Patent ID: 6066096
Filing Date: 2000-05-23
Classification: A61B,Y10S

Abstract:
A real time three dimensional ultrasound imaging probe apparatus configured to be placed inside a body, the apparatus comprising:an elongated body having proximal and distal ends;an ultrasonic transducer phased array connected to and positioned on the distal end of the elongated body, wherein the ultrasonic transducer phased array is configured to emit ultrasonic energy for volumetric scanning from the distal end of the elongated body and receive reflected ultrasonic energy, and wherein the ultrasonic transducer phased array comprises a plurality of sites occupied by ultrasonic transducer elements, wherein at least one ultrasonic transducer element is absent from at least one of the sites to define an off-center interstitial site in the ultrasonic transducer phased array; anda tool, that extends from the proximal end of said elongated body to said off-center interstitial site.