Abstract: A medical examination apparatus including a control unit, an image-generating modality and a controllable injection apparatus for a contrast agent is provided. The control unit is connected to an alarm signal emitter and the control unit switches the modality and the injection apparatus to a safe mode as a function of an alarm signal.

Abstract: The present invention provides an article or an interface having a distribution of a first partially spherical indentation and at least a second partially spherical indentation contained within the first indentation to form a multi-component or “compound” shape that is referred to as a “compound” or “nested” dimples or indentations. These compound dimples or indentions may be concentric and are etched or otherwise formed into a surface or interface of an article to enhance the ultrasonic imaging. Exemplary articles may be needles of the type used to conduct nerve blocks or the interface may be the surface of such a needle, cannula, catheter, catheter tip or similar article.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for image reconstruction and enhancement, using a computer system. One method includes acquiring a plurality of images associated with a target anatomy; determining, using a processor, one or more associations between subdivisions of localized anatomy of the target anatomy identified from the plurality of images, and local image regions identified from the plurality of images; performing an initial image reconstruction based on image acquisition information of the target anatomy; and updating the initial image reconstruction or generating a new image reconstruction based on the image acquisition information and the one or more determined associations.

Abstract: A diagnostic imaging apparatus for imaging information changing with time and displaying it in real time, composed of an ultrasonic probe (2), having piezoelectric elements arranged in an array form that transmit ultrasonic waves to a target object (1) and acquires a reflection signal from the target object; a body movement measuring unit (12) that constitutes a two-dimensional ultrasonic image using the reflection signal acquired by the ultrasonic probe, sets, in the image plane, a plurality of measuring areas used for measuring the body movement of the target object, and measures the body movement and deformation amounts in the measuring areas; and an image accumulating (subtracting) unit for accumulating or subtracting images using body movement measured by the body movement measurement unit.

Abstract: The ultrasound probe transmits and receives ultrasonic waves in different directions and the diagnostic apparatus body combines a plurality of images captured in the different directions of transmission and reception to produce an ultrasound image. In this process, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus measures the temperature of the ultrasound probe to change the ultrasound transmission and reception for producing a composite ultrasound image or makes the directions of transmission and reception in the last ultrasound image in one composite ultrasound image coincide with those in the first ultrasound image in its temporally adjacent composite ultrasound image. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus thus enables consistent ultrasound diagnosis against heat generated in the integrated circuit board of the ultrasound probe while simplifying the control of the ultrasound transmission and reception.

Abstract: Ultrasound systems and methods for real-time noninvasive spatial temperature estimation are disclosed herein. A method for noninvasive temperature estimation in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology can include, for example, propagating ultrasound waves into tissue and detecting echoes of the ultrasound waves. The ultrasound waves can become nonlinear as they propagate into the tissue. The method can further include monitoring changes in tissue temperature in real-time using a spectral-based temperature estimation approach, which correlates nonlinear acoustic effects with changes in tissue temperature.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is provided. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a display controller configured to cause an image to be displayed, wherein the image is generated using a map that includes two or more parameters as axes, the two or more parameters selected from inflow parameters each indicative of a state of inflow of a contrast agent administered to a subject and outflow parameters each indicative of a state of outflow of the contrast agent.

Abstract: A mammography installation or a mammography system allows x-ray projections of the breasts for at least one 3D volume image to be calculated with and without a contrast agent progression, and without repositioning of the patient within an examination cycle.

Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of devices and methods for providing enhanced echogenicity to medical devices. An echogenic feature is formed in the shape of a pyramidal reuleaux triangle. A lobe is constructed at a rim of an echogenic feature to create a pocket between the lobe and a bottom surface of the feature. A test fixture is disclosed which provides a method for obtaining quantifiable echogenicity data of medical devices.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for image reconstruction and enhancement, using a computer system. One method includes acquiring a plurality of images associated with a target anatomy; determining, using a processor, one or more associations between subdivisions of localized anatomy of the target anatomy identified from the plurality of images, and local image regions identified from the plurality of images; performing an initial image reconstruction based on image acquisition information of the target anatomy; and updating the initial image reconstruction or generating a new image reconstruction based on the image acquisition information and the one or more determined associations.

