Enhanced Visual Assistance System for Ultrasound Operators

An improved system and method for visually assisting ultrasound operators, providing enhanced real-time image transformation, automatic adjustments, and intuitive user interfaces to increase accuracy and efficiency in targeted biopsy procedures.

The original patent disclosed a method and system for visually assisting ultrasound operators, but it had limitations in terms of real-time image transformation, manual adjustments, and user interface complexity. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing advanced features and functionalities to improve the overall performance and user experience.

The enhanced system comprises a processing unit, a display device, and a trans-rectal side-fire ultrasound transducer probe. The processing unit receives first imaging data marked with a landmark and transforms it into second imaging data using a second coordinate system. The display device displays the transformed image data in real-time and provides alerts to the operator when the region of interest is not visible. The system also includes automatic adjustments of the roll angle of the side-fire ultrasound transducer to optimize the visibility of the region of interest. Additionally, the system generates a 3D model of the anatomical region based on the first imaging data, providing a more accurate transformation. The user interface allows the operator to adjust display settings and provides a visual indication of the region of interest.

The new claims introduce significant improvements over the original patent, including real-time image transformation, automatic adjustments, and intuitive user interfaces. These advancements provide a more efficient and accurate system for visually assisting ultrasound operators, making it easier to perform targeted biopsy procedures.

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include different types of ultrasound transducer probes, such as end-fire or curved array probes, or various display devices, such as 3D displays or augmented reality interfaces. The system could also be adapted for use in other medical procedures, such as laparoscopic or endoscopic surgeries.

The enhanced visual assistance system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of ultrasound-guided biopsy and minimally invasive surgeries. The system's improved accuracy and efficiency could lead to increased adoption and market share in these industries.