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| A Review of Integrated Transceiver Circuits for Medical Ultrasound Application in Low-Income Countries
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Kibirige David,Opolot Samuel Otekat, Kanyana Ruth, , Kolokolo Hannington, Shema Innocent, Kalule Mugagga, Tigasitwa Fred, Wodidi Jonah ,Senyonjo Timothy,Kwesiga Dominic
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Abstract:
The shift in medical ultrasound imaging from traditional cart-based scanners to newer formats like imaging catheters, hand-held point-of-care scanners, and ultrasound patches has created a growing demand for integrated transceivers. These transceivers must be closely integrated with the transducer to achieve channel-count reduction, improve signal quality, and potentially enable full digitization. This research paper examines compact and power-efficient circuit solutions for these integrated transceivers. The paper commences with a concise overview of ultrasound transducer technologies and the fundamental principles governing the ultrasound transmit-receive signal path. Regarding transmission, it explores various high-voltage pulsers, ranging from compact unipolar pulsers to multi-level pulsers that offer amplitude control and enhanced power efficiency. On the receive circuits side, the discussion begins with low-noise amplifiers, which serve as the power- and performance-limiting building block. The paper also addresses solutions for time-gain compensation, which play a vital role in reducing signal dynamic range by compensating for the decreasing echo-signal amplitude associated with propagation attenuation. Moreover, the paper explores the option of directly digitizing the echo signal at the transducer. Finally, it concludes by reflecting on the future opportunities and challenges in the realm of integrated circuits for ultrasound applications.
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