This study presents a high-resolution Vascular Ultrasound-based hybrid imaging technique for vascular tissue characterization, particularly diagnosing atherosclerosis in mice. The technique integrates ultrasound radiofrequency (RF) data processed across time and wavelet domains. The researchers extracted six key parameters: time-integrated backscatter (TIB), time variance (Tvar), time entropy, frequency-integrated backscatter (FIB), wavelet root mean square value, and wavelet-integrated backscatter (WIB). They used these parameters to reconstruct images that were co-registered with morphological B-scan images, enabling a detailed analysis of vascular tissue.
High-Frequency Ultrasound Vascular
Researchers tested the technique using high-frequency ultrasound systems, including a single-element transducer (55 MHz center frequency) and a commercial array system (40 MHz), which achieved spatial resolutions of 24 µm and 40 µm, respectively. They applied the method to control (C57BL/6) and atherosclerotic mouse models, such as APOE-KO and APOE/A1 adenosine receptor double knockout mice. Atherosclerotic lesions in the APOE-KO mice showed the highest values across all six hybrid image parameters, with significant differences when compared to the control group. Results from both histology and optical images demonstrated good agreement with ultrasound, with a maximum error of 3.6% in lesion estimation.
This study underscores the significant potential
This study underscores the significant potential of high-resolution hybrid ultrasound imaging as an advanced diagnostic tool for identifying and characterizing atherosclerosis, particularly in small animals. By leveraging high-frequency ultrasound technology, the hybrid imaging technique enables detailed, quantitative assessments of vascular tissue, providing an in-depth analysis of atherosclerotic plaques and their components. Unlike traditional imaging methods, this approach offers superior spatial resolution and the ability to capture subtle tissue variations that are critical for early detection of atherosclerosis, a major contributor to cardiovascular disease.
One of the key advantages of this hybrid ultrasound technique is its noninvasive, which eliminates the need for contrast agents or invasive procedures, making it ideal for longitudinal studies and repeated imaging over time. The ability to obtain detailed images of plaque morphology.
