Ultrasound - Diagnostic imaging arrays

Question 1

What are the different probe types available?

3 types

Answer 1

Linear array, curvilinear array, phased array

Question 2

What are linear arrays used for?

Answer 2

Imaging superficial structures e.g blood vessels in the neck or legs

Question 3

What are curvilinear arrays used for?

Answer 3

elements lie on a curve, field of view gets wider with depth. Used to image fetuses and abdominal organs

Question 4

What are phased arrays used for?

Answer 4

small footprints used where there is a limited window for imaging at the skin surface but a wider field of view is needed at depth. narrower but deeper imaging. e.g the heart

Question 5

What is the kerf?

Answer 5

the small space between elements in an imaging array

Question 6

What is the pitch?

Answer 6

The centre to centre distance of elements