A general statistical model for ultrasonic backscattering from tissues

Abstract

The backseat t orod ultrasonic echo from tissue can bo described in terms of Itayloigh distribution or K distribution. Even though both geiieriilistcul K distribution and homodyncd K distrihution run arrount for somo of the scattering conditions that cxisL in tissues, tho an(ilytir,nl complexity involved with these ciisti'ibiition.s is uifît. A much simpler pcoiicralized modul busixl on tho Nfik.ip;.imi distribution is proposed linn. This model can describe the stntiKtirs of tliH nnvtslojtc of tho backsentteicd echo from nil ensemble of scattered with vfii'yins number densities, varying tiioss HHctioriH, und thü prosoiico or absence of regularly spaccul KcattrHrti. Comiiutcr simulations ami experiments on tiHfiun-mmiiekiiifï phantoms have been undertnkon to test the validity of thu model. Results clearly show the vfWKntility of tho Nnîtagami distribution and its parametcir to ituiclel the backscattered iivelojiti from tiSHuos. It is suggested that Nfikagaini distribution may bo a good modul for use in tisHiie cliHrnctcirizntion because of its sinuile analytical nature: and ability to encompass dittcjrcmt Hcfiltcrinj conditions. © 2000 IEEE.