What Ultrasound Images Look Like

Question 1

Myofascia

Answer 1

Myofascia appears as hyperechoic layers which makes it easy to delineate muscles

Question 2

Subcutaneous fat

Answer 2

Appears hypoechoic With characteristic interposed curved hyperechoic lines the form by connective tissue septa

Question 3

Fat scatters

Answer 3

Ultrasonic waves which can diminish the image quality of data structures

Question 4

Tendons

Answer 4

Appear hyperechoic and in long axis they are striated

Question 5

Hyaline axis

Answer 5

Appears hypoechoic

Question 6

Fibrocartilage

Answer 6

Appears hyperechoic and has a homogenous texture

Question 7

Bone

Answer 7

The surface of the bone appears highly echogenic due to the large difference in acoustic impedance between the overlaying soft tissue and bone itself. Since most ultrasonic waves are reflected back to the surface, underlying bone is devoid of signal

Question 8

Nerve

Answer 8

Appears a medium grey with a heterogeneous texture. In long axis they have striated appearance due to the fascicular structure, in short axis nerves have a characteristic Honeycomb appearance

Question 9

Blood vessels

Answer 9

The limit of blood vessels appear anechoic (black) Which contrasts with the hyperechoic wall. Generally arteries are smaller than those and have a thicker wall and sometimes you can observe the valves within veins

Question 10

Ligaments

Answer 10

Appear hyperechoic and a long axis with a laminar appearance

Question 11

Glands

Answer 11

Appear a mid-grey colour and have homogenous texture, fat within glands appear hyperechoic and can surpress transmission deeper into the gland

Question 12

Air

Answer 12

Appears anechoic, will cause shadowing through the image

Question 13

Fluid

Answer 13

Appears anechoic