A digital image analysis method for diagnostic ultrasound calibration

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Acoustics

Background:

• Current diagnostic ultrasound quality assurance relies on semi-quantitative, subjective protocols.
• Existing methods are dependent on operator judgment and machine settings, limiting precision.
• There is a need for objective, quantitative methods for ultrasound machine testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate novel acoustic test objects and protocols for quantitative assessment of diagnostic ultrasound parameters.
• To objectively measure axial and lateral resolution and geometric uniformity of the ultrasound field.
• To evaluate the influence of focal zone, signal gain, and probe distance on these parameters.

Main Methods:

• Design and implementation of two unique acoustic test objects.
• Development of quantitative protocols for measuring ultrasound field parameters.
• Testing with a low-frequency diagnostic ultrasound unit and a 7.5 MHz linear pulse-echo probe.
• Assessment of parameters under varying focal zones, signal gains, and distances.

Main Results:

• The developed test objects and protocols enable quantitative determination of axial and lateral resolution and geometric uniformity.
• The study identified the impact of focal zone, signal gain, and probe distance on measured parameters.
• Results highlight the necessity for adequate sensitivity in routine testing to ensure reliable measurements.

Conclusions:

• The novel quantitative approach offers a more objective and precise method for diagnostic ultrasound quality assurance.
• This technique has potential applications in industrial settings, such as quality assurance for total knee replacements.
• Further development aims to establish this ultrasound technique as an engineering design tool.