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Research advances of beamforming algorithms in medical ultrasound systems

Fei Liu1, Haipo Cui1, Fujia Sun2, Shuhao Hou3, Peng Yue


Schools of 1Health Science and Engineering, 2Mechanical Engineering, 3Materials and Chemistry, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China. 4Shanghai Guoyan Medical Device Testing Cen ter Co., Ltd., Shanghai 200000, China. 


Address correspondence to: Haipo Cui, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, NO.334, Jungong Road, Shanghai 200093, China. Tel: +86 21-55271290, E-mail: hpcui@usst.edu.cn; Fujia Sun, School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, NO.516, Jungong Road, Shanghai 200093, China. Tel: +86 13621773624, E-mail: chinasfj@126.com.


DOI: https://doi.org/10.61189/273582nrnxmc


Received August 12, 2024; Accepted September 11, 2024; Published March 31, 2025


Highlights 

 ● Algorithms such as adaptive beamforming and synthetic aperture technology have significantly improved the quality of ultrasound images. 

 ● New algorithms, such as deep learning, can adapt to more complex signal environments at the expense of real-time performance. 

 ● Combining different algorithms can overcome the limitations of a single algorithm, thereby improving image resolution, contrast, and noise resistance.

Abstract

Medical ultrasound imaging, as a non-invasive, safe, and reliable technology, plays an important role in clinical diagnosis and treatment. However, traditional ultrasound imaging techniques have limitations such as low resolution, poor penetration depth, and high noise levels. To address these issues, beamforming algorithms have become essential. This paper discusses the development and current research status of beamforming algorithms in the context of medical ultrasound systems, focusing on commonly used beamforming algorithms such as synthetic aperture imaging, adaptive beamforming (especially minimum variance distortionless response), and generalized sidelobe canceller technology. These algorithms optimize the emission and reception of ultrasound waves, overcoming the limitations of traditional techniques and improving image resolution, penetration depth, and noise suppression. They provide support for the advancement of medical ultrasound imaging technology and its clinical applications.

Keywords: Medical ultrasound imaging, beamforming algorithms, synthetic aperture, minimum variance, generalized sidelobe canceller

Liu F, Cui HP, Sun FJ, Hou SH, Yue P. Research advances of beamforming algorithms in medical ultrasound systems. Prog in Med Devices 2025 Mar;3(1):26-42. doi: 10.61189/273582nrnxmc
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