Patent ID: 10674920

Abstract:
A method of imaging a region of interest of a body, the body having sites outside the region which can produce image clutter. The method includes: generating a first pattern of vibration within the body to produce a localised first displacement at the region and localised first displacements at the clutter-producing sites; while the body undergoes the first displacements, generating ultrasound signals from the region, and detecting the ultrasound signals to generate a first image of the region; generating a second pattern of vibration within the body to produce a localised second displacement at the region and localised second displacements at the clutter-producing sites; while the body undergoes the second displacements, generating ultrasound signals from the region, and detecting the ultrasound signals to generate a second image of the region; and combining the first and second images to produce a third image of the region. The first and second vibration patterns are selected such that the first and second displacements combine in the production of the third image to reduce or eliminate the clutter in the third image relative to the clutter in the first and second images.