Three-Dimensional Tissue Hardness Imaging

Abstract

A method for generating hardness information of tissue subject to a varying pressure. The method comprises receiving signals from the tissue from a sensor for measuring the deformation of the tissue in a measuring plane defined by the sensor, which sensor, during a varying pressure exerted on the tissue, is moved along the tissue in a direction transverse to the measuring plane; identifying strain of the tissue from the resulting signals; and relating the strain to elasticity and/or hardness parameters of the tissue. The method may comprise the step of displaying elasticity and/or hardness parameters of a tissue surface or tissue volume part extending practically parallel to the direction of motion of the sensor.

1 . A method for generating hardness information of tissue subject to a varying pressure, the method comprising:
 receiving signals from a tissue with a sensor for measuring the deformation of the tissue in a measuring plane defined by the sensor, which sensor, during a varying pressure exerted on the tissue. is moved along the tissue in a direction transverse to the measuring plane;   identifying strain of the tissue from the resulting signals; and   relating the strain to elasticity, hardness or hardness and elasticity parameters of the tissue.   
     
     
         2 - 24 . (canceled)