[Genetic algorithm application to multi-focus patterns of 256-element phased array for focused ultrasound surgery]

Area of Science:

• Acoustics and Ultrasound Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering
• Computational Physics

Context:

• Focused ultrasound surgery (FUSS) utilizes phased arrays for non-invasive therapeutic applications.
• Accurate control of acoustic energy deposition is critical for FUSS efficacy and safety.
• Existing methods for multi-foci steering require refinement for complex therapeutic patterns.

Purpose:

• To present a novel genetic algorithm (GA) combined with a sound field calculation approach for precise multi-foci steering in spherical-section phased arrays.
• To describe an in-house manufactured 256-element phased array system for focused ultrasound surgery.
• To validate the proposed GA and sound field calculation method through simulations and experimental analysis.

Summary:

• The paper details a genetic algorithm and sound field calculation method for a 256-element phased array focused ultrasound surgery system.
• Simulations covered on-axis, off-axis, axis-symmetric six-focus, and axis-asymmetric four-focus patterns.
• Experimental results on organic glass and phantom validated the system's ability to accurately steer three-dimensional foci.

Impact:

• Confirms the applicability of the GA and sound field calculation approach for precise 3D multi-foci steering in focused ultrasound surgery.
• Demonstrates the potential for enhanced therapeutic precision and customization in non-invasive treatments.
• Provides a validated computational framework for designing and controlling advanced phased array systems for biomedical applications.