The primary aims of this research relate to the use of ultrasound for the diagnosis and treatment of ocular disease.
On-going projects include:

1. Ultrasonic characterization of intraocular tumors. We are currently involved in a multi-center study in which digitized in vivo ultrasound data from scans of ocular malignant melanomas are sent to our laboratory for processing and comparison with histopathologic features. Digital signal processing and acoustic scattering theory are used to produce local estimates of scatterer size and concentration, which are displayed in false-color on the ultrasonic image of the tumor. Preliminary results suggest that ultrasound may provide a non-invasive technique for grading of uveal melanoma.
   
2. Very-high frequency ultrasonic imaging. The resolution of ultrasonic images improves with increasing frequency. We are using very high frequency (50 MHz) ultrasound to study the anatomy and pathology of the anterior segment of the eye. Studies involving this technique include characterization of tumors, corneal scars, glaucoma, and the physiology of accommodation.
   
3. Three-dimensional imaging. By scanning the eye in sequential planes, 3-D images can be constructed. We are using this to measure the volumes of tumors, the volumetric distribution of acoustic backscatter features in tumors and hemorrhages, and mapping of corneal scar depth.
   
4. Treatment of tumors with high-intensity ultrasound. Ultrasound can be used to heat tissue, a process called hyperthermia. We are studying the use of ultrasound for treatment of tumors by characterizing changes in tumors in an animal model after exposure to different time/temperature treatment regimes.
   
5. Signal and image processing with neural networks. We are developing simulated neural networks to extract information from ultrasonic signals and images for improvement in detection and diagnosis of pathology.