B-mode compound imaging in mice.

Cross-sectional B-mode images were obtained from a dead mouse for a 360 degrees scan around the mouse using a 12-MHz linear array. For each cross-section, a set of aligned images was obtained after rotation about the isocenter, which were added to produce a single compound image. The compound images demonstrated a substantial improvement over single B-mode images, with uniform image quality, low noise and improved visualization of structures. This technique may be of interest in forming the basis for a new 3-D in vivo technique in the abdomen and pelvic regions, providing high-quality ultrasound images that are not dependent on operator skill. A further development worth pursuing for improved spatial resolution is reconstruction-based tomography.