Abstract: A method and devices in accordance with the present invention enable detecting regions of breast tissue having modulus of elasticity different from that of surrounding glandular tissue using a pressure sensing array. Detection of breast tumors is based on analyzing features of the stress pattern on the surface of an examined tissue that appear as a deviation from a stress pattern for a relatively homogeneous normal tissue. In one embodiment of the invention, a pressure sensor array, data acquisition circuit, and a microprocessor are mounted in a hand held pad. Detection of nodules is achieved by analyzing the dynamic and spatial features of the pressure pattern while the probe pressed to the breast is periodically moved transversely to the ribs. The ribs play a role as an amplifier of the measured effect. The device will be able to objectively detect the presence of lumps in a breast and provide a warning signal.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a pressure sensor array, data acquisition circuit, and a microprocessor are mounted in a hand held pad. Detection of nodules is achieved by analyzing the dynamic and spatial features of the pressure pattern while the probe pressed to the breast is periodically moved transversely to the ribs. The ribs play a role as an amplifier of the measured effect. The device will be able to objectively detect the presence of lumps in a breast and provide a warning signal. Another embodiment of the invention is a clinical device for imaging the mechanical structure of the examined breast and diagnosing diseases accompanied by changes in the elasticity of breast tissue. This embodiment is made up of an electronically controlled mechanical scanning unit incorporated into a patient support bed. The mechanical scanning unit includes a compression mechanism and positioning system, a local pressure source located opposite a pressure sensor array, and electronic control and interface circuitry.

Abstract: A device and method for visualizing geometrical and mechanical parameters of prostates and diagnosing prostate diseases using a pressure sensor array is disclosed. A probe having an articulated tip for insertion in the rectum applies digital pressure to the prostate similar to that applied by a human finger. A pressure and position/orientation sensor is provided in the tip. Signals from the sensors are used to calculate a virtual pattern of a property such as stress and strain. The virtual and theoretical patterns are compared and differences are used to indicate the presence and location of differing elasticity regions of the tissues being examined and to display an image of the examined prostate.

Abstract: A method and a device for noninvasively identifying a region of the tissue having a different elasticity than the surrounding tissue by simultaneously measuring strain and stress patterns in the tissue portion using an ultrasonic imaging system combined with a pressure sensing array. In a particular embodiment, a pressure sensing array made of a sound transparent film inserted between the ultrasonic scanner probe and the tissue measures pressure pattern on the surface of the tissue when the tissue portion is deformed while the scanner detects internal strain pattern. The ultrasonic scanner probe with the attached pressure sensing array serves as a pressure exerting member causing a deformation of the tissue and creating stress and strain in the tissue portion.