Ultrasonography using time- and temperature-sensitive variable adhesion coupling gels
US8961936B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 22, 2011 |
| Grant date | Feb 24, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 22, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC08G2650/58
- WIPO fieldPharmaceuticals
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
One aspect of the present invention relates to a method of ultrasonography, utilizing a gel comprising a reverse phase polymer which facilitates the transmission of high-frequency sound waves. Further, the inherent properties of the reverse phase polymer result in increased adhesion at higher temperatures, thereby helping to maintain the desired position of the ultrasound probe until the user intends to adjust the probe's position. In certain embodiments, the method is utilized in a medical procedure in which stability of an ultrasound probe or transducer in an intended desired position can improve the outcome or increase the efficiency of the procedure. In certain embodiments, the gel further comprises an additive to increase the ultimate adhesion of the gel. In still other embodiments, the gel can be used on the skin, on a protective sheath encasing an ultrasound probe, or between the sheath and the probe, or any or all of them.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.