Ultrasound interfacing device for tissue imaging
AssigneeiScience Interventional Corporation
InventorsDaniel Rachlin, Stanley Conston
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Abstract
A device (10) used with high frequency ultrasound provides a replaceable barrier between the ultrasound transducer and the tissues being imaged. The device (10) provides an acoustic pathway of minimal effect on the ultrasound signals, and furthermore provides for a safety barrier between a mechanical scanner and the tissues being imaged. The configuration of the device (10) allows it to function as a standoff for the ultrasound transducer to place the focus of the ultrasound beam at the desired depth of tissue for imaging. In addition, the device (10) may be sterilized and replaced as needed, providing sterile tissue contact surfaces. The device (10) has additional features, which are especially advantageous for diagnosis and surgery of the eye.
Claims18
An interface device for use with a high frequency ultrasound imaging system having a scan head with at least one transducer, the interface device being removably attachable to the scan head, the interface device comprising:
- a reservoir with a proximal end and a distal end, said proximal end being open and shaped to allow the transducer to transverse across an intended scan path within said reservoir, said distal end extending past a distal end of the transducer and including a scan window through which ultrasound energy is transmitted and received, wherein said reservoir maintains a fluid tight seal around the transducer,
- and a fluid coupling medium located within said reservoir.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.