Abstract: A fluid fillable catheter capsule assembly is provided suitable for use with an appropriate catheter in imaging applications for medical or surgical procedures. Methods of constructing such fluid fillable catheter capsule assemblies, methods of using the fluid fillable catheter capsule assemblies, and imaging systems provided with fluid fillable catheter capsule assemblies are provided.

Abstract: A patient monitoring/defibrillation instrument displays patient vital signs in numeric form or as graphical waveform traces. Under normal room lighting conditions the numeric and waveform information is displayed in color against a black or gray background. When the patient monitor is operated outside or in bright light, the user has the option to select a color map for display of the patient vital signs information in a highly contrasting manner such as black numeric or waveform information against a bright background such as yellow. The high contrast display, while being objectionable in most indoor settings, has been found to comfortably and effectively display the monitored information in sunlight without the need to increase power to the display.

Abstract: The invention is directed biopsy site markers and methods of marking a biopsy site, so that the location of the biopsy cavity is readily visible by conventional imaging methods, particularly by ultrasonic imaging. The biopsy site markers of the invention have high ultrasound reflectivity, presenting a substantial acoustic signature from a small marker, so as to avoid obscuring diagnostic tissue features in subsequent imaging studies, and can be readily distinguished from biological features. The several disclosed embodiments of the biopsy site marker of the invention have a high contrast of acoustic impedance as placed in a tissue site, so as to efficiently reflect and scatter ultrasonic energy, and preferably include gas-filled internal pores. The markers may have a non-uniform surface contour to enhance the acoustic signature. The markers have a characteristic form which is recognizably artificial during medical imaging.

Abstract: Methods and devices of sterilization by which the ovarian pathway is occluded by a plug, wherein placement of the plug may be visually confirmed. Other methods and devices are also described.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and ultrasonic image processing method. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasonic transmission unit; An ultrasonic probe emits; An ultrasonic reception unit; An image processing unit; A sound velocity determination unit; and A control unit. Accordingly, there is an advantage in that the actual sound velocity of a reflected wave is estimated, so that high-quality ultrasonic images can be provided, and the time required for the estimation of a sound velocity can be reduced.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a coating for improving the ultrasound visibility of a device, the coating being made of a matrix material comprising at least one contrast agent, wherein the at least one contrast agent is a plurality of gas-filled microparticles. Moreover, this disclosure relates to an ultrasonic contrast agent-containing coating for a device. In addition, the herein-described disclosure relates to a method for preparing a microparticle, a method for preparing a coating, and a method for coating a device as well as the coated device.

Abstract: These are subcutaneous cavity marking devices and methods. More particularly, upon insertion into a body, the cavity marking device and method enable one to determine the center, orientation, and periphery of the cavity by radiographic, mammographic, echogenic, or other non-invasive imaging techniques. Also, the device contains a bioabsorbable or non-bioabsorbable marker. The device may be combined with various substances enhancing the radiopaque, mammographic, or echogenic characteristics of the marker or the body allowing it to be observed by any non-invasive imaging techniques. This is further a method of marking a subcutaneous cavity using a bioabsorbable material and a bioabsorbable or non-bioabsorbable marker in conjunction with the material. The method also may combine any of the features as described with the device.

Abstract: The present disclosure described methods, systems, and techniques for applying contrast-enhanced ultrasound to locate areas of blockage within retinal vessels and to break up clots that are causing damage. In addition to identifying the damaged area, the researchers anticipate that the initial image may serve as a baseline for monitoring the effect of treatment on the vessel, which may be achieved in multiple ways. The vibration effect of the ultrasound itself may suffice to dislodge clots. The microbubbles may also be coated or filled with medication, with ultrasonic shock waves activating the coating or causing mini explosions to release the medicine. Loading the microbubbles with a therapeutic agent, visualizing their presence at the diseased site using the ultrasound diagnostic mode, and then activating the microbubbles to release their contents at the targeted lesion could be a powerful and effective way to reverse occlusion without harming other areas of the eye or body.

