacements are mapped using ultrasonic correlation based methods. Tissue displacement is inversely proportional to tissue stiffness, thus a stiffer region of tissue exhibits smaller displacements than a more compliant region. The resulting displacement maps are directly correlated with tissue stiffness. We have developed finite element models of tissue mechanical and thermal response to acoustic radiation force. We have developed phantom fabrication facilities, and mechanical property measurement facilities, with which calibrated tissue phantoms have been developed. We have implemented acoustic Remote Palpation using multiple forcing locations in such phantoms, which resulted in high resolution, high contrast images of local variations in material stiffness. Finally, we have obtained preliminary clinical Remote Palpation data.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA389917
Entities
People
- Gregg E. Trahey
Organizations
- Duke University