Design and fabrication of high-frequency wearable ultrasound 1-D and 2-D array for high-resolution elastography and vessel imaging

Ultrasonic imaging is a vital diagnostic modality that provides both anatomical and functional information, with the transducer array serving as the core component that determines resolution and sensitivity. High-frequency arrays (15–30 MHz) offer superior spatial resolution, making them indispensable for advanced biomedical applications such as elastography, vascular imaging, and super-resolution imaging. However, conventional commercial arrays typically operate between 5–10 MHz and are integrated into bulky handheld probes, limiting their flexibility and preventing continuous or long-term monitoring. To overcome these limitations, we designed and fabricated high-frequency wearable ultrasound arrays with optimized pitches: a 20 MHz linear array with a fine 1 λ pitch (∼75 μm) for improved lateral resolution, and a 10-MHz 2D array with a 2 λ pitch (∼300 μm), which represents the finest pitch currently achievable in the industry. These arrays combine wearability and high-frequency operation range, providing a powerful platform for high-resolution imaging and functional ultrasound studies.