US 7,946,990 B2 · Ultrasound color flow imaging at high frame rates

Abstract

A method is provided to improve the frame-rate in color-flow ultrasound imaging using simultaneous spatially-distinct transmit beams with one or more frequency bands per transmit beam. Pulses of different center frequencies are used simultaneously in different (lateral and/or elevational) directions, thereby reducing the scanning time and improving the frame-rates. Optionally, a multi-modal pulse is used, and flow is estimated separately for the different frequencies. The flow estimates for these pulses are appropriately combined to improve low-velocity sensitivity and to reduce aliasing. A flow sample count with two or more different pulse repetition intervals can be used to further improve low-flow sensitivity and minimize aliasing.

Claims51

Dependent claims

A method for improving frame rate in color flow ultrasound imaging, the method comprising:

(a) generating a plurality of transmit ultrasound beams, each of the plurality of transmit ultrasound beams comprising a different center frequency and being directed at a different spatial location;
(b) receiving a plurality of receive ultrasound beams responsive to the plurality of transmit ultrasound beams;
and
(c) determining flow velocity based on the plurality of receive ultrasound beams;
wherein (c) comprises:
estimating flow velocity for each of the center frequencies;
and
scaling the estimated flow velocities according to a nominal center frequency.

5 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Ultrasound color flow imaging at high frame rates

Life of this patent

Ultrasound color flow imaging at high frame rates

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims51