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Ultrasound technology is one of the most preferred diagnostic tools by medical professionals around the globe due to its safe and non-invasive method of visualising internal organs using sound waves. Gaining an understanding of these is a must-have knowledge for medical professionals wishing to develop their careers to global standards.
Understanding Ultrasound Technology
Gaining a complete understanding of the ultrasound and understanding ultrasound technology basics is necessary for most medical professionals, as it tremendously boosts the scope of your career.
Ultrasound technology is based on the simple principle of sound transmission. In simpler terms, the technology involves the following key steps:
1. Sound wave generation using a transducer
Making use of a transducer, the ultrasound machine emits a series of high-frequency sound waves, usually between 2 to 18 MHz. Due to their frequency being beyond the human hearing range, making them ideal for medical imaging.
2. Interaction of sound waves with tissues
Upon entering the body, the sound waves pass through different types of tissues, and based on the difference in densities, varying amounts of waves are reflected back into the transducer in the form of echoes.
3. Images created using reflected waves
The reflected echoes are converted into electrical signals and turned into real-time images using advanced computer algorithms. These images are then visually presented through the ultrasound screen.
Principles behind ultrasound image formation
The process of image creation and processing is an intricate subject involving various techniques like:
Acoustic Impedance: Different tissues have varying levels of sound wave transmission rates, which determines how much of the wave is reflected.
Time-of-Flight Calculation: The depth is precisely measured by making use of the time taken for sound waves to return.
Intensity Mapping: The contrast between brightness and darkness is determined by calculating the strength of the returning echo corresponding to a particular point.
Types of Ultrasound Imaging
There are various types of ultrasound imaging based on the instrument used and the visual imagery output necessary for an accurate diagnosis of a particular case.
- B-Mode (Brightness Mode)
- M-Mode (Motion Mode)
- Doppler Ultrasound
- Colour Doppler
Basic Ultrasound Terms
The following are the key terms and concepts every student should know about ultrasound technology.
Transducer: The multifaceted device that both generates and receives the sound waves.
Gain: The controller of the intensity of the ultrasound images. Which effectively helps you in gauging the right amount of contrast between the brightness and darkness.
Resolution: The contrast determiner to effectively grasp the difference between nearby structures. Which is further classified into more subterms based on their functionality.
- Temporal resolution
- Spatial resolution
- Lateral resolution
- Axial resolution
- Contrast resolution
Medical ultrasound is a fascinating technology derived through the integration of various scientific disciplines. Creating a wonderful medical diagnostic tool that has been advancing and acting as a core tool in acquiring insights in a safe manner. Understanding ultrasound technology is an essential part of becoming a proficient healthcare professional, and learning the general key terms is just the beginning.
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Authored By: Sanad Beevi
By : Admin
