| 摘要 |
<p>Disclosed within are embodiments of the present invention directed toward methods and apparatus for detecting the structural integrity of a fluid-filled implant (200), and, more specifically, a silicone gel-filled breast implant (200) while it is implanted in the patient. A mechanical action or S vibration is applied to the implant in vivo in a safe and noninvasive manner, and a response is measured and analyzed. The measured response may be compared to a predetermined baseline, and the comparison used to indicate the structural integrity of the implant. The severity and location of any rupture may also be indicated. The measured dynamic response, which is a direct mechanical measurement, may be used to more accurately determine the structural integrity of the implant than 10 conventional imaging techniques.</p> |
