Multi-Probe Vector Velocity Estimation in Deep and Large Regions of Interest: A Simulation Study

Area of Science:

• Ultrasound imaging
• Biomedical engineering
• Medical diagnostics

Background:

• Current vector velocity measurement techniques are limited to superficial vessels due to probe aperture constraints.
• Accurate blood flow velocity assessment in deep and large vessels remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a high frame rate method using multiple array probes for accurate blood velocity measurements in deep and large regions.
• To overcome the limitations of superficial vessel imaging in current techniques.

Main Methods:

• Utilized multiple array probes transmitting defocused beams in a sequential activation pattern.
• Estimated phase shifts and combined them using a least square error approach to derive velocity vectors.
• Evaluated performance in 2-D and 3-D simulations using linear and matrix sparse array probes.

Main Results:

• Achieved good estimations for both the magnitude (average RMSE of 11.9% of vmax) and direction (average RMSE of 2.3° and 8.0°) of velocity vectors.
• Demonstrated wide area/volume coverage for vector velocity frames, reaching depths up to 80 mm.
• Validated the method's precision and accuracy in simulated 2-D and 3-D scenarios.

Conclusions:

• Multi-probe configurations enable accurate and precise 2-D or 3-D flow velocity measurements in large, deep regions of interest.
• The method holds potential for clinical applications, such as velocity estimation in deep abdominal vessels like the aorta.