On the evaluation a an ultrasonic transducer response using a fixing angle device in the acquisition of Doppler blood flow signals during coronary graft surgery

This paper proposes the design and use of a device which will fix the angle of an ultrasonic transducer used in the acquisition of Ultrasonic Doppler signals during coronary graft surgery. The aim of this device is to act as a tool which will guide the surgeon to position the ultrasonic transducer in the correct angle and plane which is essential on the calculation of the blood flow through the implanted graft. An experimental set-up has been implemented in order to evaluate the transducer response when used with the device. The radiation fields and attenuation due to the presence of the device are discussed and analyzed. Results show the effectiveness of the device in handling the transducer and warranty the quality of the acquired signals and measurements.