OFF-APERTURE ELECTRICAL CONNECTION FOR ULTRASONIC TRANSDUCER

摘要

The present invention provides catheter systems and imaging assemblies using off-aperture electrical connections for ultrasound transducers. In one embodiment, a catheter includes a transducer connection apparatus (10) comprising a washer (12) having a hole (15) therethrough. A transducer eleme nt (24) is at least partially disposed within the washer hole. A matching layer (26) is operably attached to the washer and to the transducer element. The washer, transducer element and matching layer provide an electrical connecti on between the transducer element and the washer. Signals can be sent to and received from the transducer by establishing an electrical connection with t he washer.