Fiber optic-based miniature ultrasound device using photoacoustic probe
- Technology Benefits
- Multiple transducers and receivers on the same tipUltrathin fiber optic (thickness ~125 m)Fabrication of miniature sized probes possibleBiocompatible material ensuring safety topatients for in vivo use Ability to function in strongelectromagnetic environments Abilityto function in high temperature environments
- Detailed Technology Description
- A new, novel mechanism to systematically integrate an ultrasound receivingmodule and a generator using nanoparticles into a single optical fiber so thatit can steer the ultrasound towards a desired direction
- *Abstract
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- *Background
- Ultrasound transducers have been used invarious applications such as nondestructive testing, acoustic response analysisof vascular tissues, and medical imaging. Most ultrasound detection systems areelectrical ones based on piezoelectric, electromagnetic or capacitive effects.Typically, they have inherent limitations in achieving broad bandwidth, highfrequency, miniaturization and safety parameters. Alternatively, opticalultrasound technology has been proposed which addresses the limitations ofultrasound detection systems by providing simplified structure, reduced size,improved biocompatibility and higher frequency. However, the biggest drawbackof these optical probes is that they can only operate in simplex scheme, generatingor receiving ultrasound. Further, their performance parameters such assignal-to-noise ratio, resolution, penetration depth, focus point, anddirection, are preset during fabrication, limiting their useful capabilities.Photoacousticgeneration is an attractive alternative to generate ultrasound due to its broadbandwidth and high frequency capabilities. However, low ultrasound generationefficiency is the critical hurdle that restricts the practical applications ofminiature ultrasound probes.
- Country/Region
- USA
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