A new digital adaptive time gain correction for B-mode ultrasonic imaging

In B-mode echographic imaging, attenuation of ultrasound increasing with depth is compensated by adapted Time Gain Curves (TGC). Gain curve control is usually made by the sonographer during real time examination. Departing from classical Automatic Gain Control (AGC), the adaptive time gain control presented in this study includes special pattern recognition procedures for strong echoes and fluid filled regions. As a consequence resulting gain curves fit better to image characteristics and a permanent gain optimization is obtained without any operator´s work.