Evaluation of an automatic method for detection of defects in linear and curvilinear ultrasound transducers

In this paper, we deal with statistical modeling and a related case study for reliability when multiple failure causes are present. At first, we present in detail two main approaches for competing risk modeling, e.g. the Cox Proportional Hazards model, and the Fine & Gray model. In both models, we consider the inclusion of random effects, a no-trivial issue in this context, especially from the practical point of view. Following, we deal with advanced statistical models to compare the causes of failure, providing extremely useful information for production managers. To perform a useful study for practitioners, statistical modeling is illustrated through an empirical example related to ultrasound probes for medical imaging. The main theory is briefly presented comprehensively, while particular emphasis is given to data structure for model estimation and interpretation of the results, highlighting methodological comparisons and practical differences. Details related to two statistical software are also provided. Furthermore, reliability modeling could be efficiently applied by practitioners and engineers to solve similar technical problems.

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Risk-based ultrasound probe quality assurance – a single center proof-of-concept study

Botz

2024

Ultraschall Med

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Ultrasound probe quality assurance is an underserved and underregulated area in medical imaging. While several testing methods exist, their availability and adoption remains varied, and the frequency of testing is often insufficient. Here we aimed to conduct a user-driven simple and rapid probe quality testing approach and to evaluate its rationale.Testing was based on physical examination of probe integrity (all probes) and in-air reverberation check (for curvilinear and linear array probes), findings, as well as probe age were registered. Prior to assessment, probes were divided into a high-risk vs. a low-risk category, based on the perceived risk of probe damage as a result of the typical application (e.g., non-invasive vs. interventional, inpatient vs. point-of-care).17.4% of the low-risk and 31.4% of high-risk probes demonstrated physical wear or damage. Reverberation artifacts were significantly more frequent (68%) in the high-risk category vs. the low-risk one (29.4%). Probes with either physical or reverberation faults were significantly older on average.The simple, rapid investigational technique uncovered an alarming percentage of probe damage or faults. It also identified immediately solvable technical issues (e.g., poor cable contact mimicking dropout). High-risk probe usage resulted in an increased rate of reverberation errors and physical damage. Risk-based, frequent rapid observational testing of ultrasound probes could substantially improve both diagnostic quality and patient safety.

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Evaluation of an automatic method for detection of defects in linear and curvilinear ultrasound transducers

Cited by 4 publications

References 21 publications

Investigation of the Impact of Defective Ultrasound Transducers on Clinical Image Quality in Grayscale 2-D Still Images

Investigation of the Impact of Defective Ultrasound Transducers on Clinical Image Quality in Grayscale 2-D Still Images

Reliability with multiple causes of failures: Modeling and practice through a case study on ultrasound probes for medical imaging

Risk-based ultrasound probe quality assurance – a single center proof-of-concept study

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