SAIT DMST 202: Ultrasound Scanning Fundamentals (Week 1)

Vocabulary flashcards covering image evaluation concepts (Depth, Focus, Gain, TGC/LGC, Landmarks, Annotation, Measurements, Window/Fields, Axis, Orientation, and image quality) as well as ergonomics and WRMSD concepts and related tools/exercises.

Depth

The image depth setting that determines how far into the tissue the ultrasound beam displays; adjusted to include anatomy of interest.

Focus

The depth zone where the ultrasound beams converge to maximize resolution at the area of interest; can be moved to position of interest.

Gain

Overall brightness of the ultrasound image produced by amplifying returning echoes; adjusted to optimize visibility.

TGC

Time Gain Compensation; depth-dependent amplification to compensate for attenuation and produce uniform brightness with depth.

LGC

LGC (Echo Only) – a gain control noted in slides for adjustments related to lateral/echo-specific aspects.

Landmarks

Anatomic reference points used to orient images and verify anatomy during scanning.

Anatomy and Landmarks

The criterion to display the required anatomy and recognizable landmarks for each image/sweep.

Annotation

Labeling of the image with organ name, side, and plane to document orientation and findings.

Measurements

Use calipers to quantify structures along the correct plane and axis (often along the longest axis).

Optimization

Process of adjusting Depth, Focus, Gain, TGCs/LGCs, Frequency, sharp borders, true axis of organ, and probe orientation to improve image quality.

Frequency

The transducer frequency; higher frequencies yield better resolution but less penetration, while lower frequencies penetrate deeper with reduced resolution.

Near field

The region closest to the transducer; often brighter and more challenging for uniform interpretation due to proximity to the probe.

Far field

The deeper region in the image beyond the near field; depth-related attenuation affects brightness and detail.

True Axis of Organ

The anatomical longitudinal axis used for accurate measurements and to avoid foreshortening.

Probe Orientation

The position and marker orientation of the ultrasound probe; affects image orientation and interpretation.

Inverted Image

An image displayed upside-down or with reversed orientation due to incorrect probe setup or handling.

Foreshortened

An organ or structure appearing shorter than its true length due to improper imaging plane or angle.

Window

The image frame or window used to display a particular depth and range; selecting the appropriate window improves visualization.

Aorta

A major vessel commonly assessed in ultrasound; used here as an example of anatomy to evaluate.

WRMSD

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorder; a common injury among sonographers from repetitive tasks, force, and awkward postures.

Repetitive Strain Injury

Another term for WRMSD; injury resulting from repeated movements and overuse.

Causes of WRMSD

Contributing factors include force, repetition/workload, awkward postures, and contact pressure.

Affected Areas

Body regions commonly impacted: shoulders, neck, lower back, elbow, and wrist.

Symptoms

Pain, inflammation, swelling, burning/tingling, numbness, eye strain, and headaches related to WRMSD.

Ergonomics

The science of designing work tasks and equipment to fit the user and prevent injury.

Pre-scan Checklist

Tasks before scanning: stretch, position patient close, adjust chair/bed, ensure monitor/console accessibility.

During-scan Checklist

Posture and technique checks during scanning: head over neck, neutral wrists, 90° elbows, C-shaped probe grip.

Post-scan Checklist

Post-scan care: stretch and monitor for unusual symptoms.

Transducer Grip

How the probe is held; aim for a relaxed C-shaped grip and use the whole arm to apply pressure rather than the wrist.

C-shaped Grip

A common, ergonomic grip where the hand forms a C around the probe to reduce finger strain.

Anti-fatigue Mat

A floor mat used to reduce leg fatigue during long scans.

Foot Stool

A small stool to support feet and maintain proper leg and back posture.

Cable Brace

Device or arrangement to manage cables and reduce strain/tripping hazards.

Stretching Poster

Visual guide displayed in the workspace outlining recommended stretches.

Theraband

Elastic resistance bands used for strengthening and conditioning exercises for the upper body.

Handgrip

Devices or exercises aimed at strengthening the hands and forearms.

Trigger Point Massager

A tool used for self-mmassage to relieve muscle knots and tension.

Patient Setup

Positioning the patient to minimize operator strain and optimize access to the target anatomy.

Shoulder Elevation Stretch

A shoulder stretch that elevates and relaxes the trapezius and shoulder muscles.

Corner Stretch

A chest/pectoral stretch performed in a corner to open the chest and improve posture.

Neck Retraction

A cervical spine exercise that retracts the head to align the neck and reduce strain.

Pectoralis Stretch

A stretch targeting the chest muscles, often performed with a doorway or partner assist.