Review of Linear-Array-Transducer-Based Volumetric Ultrasound Imaging Techniques and Their Biomedical Applications

Ultrasound imaging is one of the most widespread biomedical imaging techniques thanks to its advantages such as being non-invasive, portable, non-ionizing, and cost-effective. Ultrasound imaging generally provides two-dimensional cross-sectional images, but the quality and interpretative ability vary based on the experience of the examiner, leading to a lack of objectivity and accuracy. To address these issues, there is a growing demand for three-dimensional ultrasound imaging. Among the various types of transducers used to obtain three-dimensional ultrasound images, this paper focuses on the most standardized probe, the linear array transducer, and provides an overview of the system implementations, imaging results, and applications of volumetric ultrasound imaging from the perspective of scanning methods. Through this comprehensive review, future researchers will gain insights into the advantages and disadvantages of various approaches to three-dimensional imaging systems using linear arrays, providing direction and applicability for system configuration and application.