Image Processing in Ultrasound

Vocabulary flashcards related to image processing in ultrasound technology.

Image Processor

Converts echo signal information that has been digitized, filtered, detected, and compressed into images.

Scan Converter

The device that changes the format of echo data into image form for image processing, storage, and display.

Preprocessing

Processing performed on the image as part of the scan conversion process before the image is stored in memory.

Postprocessing

Manipulation of image data after it is stored in memory; changes can be reversed.

Analog Signal

A continuous signal that can take on any value over a range; represented in ultrasound by the real-time information from transducers.

Digital Signal

A discrete signal using binary values (0s and 1s) to represent information; more resistant to noise compared to analog.

Persistence

Averaging of sequential frames to provide a smoother image appearance; improves image quality and reduces noise.

Edge Enhancement

An image processing technique that sharpens the boundaries within an image to make them more detectable.

Pixel Interpolation

A method of constructing new simulated data points to fill in gaps of missing data, improving image detail.

Spatial Compounding

Combining sonographic information from multiple imaging angles to produce a single image.

Volume Imaging

Three-dimensional imaging technology that creates 3D images using a 2D array arranged in a checkerboard pattern.

Binary System

A system that uses only two digits, 0 and 1, to represent information in digital devices.

Pixel Density

The number of pixels per inch in an image; higher density means more detail.

Bit

The smallest amount of computer memory that holds a binary value of 0 or 1.

Contrast Resolution

The ability of the imaging system to distinguish between different shades of gray.

Voxels

The three-dimensional equivalent of a pixel, representing a volume in 3D imaging.

Cine Loop

A feature that allows the review of the last several frames acquired before an image is frozen.

Read Magnification

A postprocessing function to enlarge a selected part of an image without rescanning.

Write Magnification

A preprocessing function where new image data is acquired for a selected region of interest.

B color

A postprocessing technique that presents echo intensities in various colors instead of gray shades.

3D Rendering

Creating a three-dimensional image from 3D data acquired during ultrasound examination.

Temporal Resolution

The ability to accurately capture rapid movement in an image.

Gray Scale

A monochromatic display that represents variations in echo intensity using shades of gray.

Digital-to-Analog Converter (D/A)

Converts digital signals back into analog form for display on ultrasound machines.

Analog-to-Digital Converter (A/D)

Converts analog signals received from transducers into digital form for processing.

Scan Conversion

Process of changing the format of echo data into image form for further processing.

Image Memory

The storage location for images after scanning and processing in ultrasound.

Frame Rate

The speed at which frames are acquired and displayed; affects the quality of real-time imaging.

Signal Processor

Part of the ultrasound machine that detects, filters, and compresses echo signals.

Smoothing

An image processing function that reduces noise and improves the overall quality of the image.

Artifact

An error in the image caused by limitations in imaging technology or incorrect user settings.

Sonographer

The technician who operates ultrasound machines and interprets the images produced.

Real-Time Imaging

A form of imaging that captures and displays video images as they occur.

3D Volume

A collection of multiple 2D slices used to create a three-dimensional image.

Signal Filtering

The process of removing unwanted components from the echo signal to improve image quality.

Quantization

The process of mapping a continuous range of values (the signal) into a finite range of discrete values.

Digital Imaging

The method of creating a visual representation from digital data.

Image Enhancement

Techniques used to improve the quality and appearance of images.

Echo Data

The reflected sound waves received and processed to form an image in ultrasound.

Gain Control

Adjustment of the amplification of the ultrasound signal to optimize image quality.

Color Doppler

A technique that uses the Doppler effect to measure and visualize blood flow in ultrasound images.

Transducer

A device that emits and receives ultrasound waves, playing a central role in image acquisition.

Noise Reduction

Methods used to decrease the amount of noise in the image, enhancing clarity.

Depth Resolution

The ability to distinguish two structures that are close together in depth.

Spatial Resolution

The ability to distinguish between two closely spaced objects in the imaging plane.

Dynamic Range

The range of intensities that can be detected or represented in an image.

Signal Amplitude

The strength of the echo signal, indicative of the density of the tissue being imaged.

Three-Dimensional Arrays

Transducers with elements arranged in a 3D pattern, allowing for comprehensive volume imaging.

Image Artifacts

False or misleading features in an ultrasound image resulting from technical limitations.

Real-time 4D Imaging

An enhanced imaging technique that allows for the visualization of dynamic processes in 3D.

Doppler Ultrasound

A specific ultrasound technique used to measure blood flow velocities and directions.

Scan Line Density

The number of scan lines per unit area; affects the overall resolution of the image.

Sonographic Imaging

The process of using sound waves to produce images of internal body structures.

Display Resolution

The detail an imaging display can show, influenced by pixel density.

Algorithm

A set of rules or calculations used by the image processor to produce the final images.

Contrast Adjustment

Postprocessing manipulation of the contrast of an image to enhance visibility.

Spatial Averaging

Technique used in digital imaging to improve image quality by averaging nearby pixels.

Region of Interest (ROI)

The specific area of an image selected for closer inspection or analysis.

Ultrasound Wave Propagation

The movement of ultrasound waves through different tissues in the body.

Tissue Harmonics

An advanced imaging technique that improves the clarity of ultrasound images by utilizing harmonic frequencies.

Bistable Imaging

An imaging technique that uses only two shades: black and white.

Volume Rendering

A technique to visualize 3D data sets, commonly used in conjunction with 3D imaging.

M-mode Imaging

Motion-mode imaging that captures motion over time in a single line of data.