Specific Delay Multiply and Sum Beamforming for 2-D and 3-D Coherent Multi-Transducer Ultrasound imaging

Coherent multi-transducer ultrasound (CoMTUS) imaging enables the use of multiple arrays as one large effective aperture. This yields images with enlarged field-of-view, improved resolution, and higher SNR. However, creating a large but discontinuous effective aperture increases the grating and side lobe levels and generates cross-talk artifacts from the direct transmissions between arrays. These additional challenges can degrade the contrast of the images obtained through the classic Delay and Sum (DAS) beamforming algorithm. This study investigates the use of an alternative nonlinear beamforming algorithm, the Delay Multiply and Sum (DMAS), to improve contrast and reduce cross-talk artifacts in CoMTUS. We adapted the original DMAS beamforming algorithm to the specific effective aperture of CoMTUS and tested its performance in a coherent dual-array system for both 2-D and 3-D imaging. The comparison between images obtained through CoMTUS DMAS and DAS was investigated by both 2-D and 3-D simulations and experiments. DMAS was shown effective to lower the side lobes and the noise floor, thus improving the detectability of cystic lesions.

Automated summary

Coherent multi-transducer ultrasound imaging allows multiple arrays to be combined into one large effective aperture, improving field-of-view, resolution, and SNR. However, this can lead to increased grating and side lobe levels, as well as cross-talk artifacts. This study explores the use of a nonlinear beamforming algorithm, DMAS, to reduce these artifacts and improve contrast in CoMTUS imaging. Results show that DMAS effectively lowers side lobes and noise floor, enhancing the detectability of cystic lesions.