Patent ID: 10368970

Abstract:
An apparatus includes at least one transducer configured to (i) generate first ultrasonic signals and receive reflected first ultrasonic signals and (ii) generate second ultrasonic signals. The apparatus also includes a diagnostic ultrasound system configured to control generation of the first ultrasonic signals and to perform image processing using the reflected first ultrasonic signals in order to generate real-time images of tissue in an animal. The apparatus further includes a therapeutic ultrasound system configured to control generation of the second ultrasonic signals in order to ablate targeted tissue in the animal and sterilize the animal. The at least one transducer could include (i) a diagnostic transducer configured to generate the first ultrasonic signals and receive the reflected first ultrasonic signals and (ii) a therapeutic transducer configured to generate the second ultrasonic signals. A portable handheld housing could contain the at least one transducer.