Patent ID: 8827907
Filing Date: 2014-09-09
Classification: A61B,G01S

Abstract:
1. A method of operating an ultrasound system to produce an ultrasound image, the method comprising: generating ultrasound at a frequency of at least 20 megahertz (20 MHz) using an ultrasound scanhead that includes— a position encoder configured to produce a signal indicative of an angular position of the elongate member as the elongate member rotates about the pivot axis for use in determining the position of the transducer along its reciprocating arcuate path; transmitting at least a portion of the generated ultrasound from the transducer into a subject; receiving ultrasound energy from the subject; oscillating the transducer along the reciprocating arcuate path at a frequency of at least 7.5 Hz; receiving position signals from the position encoder indicating the angular position of the transducer through its range of motion along the reciprocating arcuate path; and producing the image using the received ultrasound energy and the position signals.