Abstract: An ultrasonic emulsion fluid is provided for use in ultrasonic probes of medical ultrasonic diagnostic systems, in which the fluid couples ultrasonic energy between a transducer and human tissue. The emulsion outer phase is a water and velocity enhancer mixture. Suitable enhancers include alcohols such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, or glycerol. The suspended phase of the emulsion is an oil phase such as a silicone fluid. The silicone fluid droplets in the emulsion exhibit an average size which provides the emulsion with desired attenuation characteristics over a given band of ultrasonic frequencies.

Abstract: An ultrasound phantom is provided which simulates human tissue containing tissue masses viable for biopsy. The phantom is used to demonstrate or teach the performance of a biopsy procedure assisted by real-time ultrasonic imaging. The phantom comprises a plurality of small balloons, filled with a viscous substance, and tied shut. The balloons are distributed through and surrounded by a gelatinous substance comprising tissue equivalent material. During a simulated biopsy procedure, a section of the phantom is imaged as a biopsy needle penetrates through the tissue equivalent material, pierces one of the balloons, and aspirates some of the viscous substance from the balloon.

Abstract: A portable apparatus for measuring ultrasonic signal waves using interference between a reference reflected laser beam and one reflected from a gold-coated plastic film exposed to the sonic signal and located at the interface between liquids of different viscosity but which have substantially equal acoustic impedances. The liquids may respectively comprise water and fluorocarbon liquid.