Imaging catheters for volumetric intraluminal ultrasound imaging
US6572551B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 11, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jun 3, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 11, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S128/916
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A real time three dimensional ultrasound imaging probe apparatus is configured to be placed inside a body. The apparatus comprises an elongated body having proximal and distal ends with an ultrasonic transducer phased array connected to and positioned on the distal end of the elongated body. The ultrasonic transducer phased array is positioned to emit and receive ultrasonic energy for volumetric forward scanning from the distal end of the elongated body. The ultrasonic transducer phased array includes a plurality of sites occupied by ultrasonic transducer elements. At least one ultrasonic transducer element is absent from at least one of the sites, thereby defining an interstitial site. A tool is positioned at the interstitial site. In particular, the tool can be a fiber optic lead, a suction tool, a guide wire, an electrophysiological electrode, or an ablation electrode. Related systems are also discussed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.