Abstract: A signal generation unit 10 generates, and sends to a transmission circuit 12, a driving signal for forming a transmission pulse. A probe 14 is transmission controlled to transmit ultrasound at a transmission frequency which is set using, as a reference, a resonance frequency of a bubble administered into a living organism, and also at a transmission sound pressure which is set using an expansion ratio of the bubble as a reference. The signal generation unit 10 outputs a transmission pulse having a waveform corresponding to a center frequency of about 1.5 MHz and a transmission sound pressure of about 200 to 300 kPa. With this structure, it is possible to increase a harmonic component obtained from the bubble while suppressing a harmonic component obtained from real tissue, so that extremely high CTR can be obtained.

Abstract: Method and medical devices for generating and stabilizing micro or nano bubbles, and systems and methods for therapeutic applications using the bubbles, is provided. Two novel bubble generating means are provided: in-line capillary tubes and mix chambers flow focusing, and cross flow bubble generation with optimized bubble detachment means. A method and medical device to stabilize bubble sizes and improve bubble size homogeneity through rectified diffusion is disclosed. A method and system to facilitate acoustic activation of therapeutic agents using ultrasound energy is provided.

Abstract: An intracorporeal site marker has high ultrasound reflectivity, presents a substantial acoustic signature from a small marker, so as to avoid obscuring diagnostic tissue features in subsequent imaging studies, and can be readily distinguished from biological features. The biopsy site marker may include features to fix the marker to the biopsy site so as to resist migration from the biopsy cavity.

Abstract: Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes an unit 7 for forming time series tomographic images on the basis of a reflection echo signals received by ultrasound probe 2, an unit 8 for obtaining the elasticities of body tissue on the basis of the reflection echo signals and forming elasticity images on times series, an unit 9 for forming a superimposition image on time series by superposing the tomographic image on the elasticity image, an unit 43 for inputting an instruction for controlling superimposition image formation, and an unit 10 for displaying the superimposition image. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus further includes a freezing control portion (7, 8) for outputting an image, as a frozen image, selected in response to a freezing instruction for freezing the display operation on time series of any of the tomographic image or the elasticity image input into the input unit to the superimposition image forming unit.

Abstract: The ultrasound probe includes a first priority setting unit which sets a priority regarding which of temporal resolution and spatial resolution is given preference, and a measurement parameter setting unit which sets values of measurement parameters relating to the temporal resolution and the spatial resolution in accordance with the priority set by the first priority setting unit and a measurement depth set in advance such that power consumption falls within the allowable power consumption.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to a continuous anesthesia nerve conduction apparatus and method thereof, and more particularly to a method and system for use in administering a continuous flow or intermittent bolus of anesthetic agent to facilitate a continuous or prolonged nerve block. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a sheath having a proximal end, a distal end and at least one lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The sheath also includes an embedded conductive element for transmitting an electrical signal from a proximal portion of the sheath to a distal portion of the sheath. A cannula is arranged in the at least one lumen of the sheath and has a distal end protruding from a distal portion of the sheath. The cannula is electrically coupled to at least a portion of the embedded conductive element and is configured to provide nerve stimulation.

Abstract: The effectiveness of contrast agent destruction is determined. Locations of ineffectively destroyed contrast agents are identified. The response from undestroyed contrast agents may be distinguished from response from tissue due to saturation or from rapid perfusion. The locations may be highlighted on resulting images, indicating to the user locations not associated with perfusion. The user may make a diagnosis on perfusion rather than a lack of destruction of contrast agents.

Abstract: Described embodiments include a system, method, and computer program product. A receiver circuit receives ultrasound echoes from ultrasound-differentiable micro-objects implanted in a vertebrate subject in accordance with an implantable media format (hereafter “implanted micro-objects”). A format decoding circuit identifies the respective implantation region of the implantable media format occupied by each implanted micro-object based on their respective echoes. A micro-object recognition circuit recognizes each implanted micro-object based upon a machine recognizable feature in the respective echoes. A micro-object decoder circuit respectively decodes each recognized micro-object of the two implanted micro-objects into a unit of information pursuant to the identified implantation region of the recognized micro-object and a conversion table. An aggregator circuit collects the decoded units of information into a decoded information set. A computer storage media saves the decoded information set.

