Rectangular 1014 element matrix array for transperineal imaging

We developed a 2D matrix array for later use in transperineal volumetric ultrasound imaging in the context of radiation dose monitoring. In the envisioned applications, radiation-sensitive microbubbles shall induce changes in the (spectral) reflection behavior of ultrasonic waves. To optimize both amplitude and spectral sensitivity, we developed an array with a footprint adapted on the transperineal window and focused on a high bandwidth. Our 1014 element rectangular footprint array ( 26×39 ) was characterized on phantoms and allows resolutions below 1 mm (FWHM of 910 mm ) even with the simplest possible reconstruction scheme (single transmit 0° plan wave) and DAS beamforming. To allow advanced research on volumetric beamforming schemes, 1 to 1 wiring of all elements to TX/RX channels of our 1024ch electronics has been implemented, introducing some significant challenges to the contacting scheme.