The study highlights the impact of specular reflector noise on ultrasound attenuation estimation and evaluates methods to minimize this noise to improve imaging accuracy.
May bias attenuation estimates in clinical ultrasound; leaves open optimal noise-reduction algorithms for validation.
After reviewing the usual models proposed for the echographic response of soft tissues, we discuss the interaction between the ultrasonic wave and large size obstacles. Structures of this size, specular reflectors, can be found in tissues. The influence of such reflectors on in vivo attenuation measurements is detailed. We point out the importance of the specular echo noise originating from two kinds of reflectors: plane-like and vessel-like reflectors. We present a complete study of their influence on two different algorithms for attenuation estimates: the spectral centroid shift and the narrow band methods. Results are presented on stimulated data, a tissue-mimicking phantom and in vivo muscle data. Different procedures for minimizing the specular echo noise are also discussed.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Laugier et al. (1985) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: