On-line two-dimensional evaluation of ultrasonic integrated backscatter.

We describe an apparatus for the on-line evaluation of integrated backscatter from areas of tissue. The equipment is fully integrated into a B-mode ultrasonic system; there are therefore no new operating procedures to be learned. It provides a simultaneous display of conventional information, together with parameters of tissue characterization. The apparatus is fast and, over a broad diagnostic frequency range, may be used in conjunction with conventional equipment employing transducers.