Doppler ultrasound for identifying material properties of a carpal tunnel anatomy
US8216148B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 2, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jul 10, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 9, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B5/6824
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
This disclosure describes methods for detecting early stages of disease, in particular carpal tunnel syndrome, by using cooperative ultrasound techniques. In a particular embodiment, a grayscale ultrasonogram may be used to detect local anatomical features within the carpal tunnel by physically moving a tendon and identifying the corresponding feature on the ultrasonogram display device. A high-resolution color Doppler ultrasound device may then be used to interrogate features of anatomy surrounding the tendon for disease. In a particular embodiment, the color Doppler ultrasound device may be used to measure the velocities of the tendon and surrounding anatomy, in particular the sub-synovial connective tissue; the resultant data may be used to quantify certain anatomical anomalies, indicative or non-indicative of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.