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TAs: Süleyman Yasin Peker |
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The goal of this experiment is to introduce students to the Verasonics Vantage 32LE Ultrasound Research System and the fundamental principles of ultrasound technology. Students will learn about different ultrasound imaging modes and perform real-time data acquisition, focusing on Time-of-Flight (ToF) measurements of the common carotid artery (CCA). The experiment also covers flow measurement techniques, including Colour Doppler and Power Doppler imaging, allowing students to observe blood flow dynamics using ultrasound and image processing methods.
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1. Theory Overview
Introduction
This experiment involves the use of the Verasonics Vantage 32LE, a sophisticated ultrasound research system, to explore various aspects of ultrasound imaging and data acquisition. Participants will gain hands-on experience with different ultrasound imaging modes, including A-Mode, B-Mode, Colour Doppler, and Power Doppler, while understanding the applications of linear array, curvilinear/convex, and phased array transducers. The experiment will also cover real-time data acquisition using the Verasonics system, focusing on measuring Time-of-Flight values for echoes and analyzing the power spectrum of ultrasound signals in Doppler mode. This comprehensive approach will provide a deeper understanding of both the technical and practical aspects of ultrasound technology.
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Verasonics Inc. "Vantage 32 Ultrasound Research System User Guide." Verasonics, 2020.
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2. Pre-Lab Quiz
Quiz Date: xxxxxx
The quiz will cover the principles of ultrasound technology, imaging modes, and Doppler flow measurement.
Review Time-of-Flight measurement, ultrasound transducer functionality, and the basics of Color Doppler and Power Doppler imaging.
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3. Experimental Procedure
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Introduction to Verasonics Vantage 32LE Ultrasound Research System
Begin with an overview of the Verasonics Vantage 32LE system, including the main console, transducers, and the user interface.
Discuss the system's key features, such as its high-performance computing capabilities, customizable imaging modes, and real-time data acquisition.
Demonstrate how to power on the system, navigate the user interface, and set up the system for imaging.
Introduction to Ultrasound Transducers
Present the various transducer types available with the Verasonics system, including linear array, curvilinear, and phased array transducers.
Explain the physical principles behind each transducer type, focusing on beam formation and the impact of transducer geometry on imaging.
Describe the common applications of each transducer type:
Linear Array: High-resolution imaging of superficial structures (e.g., vascular studies).
Curvilinear Array: Deeper imaging, commonly used in abdominal imaging.
Phased Array: Cardiac imaging, due to its ability to scan through narrow acoustic windows.
Introduction to Ultrasound Imaging Modes
A-Mode (Amplitude Mode):
Explain the concept of A-mode imaging and its significance.
Demonstrate the use of A-mode to measure distances within tissues.
B-Mode (Brightness Mode):
Describe B-mode as the most common imaging mode for real-time 2D imaging.
Show how to set up and acquire B-mode images of the common carotid artery (CCA).
Discuss the interpretation of B-mode images, focusing on anatomical structures.
Colour Doppler Imaging:
Introduce the principles of Doppler ultrasound and how it measures blood flow velocity.
Demonstrate the setup and acquisition of Colour Doppler images, focusing on blood flow within the CCA.
Discuss the interpretation of Colour Doppler images, with emphasis on flow direction and velocity.
Spectral Doppler Imaging:
Explain the concept of Spectral Doppler and its use in quantifying blood flow velocity.
Demonstrate how to acquire a Spectral Doppler waveform and interpret the results, focusing on the CCA.
Real-Time Data Acquisition Using Verasonics
Set up the Verasonics system for real-time data acquisition in B-mode.
Position the selected transducer on the subject’s neck, over the CCA.
Adjust imaging parameters (e.g., depth, gain, focus) to optimize image quality.
Acquire and save real-time B-mode images of the CCA.
Acquire raw RF echo signal data.
Transition to Colour Doppler mode and acquire real-time flow images.
Save all acquired data for further analysis.
Time-of-Flight Measurement of Common Carotid Artery (CCA) Using Ultrasound and Image Processing
Use the B-mode images acquired previously to identify the CCA and measure the depth of the anterior and posterior walls.
Calculate the TOF for ultrasound pulses reflecting from these walls using the equations described in the theoretical background section.
Use image processing software to analyze the B-mode images and extract TOF data.
Discuss the significance of TOF measurements in clinical practice, such as assessing arterial wall thickness.
Flow Measurement and Colour Doppler Imaging Using Ultrasound
Set up the Verasonics system for Colour Doppler imaging of the CCA.
Acquire Colour Doppler images, ensuring that the flow is visualized across the vessel.
Use Spectral Doppler to obtain a waveform of the blood flow velocity.
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4. Data Collection
During the lab, observe the TA during experiment, and keep track of the experiments & recorded data.
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5. Post-Lab Report
Due Date: xxxxxx
Submit a report analyzing:
Comparison of the real-time ultrasound data with expected imaging outcomes and clinical applications.
Using the acquired raw RF echo signals, calculate the Time-of-Flight (TOF) values for the common carotid artery (CCA) walls and determine the artery diameter.
Plot and analyze the raw RF echo signals from three different channels, discussing the differences between the acquired echo signals.
Using the B-Mode images, calculate the artery diameter and compare the TOF values of the CCA walls with the results obtained from the raw RF echo signals.
From the acquired B-Mode images, identify frames representing possible systolic and diastolic phases. Calculate the change in artery diameter and discuss the subject's cardiovascular health, referencing relevant literature.
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