Work

Handheld real-time volumetric imaging of the spine: technology development

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: Technical difficulties, poor image quality and reliance on pattern identifications represent some of the drawbacks of two-dimensional ultrasound imaging of spinal bone anatomy. To overcome these limitations, this study sought to develop real-time volumetric imaging of the spine using a portable handheld device. The device measured 19.2 cm × 9.2 cm × 9.0 cm and imaged at 5 MHz centre frequency. 2D imaging under conventional ultrasound and volumetric (3D) imaging in real time was achieved and verified by inspection using a custom spine phantom. Further device performance was assessed and revealed a 75-min battery life and an average frame rate of 17.7 Hz in volumetric imaging mode. The results suggest that real-time volumetric imaging of the spine is a feasible technique for more intuitive visualization of the spine. These results may have important ramifications for a large array of neuraxial procedures.

Source: Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology

DOI: 10.3109/03091902.2013.877989

Authors: Mohamed Tiouririne, Sarah Nguyen, John A. Hossack, Kevin Owen, F. William Mauldin

Institutions: University of Virginia, Rivanna Medical (United States)

Language: English

Topic: Ultrasound in Clinical Applications

Subfield: Critical Care and Intensive Care Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering