How to get the best ultrasound image

Question 1

What steps should be taken to ensure the best ultrasound image prior to the exam

Answer 1

If possible turn down the ambient light
Appropriate animal preparation
Select the appropriate transducer type
Select the appropriate transducer frequency
Select approximate depth of penetration
Set overall gain and power settings to mid/low values

Question 2

Once the transducer is on the animal and in the correct location, what are the next steps to improve the image?

Answer 2

Adjust depth of penetration so the organ fills the screen
Adjust to focal zone to the middle of the organ
Adjust overall gain (TGC) and power as necessary so that the overall picture quality is good

Question 3

Describe the overall gain of this ultrasound

Answer 3

Gain OK

Question 4

Describe the overall gain of this ultrasound

Answer 4

Gain too low

Question 5

Describe the overall gain of this ultrasound

Answer 5

Gain too high

Question 6

Why does time gain compensation need to be adjusted?

Answer 6

Sound is attenuated when travelling into the tissue, so less sound reaches deeper tissues which therefore appear darker than they should
The gain at different depths is often controlled by 6-8 sliding controls
TGC is adjusted so the tissue has an even consistency

Question 7

What is knobology?

Answer 7

Changing Frequency, depth, focal depth and TGC when moving between organs