Abstract: Described embodiments include a system, method, and computer program product. A receiver circuit receives ultrasound echoes from at least two ultrasound-differentiable micro-objects implanted in a vertebrate subject (hereafter “implanted micro-objects”). A recognition circuit recognizes each implanted micro-object based upon a machine recognizable feature in the received echoes. A decoder circuit decodes pursuant to a conversion table each recognized implanted micro-objects into a digit of the base system of the conversion table. An aggregator circuit collects the decoded digits into a decoded data set. A computer storage media saves the decoded data set.

Abstract: Provided herein are dual contrast agents or nanocomposite particles designed to enhance optoacoustic-ultrasonic imaging. The contrast agents or particles have a core designed to enhance response to incident transient ultrasonic pressure waves and at least two layers disposed around the core. The inner first layer is designed to effectively absorb incident transient optical waves, convert absorbed optical energy into heat and demonstrates significant thermal expansion and/or conversion of thermal energy into acoustic pressure. The outer second layer thermally insulates the inner layer from the surrounding aqueous environment and enhances the generation of transient ultrasonic pressure waves during optoacoustic-ultrasonic imaging and sensing. Also provided are methods of enhancing contrast in a tissue optoacoustic-ultrasonic imaging and producing enhanced optoacoustic images by contacting the tissue with the dual contrast agent or nanocomposite particles.

Abstract: Described embodiments include a system. A described system includes a set of at least two biocompatible and ultrasound-differentiable micro-objects suitable for implantation in a vertebrate subject. Each micro-object of the set of micro-objects while implanted respectively returning an echo response to an applied ultrasound energy having a machine recognizable feature differentiating the micro-object over each other micro-object of the set of micro-objects (hereafter “set of micro-objects”). The system includes a conversion table correlating each digit of the conversion table base system with a respective machine recognizable feature in an echo response to an ultrasound energy applied to a micro-object of the set of micro-objects. In an embodiment, the system includes a packaging material carrying the set of micro-objects and the conversion table.

Abstract: Described embodiments include a system and a method. A conversion table correlates each digit of the conversion table base system to a respective machine recognizable feature in an ultrasound echo response by a respective micro-object of a set at least two ultrasound-differentiable micro-objects (hereafter “set of micro-objects). An encoding apparatus encodes a data set into machine recognizable features of at least two micro-objects of the set of micro-objects pursuant to the conversion table. A selector apparatus picks from a physical set of the micro-objects at least two micro-objects having the machine recognizable features corresponding to the encoded data set. Each micro-object of the physical set of micro-objects is biocompatible and suitable for implantation in a vertebrate subject. Each micro-object while implanted returns an ultrasound echo having a machine recognizable feature differentiating the micro-object over each other micro-object of the set of micro-objects.

Abstract: There is disclosed a medical needle comprising a needle shaft that defines a longitudinal axis, a tip formed at one end of the shaft, and an ultrasonic reflector formed in an outer surface of the needle shaft. The reflector comprises a first reflector surface that is at an angle of no more than 35° to the longitudinal axis of the shaft and that faces towards the tip, and at least one additional reflector surface that forms an angle to the first reflector surface within the range of 75° to 105°, and that is substantially concave in a direction towards the first reflector surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an ultrasonic system for measuring a micro-vascular flow distribution of a tissue portion of a mammal comprising an ultrasonic transducer (101) arranged for measuring a first indicator (MTT) for the blood flow through a capillary bed in the tissue portion, and arranged for measuring a second indicator of heterogeneity (CTTH, ?) of the blood flow in said capillary bed, and a processor (110) arranged for using the first (MTT) and the second (?) indicator to estimate an extraction capacity (EC) of a substance from the blood in said capillary bed.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprises a transmitting and receiving section which transmits and receives a first ultrasonic wave that has such a sound pressure as practically does not destroy a contrast agent bubble given to a subject and that is for obtaining a bloodstream circulating image about a target area of the subject and which transmits a second ultrasonic wave that has such a sound pressure as destroys the contrast agent bubble and that is for causing the contrast agent bubble passing through a part of the target area to disappear from the circulating image, a timing specify section which informs the transmitting and receiving section of the timing of the transmission of the second ultrasonic wave, an image generating section which generates an ultrasonic image on the basis of each signal obtained by the transmission and reception of the first ultrasonic wave.

