Emerging Technology: Enhanced B-mode Tissue Characterization

Ultrasound imaging continues to break through scientific and engineering ceilings that have formerly restricted the type and quality of information available. Limited by the temporal, data acquisition, and processing constraints inherent in traditional beamforming technology, ultrasound systems did not have the capacity to acquire and process large amounts of raw acoustic data fast enough to move beyond standard imaging modalities. While traditional beamforming capabilities can provide high-quality and high-resolution images, sensitive Doppler modes, and other advanced imaging applications, there have been limitations to creating new applications that use the information contained within the received acoustic data set. This has all changed with the introduction of ultrasound imaging systems that acquire and process significantly more acoustic data quickly. Upgraded, state-of-the-art digital signal processing (DSP) capabilities have made new imaging possibilities, including enhanced B-mode tissue characterization. This modality helps to differentiate areas within a region of interest based on the unique acoustic characteristics of the tissues insonated.