Knowledge Why is Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) film used for HIFU? Master Acoustic & Optical Clarity in Medical Devices
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Tech Team · Belislaser

Updated 2 days ago

Why is Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) film used for HIFU? Master Acoustic & Optical Clarity in Medical Devices


Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) film is the material of choice for HIFU treatment windows because it successfully bridges two competing engineering requirements: acoustic permeability and optical clarity. Specifically, it offers near-perfect transparency for high-frequency ultrasonic waves (20 MHz) while simultaneously allowing visible light to pass through for microscopic imaging systems. This allows the film to seal the device's water chamber without obstructing either the therapeutic energy or the visual feedback needed for safe operation.

LDPE is selected primarily for its dual transparency: it allows high-frequency ultrasound to pass through with negligible attenuation while permitting clear optical transmission for real-time microscopic skin monitoring.

The Physics of the Interface

Acoustic Transparency at High Frequencies

The primary function of the window is to facilitate the transfer of energy. LDPE demonstrates exceptional acoustic transparency, particularly in the 20 MHz high-frequency range used by these devices.

Crucially, the material exhibits almost no ultrasonic attenuation. This ensures that the focused ultrasound energy is delivered to the target tissue without being absorbed or scattered by the interface itself.

Enabling Visual Monitoring

Beyond acoustics, the treatment window must serve as an optical portal. LDPE provides excellent visual light transmission.

This optical quality is essential for integrated microscopic imaging systems. It allows the device to "look through" the film, providing a clear, unobstructed view of the skin surface to ensure precise placement and monitoring.

Structural Functionality

While its transmission properties are paramount, the LDPE film also plays a vital structural role. It functions as a sealing medium for the water chamber within the treatment head.

It maintains the integrity of the coupling fluid containment system. Yet, unlike thicker or more rigid materials, it does so without compromising the efficiency of acoustic energy transmission.

Understanding Material Constraints

The Balance of Attenuation

In high-frequency ultrasound applications, material selection is unforgiving. Any material with higher acoustic impedance would result in signal loss or heat generation at the interface.

LDPE is selected because it minimizes this risk. It prevents the "filtering" of therapeutic energy that would occur with denser polymers.

The Necessity of Optical Feedback

Many acoustically transparent materials are opaque or cloudy. Using such materials would render the integrated microscopic imaging system useless.

LDPE prevents the need for separate acoustic and optical windows. It unifies these functions into a single interface, simplifying the device design while maintaining feedback loops.

Making the Right Choice for Your Goal

When evaluating materials for acoustic treatment interfaces, consider your specific monitoring and delivery requirements.

  • If your primary focus is energetic efficiency: Rely on LDPE for its ability to transmit 20 MHz frequencies with negligible attenuation, ensuring maximum power delivery to the tissue.
  • If your primary focus is operational precision: Leverage LDPE’s high visual light transmission to enable continuous, high-resolution microscopic observation of the treatment area.

By utilizing LDPE, you effectively eliminate the barrier between the energy source, the monitoring system, and the patient.

Summary Table:

Feature Performance Requirement LDPE Advantage
Acoustic Transparency High-frequency (20 MHz) transmission Negligible attenuation & energy loss
Optical Clarity Real-time microscopic monitoring High visible light transmission
Structural Integrity Water chamber containment Durable, flexible sealing medium
Thermal Safety Minimal heat generation at interface Low impedance prevents energy absorption

Elevate Your Clinic with BELIS Precision Technology

At BELIS, we understand that material science is the foundation of effective medical aesthetics. Our professional-grade HIFU systems and advanced laser technologies are engineered with high-performance components to ensure maximum energy delivery and patient safety.

Whether you are looking for High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), Pico/Nd:YAG Lasers, or Body Sculpting solutions (EMSlim, Cryolipolysis), BELIS provides premium salons and clinics with the tools needed for superior clinical outcomes.

Ready to upgrade your practice? Contact us today to explore our specialized medical aesthetic equipment portfolio and discover how our expertise can drive your business success.

References

  1. Tomasz Zawada, Torsten Bove. Strongly Focused HIFU Transducers With Simultaneous Optical Observation for Treatment of Skin at 20 MHz. DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2022.03.002

This article is also based on technical information from Belislaser Knowledge Base .

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