Independent measurements of the elastic modulus (Young' s modulus) of
tissue are a necessary step in turning elasticity imaging into a clini
cal tool. A system capable of measuring the elastic modulus of small t
issue samples was developed. The system tolerates the constraints of b
iological tissue, such as limited sample size less than or equal to 1.
5 cm(3)) and imperfections in sample geometry. A known deformation is
applied to the tissue sample while simultaneously measuring the result
ing force. These measurements are then converted to an elastic modulus
, where the conversion uses prior calibration of the system with plast
isol samples of known Young's modulus. Accurate measurements have been
obtained from 10 to 80 kPa, covering a wide range of tissue modulus v
alues. In addition, the performance of the system was further investig
ated using finite element analysis. Finally, preliminary elasticity me
asurements on canine kidney samples are presented and discussed. (C) 1
998 Dynamedia, Inc.