Patent ID: 6077225
Filing Date: 2000-06-20
Classification: A61B,G01S

Abstract:
A method for providing improved ultrasound images of perfusion of a patient's tissue region of interest (ROI) through use of a contrast agent, wherein said tissue ROI is positioned so that ultrasound reflections received by an imaging transducer are affected by an obscuring region that is perfused with said contrast agent, said method comprising the steps of:a) administering said contrast agent to said patient's circulatory system so that said contrast agent reaches both said obscuring region and said tissue ROI;b) controlling said ultrasound transducer means to irradiate said contrast agent that enters said obscuring region, with sufficient ultrasound energy to substantially reduce an effect of said contrast agent upon ultrasound transmissions through said obscuring region; andc) operating said ultrasound transducer means to image said tissue ROI.