High-Pressure Low-Frequency Lateral Mode Phased-Array Transducer System for the Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis: An In Vitro Study.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can lead to a fatal disease known as pulmonary embolism. Application of high-power ultrasound has been successful in studies to mechanically fragment the clots. Single-element ultrasound transducers were used in most of the studies.

High-Power Phased-Array Transducer Module for the Construction of a System for the Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis.

Blood clot can be disintegrated by high-intensity focused ultrasound alone through inertial cavitation. There are limitations in using single-element ultrasound transducers for this purpose such as lack of steerability and control of the focus in terms of shape and location. Phased-array transducers being able to rapidly scan over the clots can alleviate this problem.