Spatial prediction filtering for increased penetration depth in synthetic aperture ultrasound

Synthetic aperture ultrasound is an imaging technique using channel data for every transmit and receive element combinations to achieve two-way focusing at all depths. One of its main drawbacks is reduced penetration depth because of lower reduced transmit power on each transmit event. To mitigate this problem, we employ a spatial prediction filtering technique called the frequency-space prediction filtering (FXPF) to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and thus, improve penetration depth in synthetic aperture ultrasound imaging. Our point target simulation and experimental phantom results show that FXPF is highly effective in enhancing the penetration depth and visibility of cyst targets, particularly for those at deep locations.