Diagnostic imaging of the nonlinear acoustic parameter B/A

Abstract

One of the most promising applications of ultrasound in medicine, currently in the experimental trial stage, is imaging based on the nonlinear propagation parameter B/A. Evidence is currently emerging that B/A is related to the structural characteristics of tissue and information on B/A variations in tissue may provide a new avenue in diagnostic ultrasound tissue characterization. This presentation will briefly outline the theoretical background and operation principles of real‐time nonlinear parameter imaging systems, including both pulsed and cw devices. Subsequently, the differences between conventional, real‐time B‐scan imaging and the B/A imaging will be presented. Different nonlinear imaging algorithms, including those for the more desirable pulse‐echo mode of operation, will be discussed and the fundamental limitations of this novel imaging facility will be reviewed. Possible modifications in the currently used B/A imaging procedures to improve B/A picture quality will also be discussed, and the potential applications of B/A imaging in ultrasound tissue characterization will be pointed out.