Spectral analysis for ultrasonic tissue characterization

Summary

The authors developed a computerized ultrasonic tissue characterization system for clinical ophthalmology. In animal experiments and clinical trials, it was possible to differentiate retinal detachment from various intraocular haemorrhagic membrane.

Mathematical evaluation techniques to determine the calibrated power spectrum of reflected ultrasonic echoes from tissue involved by various ocular diseases could be used with a clinical computer system to objectively classify retinal detachment and vitreous haemorrhagic membrane. Tissue structures could be acoustically stained in B-mode images to define the specific anatomic and structural properties that provide the acoustic differentiations. These data were obtained under in vivo conditions and allowed a non-invasive differentiation of intraocular membranes in a way not previously possible, aiding in the definitive diagnosis of intraocular diseases, as well as in the planning and monitoring of treatment.