Real-time Ultrasound B-Mode Image Simulator 

Advantages

• Simulates deformable tissue on medical imaging for a dynamic and realistic simulation experience
• User can alter simulated environment realistically, such as manipulating a probe or inserting a needle by modeling forces
• Real-time frame rates, faster than CT/MR based solutions

Technology Details

Medical simulators are becoming a more popular option to quickly increase the skill set of medical residents by allowing them to practice on a large number of cases before dealing directly with patients.  More specifically, ultrasound has become an area of interest for the development of training simulators due to the wide spread use of ultrasound procedures and the skill needed to achieve useful images.  Ultrasound simulators strive to offer the most realistic experience to their users so that the skills learned through practice will translate well in the hospital setting. 

However, the current simulators have yet to create the desired level or realism in the models.  Critical problems are the length of time for computation of simulated images, poor characterization of tissue properties and lack of ability to cope with tissue deformations in response to user-generated stimulation. 

SoundSim™ provides real-time image interpolation inside elastically deformable tissue models allowing users a tool that reacts to pressure and can realistically visualize insertion of medical instruments such as needles.  As a result, medical simulators implementing SoundSim™ will offer a more realistic experience to the user.  For example, the technology will better enable simulated training for breast biopsy, deep vein thrombosis scanning or brachytherapy seed implantation.

Although the technology has been developed and tested for ultrasound B-mode imaging, the deformable algorithms can be applied to other imaging modalities, such as CT or MRI.