Handheld Thermoacoustic Scanning System Based on a Linear-array Transducer
Zhong Ji1, Wenzheng Ding1, Fanghao Ye1
1MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Institute of Laser Life Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
Ultrasonic Imaging
|August 22, 2015
Summary
A new handheld microwave-induced thermoacoustic imaging system (MITIS) uses a linear-array detector for faster, real-time body scanning. This system offers a large field of view and avoids coupled fluids, improving clinical applicability.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Imaging
- Physics
Background:
- Traditional microwave-induced thermoacoustic imaging systems (MITISs) face limitations in space and time for body scanning due to circular-scanning modes.
- Linear-array detectors, common in medical ultrasound, offer a potential alternative for biological tissue imaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and experimentally evaluate a handheld MITIS utilizing a linear-array detector.
- To assess the system's resolution, real-time imaging capabilities, and overall imaging performance.
Main Methods:
- Development of a handheld MITIS incorporating a linear-array detector and a multiple data acquisition system.
- Experimental evaluation of vertical and lateral resolution.
- Real-time imaging of a moving object at 20 frames/second.
- Phantom experiments to investigate imaging capability.
Main Results:
- The developed handheld MITIS demonstrates rapid scanning with a large field of view.
- Real-time imaging at 20 frames/second was achieved.
- The system exhibited effective imaging capabilities in phantom experiments.
Conclusions:
- The handheld MITIS with a linear-array detector is suitable for clinical applications.
- Advantages include portability, no need for coupled fluids, and real-time imaging with a large field of view.
- This technology enhances the potential for MITIS in medical diagnostics.
