Diagnostic medical ultrasound image and system for contrast agent imaging
US6645147B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 25, 1998 |
| Grant date | Nov 11, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 25, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B8/488
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and system for contrast agent imaging with a catheter transducer is provided. The catheter transducer may comprise an intra-vascular, intra-cardiac or other transducer for insertion into or through a small space. The catheter transducer is inserted within the heart or other portion of a patient. Contrast agents, such as micro-spheres, are injected into the patient. Using the catheter transducer, ultrasonic acoustic energy is transmitted, and reflected energy is received. The reflected energy is responsive to the contrast agents. An image processor generates an image of the tissue and contrast agents as a function of the reflected energy. The image provides an indication of perfusion. Alternatively, the ultrasound system calculates perfusion. By generating intra-vascular images or data, interference from other tissues is avoided. Therefore, the perfusion information obtained may have higher resolution. Images with better resolution better assist doctors in medical diagnosis.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.