| abstract |
A method of recording data in a file, the data being associated with the operation of a combined ultrasound and optoacoustic imaging system is disclosed. The method comprises generating a plurality of sinograms each reflective an of an optoacoustic return signal responsive to a light event, and associating each sinogram with a value that can be used to determine its temporal order. The method also comprises generating a plurality of ultrasound images each reflective an of an ultrasound return signal responsive to generated ultrasound, and associating each ultrasound with a value that can be used to determine its temporal order. The method also comprises storing, without concern for the precise order of the frames in the file, the sinogram and ultrasound data in frames, the frames including the values associating the sinograms and ultrasound images with their temporal order, so that the order and timing of the data underlying the frames can be reconstructed from the information in the file. |