Model-based estimation of quantitative ultrasound variables at the proximal femur

作者：Dencks Stefanie^*; Barkmann Reinhard; Padilla Frederic; Laugier Pascal; Schmitz Georg; Glueer Claus C

来源：IEEE Transactions on Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control, 2008, 55(6): 1304-1315.

DOI：10.1109/TUFFC.2008.793

To improve the prediction of the osteoporotic fracture risk at the proximal femur we are developing a scanner for quantitative ultrasound (QUS) measurements at this site. Due to multipath transmission in this complex shaped bone, conventional signal processing techniques developed for QUS measurements at peripheral sites frequently fail. Therefore, we propose a model-based estimation of the QUIS variables and analyze the performance of the new algorithm. Applying the proposed method to QUS scans of excised proximal femurs increased the fraction of evaluable signals from approx. 60% (using conventional algorithms) to 97%. The correlation of the standard QUS variables broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) and speed of sound (SOS) with the established variable bone mineral density (BMD) reported in previous studies is maintained (BUA/BMD: r(2) = 0.69; SOS/BMD: r(2) = 0.71; SOS+BUA/BMD: r(2) = 0.88). Additionally, different wave types could be clearly detected and characterized in the trochanteric region. The ability to separate superimposed signals with this approach opens up further diagnostic potential for evaluating waves of different sound paths and wave types through bone tissue.

• 出版日期2008-6
• 单位河北医科大学