Method and device for multi-parametric ultrasonic assessment of bone conditions

Abstract

A method of assessment of bone conditions comprises acquiring of unilateral sequential ultrasonic measurements along the trajectory over the surface of an examined bone. The method utilizes measurements of a set of ultrasonic parameters from a plurality of ultrasonic transfucers moved along the tested bone surface. Measured parameters are displayed as profile graphs characterizing bone conditions. The set of measured and displayed ultrasonic parameters can include: velocity of a longitudinal wave; velocity of a flexural wave; attenuation of the longitudinal wave; attenuation of the flexural wave; frequency slope of attenuation of the longitudinal wave; frequency slope of attenuation of the flexural wave; changes of spectral characteristics of propagating the longitudinal wave; and changes of spectral characteristics of propagating the flexural wave. To eliminate the influence of soft tissues on the measured parameters, the thickness of soft tissue layer over the examined area of bone is measured by pulse-echo ultrasonic channels incorporated in the transducers. Based on the ultrasound parameters and their combinations, quantitative evaluation of bone mineralization (ossification) status, structure and cortical thickness is made. The method of the present invention comprises a multi-transducer probe, tools for controlling the pressure with which the transducers contact the skin surface, and a digital counter measuring the distance traveled by the probe along the predetermined trajectory on the examined bone surface.