What does scattering refer to in the context of ultrasound?

Scattering in the context of ultrasound refers to the phenomenon that occurs when sound waves encounter small structures or irregularities in the medium through which they are traveling. This interaction causes the ultrasound beam to radiate in multiple directions instead of following a straight path.

When ultrasound waves hit small tissues or structures within the body, they may scatter due to their size being similar to or larger than the wavelength of the ultrasound. This scattered energy can enhance the diagnostic capability of ultrasound imaging by providing information about the size, shape, and composition of various tissues. This scattering effect is particularly important for imaging in areas with fine structures, helping sonographers obtain clearer and more detailed images.

In contrast, uniform spreading of beams describes a phenomenon that does not specifically define scattering. Reflection of sound waves is a different interaction where sound waves bounce off larger structures rather than scattering. Additionally, while loss of energy as heat can occur in ultrasound, it is not directly related to the concept of scattering but rather to absorption. Therefore, recognizing what scattering specifically entails helps reinforce understanding of ultrasound physics and its application in cardiac sonography.