Ultrasound Physics Vocabulary

Hemodynamics

is the study go blood moving through the circulatory system.

Eddy Current or Vortex

small, hurricane-like, swirling, rotational patterns appear in turbulent flow.

Kinetic energy

is determined by an object’s mass and the speed at which it moves

Pressure energy

a form of stored or potential energy. A major form of energy for circulating blood and creates flow by overcoming resistance.

Gravitational energy

a form of stored or potential energy. Is associated with any elevated object.

Viscosity

describes the thickness of a fluid.

Hematocrit

is the percentage of blood made up of red blood cells.

Frictional loss

occur when flow energy is converted to heat as one object rubs against another.

Inertia

relates to the tendency of a fluid to resist changes in its viscosity.

Stenosis

is a narrowing in the lumen of a vessel.

Bernoulli’s Principle

describes the relationship between velocity and pressure in a moving fluid.

Hydrostatic Pressure

pressure related to the weight of blood pressing on a vessel measured at a height above or below heart level.

Supine

flat on your back.