ARDMS Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation Practice Exam

Overgain in ultrasound imaging refers to the excessive amplification of the received ultrasound signals. When overgain occurs, it can lead to a range of artifacts in the image. Artifacts are misleading features that do not represent actual anatomical structures or tissues. This can result in obscured structures, making it difficult for the clinician to interpret the image accurately.

While some degree of gain is necessary to enhance the visibility of structures within the body, excessive gain can cause some real structures to appear distorted or even entirely misrepresented. For example, shadows, bright spots, or false echoes may appear, complicating the diagnosis and potentially leading to misunderstandings regarding the underlying pathology.

In contrast, improved detail, reduced noise, and enhanced color Doppler flow are typically associated with appropriate gain settings that optimize the image quality without veering into the territory of overgain. Thus, recognizing the effects of overgain is crucial for maintaining clarity and accuracy in ultrasound imaging.