Lesion Imaging and Target Detection in Multiple Scattering (LITMUS) Media

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Acoustics
• Biophysics

Background:

• Standard ultrasound imaging fails in complex media due to scattering.
• Aberrations and loss of linearity hinder lesion detection.
• Multiple scattering of ultrasound waves degrades image quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel ultrasound algorithm, LITMUS, for imaging lesions and targets in multiple scattering environments.
• To leverage multiple scattered ultrasound signals for improved detection and characterization.
• To overcome limitations of conventional techniques in heterogeneous media.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an ultrasound linear array for data acquisition.
• Embedded hypoechoic (lesions) and hyperechoic (targets) objects in simulated and experimental scattering media.
• Extracted incoherent backscattered intensity and tracked diffusive halo growth over time.
• Combined signal analysis with a depression detection algorithm.

Main Results:

• The LITMUS algorithm successfully predicted the location and size of lesions/targets.
• Demonstrated high-fidelity detection despite strong heterogeneity and multiple scattering.
• Identified sudden changes in diffusive halo growth as indicators of lesions/targets.

Conclusions:

• The LITMUS algorithm offers a robust solution for ultrasound imaging in highly scattering media.
• This method effectively utilizes multiple scattered waves for lesion and target detection.
• The findings advance ultrasound capabilities for complex biological and material structures.