Optical SonographyTM, a new method of diagnostic imaging

Abstract

The characterization of Optical SonographyTM has been measured and is reported. This new soft tissue imaging method, which utilizes the capabilites of acoustical holography, passes a plane wave of ultrasound through the tissue which imposes phase and amplitude information on the wave. This wave then carries information of the three-dimensional structure of the soft tissue being imaged. When combined with an ultrasonic reference wave, an acoustical hologram is formed which is reconstructed with coherent light (hence the name Optical SonographyTM) to provide a real time image of the soft tissue. With Optical SonographyTM the image resolution is determined by the wavelength of sound interacting with points in the tissue rather than the focus size of the ultrasound as in the reflective mode. Thus theoretical limits of resolution are achievable; comparative resolution images will be presented. In addition, since over 99% of the ultrasound intensity passes through soft tissue interfaces, greater sensitivity is achieved. Imaging results using Optical SonographyTM will be presented.