Backscatter imaging and myocardial tissue characterization

The goal of myocardial ultrasonic tissue characterization is to complement two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography by providing information (such as assessment of regional viability based on localized values of backscatter) beyond that derived from an assessment of myocardial dimensions and motion. Quantitative backscatter imaging can be subdivided into three broad areas: (1) direct applications, in which specific pathologies are identified and monitored, (2) indirect applications, in which quantitative techniques designed for use in tissue characterization serve to expand the role of echocardiography, and (3) contributions to the understanding of cardiac structure and function.