Abstract: A hyperechogenic needle includes a rigid shaft, which can be a hollow metal cannula, having a hyperechogenic particulate material affixed on an outer surface of the shaft that provides for visualization of the needle in two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound, particularly when the needle is in a position forming a non-90° angle between the longitudinal axis and the direction of the ultrasound waves in the two-dimensional ultrasound plane. The hyperechogenic particulate material can be covered by a polymeric coating or embedded in a polymeric material to provide a hyperechogenic layer. The polymeric coating and polymeric material can be electrically non-conductive or electrically conductive.

Abstract: The invention provides materials, devices and methods for marking biopsy sites for a limited time. The biopsy-marking materials are ultrasound-detectable bio-resorbable powders, with powder particles typically between about 20 microns and about 800 microns in maximum dimension, more preferably between about 300 microns and about 500 microns. The powders may be formed of polymeric materials containing cavities sized between about 10 microns and about 500 microns, and may also contain binding agents, anesthetic agents, hemostatic agents, and radiopaque markers. Devices for delivering the powders include tubes configured to contain the powders and to fit within a biopsy cannula, the powders being ejected by action of a syringe. Systems may include a tube containing powder, and a syringe containing sterile saline. The tube may be configured to fit within a biopsy cannula such as a Mammotome® or SenoCor 360™ cannula.

Abstract: An object is to provide a pressing member, an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic diagnosing device that enhance the efficiency of uniformly pressing a subject and achieve a high-precision elastic image. Therefore, the contact surface of the pressing member with the subject is formed so that the vertical direction of the face of at least a part of the contact surface is different from the vertical direction of the face of the other part. The pressing member is detachably mounted on the probe or formed integrally with the probe.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is provided. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a display controller configured to cause an image to be displayed, wherein the image is generated using a map that includes two or more parameters as axes, the two or more parameters selected from inflow parameters each indicative of a state of inflow of a contrast agent administered to a subject and outflow parameters each indicative of a state of outflow of the contrast agent.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is disclosed for imaging 3-dimensional images by irradiating ultrasonic waves to an object and reconstructing the 3-dimensional image. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasonic probe for transmitting/receiving ultrasonic waves to/from an object to be examined, an ultrasonic image construction unit for constructing a 3-dimensional ultrasonic image based on the 3-dimensional ultrasonic image data from the ultrasonic signals received from the ultrasonic probe, and a display unit for displaying the 3-dimensional ultrasonic image. A position sensor is provided for detecting the position of the ultrasonic probe. A positional information analyzing unit stores the first position of the ultrasonic probe obtained from the position sensor and analyzes the positional relationship between the first position and the second position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a general composite compartmental model and a compartmental analysis procedure to extract non-invasively the concentration (Cp) of the imaging agent in plasma (301), in metabolites (304, 504) and in blood elements (303) (like red cells, platelets, plasma protein etc.) from time signal curves measured within a reference tissue region (200). This is made possible by deploying an injection function (SINJ(t)) as input which models the amount of imaging agent administered to the patient as a function of time. The invention allows the presentation of the plasma input function to the medical practitioner without the need for invasively drawing blood samples.

Abstract: Provided herein are systems, methods and compositions for the use of ultrasound for detection of cells and nanoparticles.

Abstract: These are subcutaneous cavity marking devices and methods. More particularly, upon insertion into a body, the cavity marking device and method enable one to determine the center, orientation, and periphery of the cavity by radiographic, mammographic, echogenic, or other non-invasive imaging techniques. Also, the device contains a bioabsorbable or non-bioabsorbable marker. The device may be combined with various substances enhancing the radiopaque, mammographic, or echogenic characteristics of the marker or the body allowing it to be observed by any non-invasive imaging techniques. This is further a method of marking a subcutaneous cavity using a bioabsorbable material and a bioabsorbable or non-bioabsorbable marker in conjunction with the material. The method also may combine any of the features as described with the device.

Abstract: A data management system automatically manages image buffers to produce images for angiography using a first memory portion, a second memory portion and an image data processor. The first memory portion stores first image frame data representing minimum luminance values of individual pixels of a sequence of medical images. The second memory portion stores second image frame data comprising a difference between the minimum luminance values and corresponding maximum luminance values. The image data processor processes data representing an acquired X-ray image frame of a catheterized vessel using a stored frame of maximum or minimum pixel luminance values and the second image frame data to provide an image with enhanced visualization of a catheter in a vessel.

