Validation of a Compact Microwave Imaging System for Bone Fracture Detection

This work presents a systematic evaluation of the effectiveness an air-operated microwave imaging (MWI) system for detection arbitrarily oriented thin fractures in superficial bones, like tibia. includes proposal new compact, portable setup where single Vivaldi antenna performs semi-cylindrical scan limb. The is operated monostatic radar mode, near skin but without contact, thus ensuring hygiene and patient comfort during exam. image reconstructed using wave-migration algorithm frequency domain combined with adaptative based on singular value decomposition which removes artifact taking into account non-uniform bone profile tissue cover. study investigates resolution, robustness method to uncertainty permittivity thickness involved tested tissues, as well involuntary movement. experimental validation was performed first time integral ex-vivo animal leg, all tissues present, including fur. It confirmed both method, feasibility setup.