Prostate Carcinoma Detection Using Combined Ultrasound Elasticity and Tissue Strain-Hardening Imaging.

摘要

The underlying hypothesis of our study is that remote, non-invasive measurements of prostate elasticity are possible and may increase the detection and/or characterization of potentially malignant masses in the prostate. The purpose of this study is to develop ultrasound technology to produce high- resolution strain images of the prostate for remote evaluation of the strain dependent elastic (Young' s or shear) modulus. The main objective of our research program is to test the hypothesis that quantitative elasticity images of the prostate can be obtained using real-time ultrasound and manual deformation of the gland. To achieve this objective, we have developed speckle tracking algorithms and methods for strain and elasticity imaging of prostate. The developed imaging methods were tested using tissue-mimicking phantoms. Next, we will conduct experimental studies using tissue-containing phantoms, and well- defined clinical studies. At the conclusion of the study, a prototype of clinical imaging system will be designed.