Focused Rotational IVUS Transducer Using Single Crystal Composite Material

A method of forming an ultrasound transducer for use in IVUS imaging systems, the method comprising:

• etching a single crystal;
• placing a polymer layer on the etched single crystal to form a single crystal composite (SCC);
• forming the polymer layer to a first thickness;
• placing a first electrode on a first side of the SCC;
• forming the SCC to a second thickness;
• placing a second electrode on a second side of the SCC;
• and
• placing the SCC on a molded tip.

An IVUS imaging system, comprising:

• an elongate device sized and shaped for insertion into a vessel of a patient, the elongate device including an ultrasound transducer that includes:
• a single crystal composite (SCC) layer;
• a front electrode;
• and
• a back electrode;
• wherein:
• the SCC layer includes pillars made of a single crystal piezo-electric material;
• the pillars are embedded in a polymer matrix;
• and
• the SCC layer has a concave surface and an opposing convex surface.