Abstract: A networked system for rendering diagnostic image data for display has at least one diagnostic imaging apparatus that obtains digital image data for a patient and is in communication with a computer network. At least one consistency control module executes at a networked processor and is operatively responsive to a set of programmed instructions for accessing and detecting the type of image, for identifying one or more control points in the obtained digital image data, for mapping the input code values of the one or more control points to corresponding predetermined code values, for mapping additional input code values to output values according to the mapping of the one or more control points, and for providing rendered image data as output. A DICOM destination in networked communication with the at least one consistency control module stores or displays the rendered image data.

Abstract: An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasound probe, a location sensor that detects a location of the ultrasound probe, and a location calculation device configured to calculate a location of echo data in a first three-dimensional coordinate system having a certain point as an origin based on the probe location. A deformation calculation device performs a deformation calculation to deform a shape of the body tissue in either an ultrasound image or a medical image captured by a medical imaging apparatus other than the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus to a shape of the body tissue of the other image. A display image control device performs a coordinate conversion between the coordinate system of the ultrasound image and a coordinate system of the medical image and displays a deformed image based on the deformation calculation and the other image about a same cross-section on a display device.

Abstract: Embodiments for providing an elastic image are disclosed. In one embodiment, by way of non-limiting example, an ultrasound system comprises: a user input unit configured to receive user input information from a user; a storage unit configured to store a mapping table associating measuring item information on a plurality of measuring items with a plurality of applications; an ultrasound data acquisition unit configured to acquire ultrasound data corresponding to the target object; and a processing unit configured to form an ultrasound image based on ultrasound data and detect a contour of the target object in the ultrasound image in response to the user input information, the processing unit being further configured to extract at least one of measuring items corresponding to the user input information and the contour from the storage unit to form a measuring item candidate group.

Abstract: Echogenic medical devices, methods of fabrication and methods of use are disclosed. The device can be adapted to be inserted into a patient. The echogenic construction can be incorporated into the device at the time of fabrication providing acoustic impedance different from that of the surrounding biological tissue or fluid. The medical device is designed for use with an ultrasound imaging system to provide real-time location of the insertion and guidance at the time the device is implanted in a patient, such as in brachytherapy. Following placement of the device the position can be evaluated over time to insure the device remains in proper alignment and functional. Furthermore, the device is designed to incorporate a spacer element at one or both ends to provide separation between radioactive elements.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention describe methods of determining the occlusion of body lumens and apparatuses for doing so. In one particular embodiment, the occlusion of the fallopian tubes by an intrafallopian contraceptive device may be confirmed by contrast enhanced ultrasonography (also known as stimulated acoustic emission hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography). In these embodiments a contrast agent containing microbubbles is used.

Abstract: A method of detecting at least one axillary sentinel lymph node using ultrasonography is described. The method comprises injecting an iron hydroxide compound into a patient at or near a suspected tumor site in the breast and waiting an amount of time required for the iron hydroxide compound to enter cells of the sentinel lymph node. The axillary area near the injection site may then be analyzed using ultrasonography to identify at least one sentinel lymph node. Once identified, a small sample of tissue from the identified sentinel lymph node may be taken for pathological analysis to aid in determination of the stage or extent of breast cancer.

Abstract: An imaging device is disclosed for generating successive tomograms of an object. In at least one embodiment, the imaging device includes a radiation source, a detector, a positioning unit and a control unit for controlling the positioning unit and for evaluating the recorded data of the detector. In at least one embodiment, it is provided that the control unit is set up for matching a contrast medium protocol, in which parameters for contrast medium administration are stored, provided for examinations in a contrast medium device, to a scan protocol provided for the examination, in which operating parameters for generating successive tomograms are stored, for preventing unnecessary administration phases. This provides for a contrast medium examination with the least possible contrast medium administration.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system and method are described which produce tissue harmonic images containing both fundamental and harmonic frequency components. Such a blended image takes advantage of the performance possible with the two types of ultrasonic echo information and can advantageously reduce near field clutter while improving signal to noise performance in the far field of the image.