Ultrasonic systems and methods for fluid perfusion and flow rate measurement
US6186951A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 26, 1999 |
| Grant date | Feb 13, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 26, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01S15/899
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Fluid flow rate and perfusion rate are measured using ultrasound techniques by introducing a contrast agent into a fluid stream and then selectively modifying the contrast agent particles within a target area by the application of a focused pulse of relatively low frequency ultrasonic energy, thus creating a zone of reduced backscatter in the target area. The restoration of the zone of reduced backscatter or the movement of the zone of reduced backscatter is monitored, preferably using high frequency ultrasound, to determine the flow rate or perfusion rate of the fluid. Spectral parameters of ultrasound return signals are evaluated to determine an estimate of contrast agent concentration and/or mean particle size.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.