Volumetric breast interrogation device

Abstract

A device for the rapid and complete interrogation of any portion of the body with specific attention to the breast and particularly the nipple-aerola area of the same for detection of abnormal, possibly cancerous, tissues within this normally difficult to examine area. The device includes an ultrasound transducer mounted in ultrasound conducting relationship to the area to be examined, positioned properly thereto and moved thereacross in a manner to provide a complete and systematic sweep of the area for total and rapid interrogation of the tissues within such area. The systematic sweep includes arcuate circumferential indexing of the transducer path moving radially across the breast. In this manner, the nipple-aerola area is repeatedly interrogated by each transducer travel across the breast. The transducer is also oscillated, normal to the path, as it travels along its path for cross sweep of tissue to insure total interrogation. The device may be hand held or may be suspended above the breast but maintaining transmissive contact therewith. Information gained through the interrogation is immediately revealed and detected in, "real time", instant visualization and the device includes means for physically marking the location of the abnormal tissue on the breast, with visually discernable indicia, making maximally efficient mass screening of the populus possible.