Question: One ultrasound physics topic from this term that really stood out to me is transducer frequency and how it affects image quality, especially the balance
One ultrasound physics topic from this term that really stood out to me is transducer frequency and how it affects image quality, especially the balance between penetration and resolution. At first, frequency felt like just another physics concept to memorize, but once we started scanning in lab, it became much easier to understand how it actually applies to real exams. Frequency refers to how fast sound waves vibrate and is measured in megahertz (MHz). High frequency transducers produce shorter wavelengths, which results in better resolution and a clearer image, but they do not penetrate very deep. This makes them ideal for superficial structures such as vessels and the thyroid. Low frequency transducers produce longer wavelengths that can travel deeper into the body. While this improves penetration, the resolution is lower, which means the image is not as sharp. I really noticed this difference during the thyroid protocol, where we were required to take images using both a linear and a curvilinear transducer. When scanning with the linear probe, the thyroid tissue and borders appeared much clearer and more detailed. The resolution was noticeably better, making it easier to identify the lobes and surrounding anatomy. When switching to the curvilinear probe, the image still showed the thyroid, but it was not nearly as clear. Even though the curvilinear transducer allows for deeper penetration, it was clear that it was not the best choice for a superficial structure like the t
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