P5B-4 Optimization of Chirp Reversal for Ultrasound Contrast Imaging

Chirp reversal consists of transmitting first a chirp with upsweep frequencies (UPF) then a second chirp with downsweep frequencies (DNF). We have shown that contrast bubbles react differently to these chirps allowing the use of chirp reversal for ultrasound contrast imaging. The aim of the current study is to explore how chirp reversal can be optimized in terms of transmit frequency, bubble size, acoustic pressure and frequency bandwidth. Simulations were carried out to determine ultrasound parameters that provide largest differences in bubble´s response to UPF and DNF chirps. Scattered pressures were calculated using a modified Rayleigh-Plesset equation. To evaluate the performance of chirp reversal for bubble detection, the echo from an UPF chirp was correlated to the time reversed echo from a DNF chirp for each scanning parameter. Simulations and optical measurements allow for an optimization of chirp reversal and demonstrate a potential application for contrast imaging when appropriate scanning parameters are selected.