Delving into the world of Ultrasound

​Students pursuing careers in the fields of medicine and life science gain valuable knowledge into ultrasound as they understand not only how it works but also the mechanisms that produce images from sound waves.  Students are introduced to the technology by watching a series of short videos in which experts in the field describe their use of the device and the physics behind it.  Homework and lab activities focus on the following topics:

In the YouTube video series above, OHSU's Dr. Bentz breaks down the science of ultrasound.  Ultrasound devices take advantage of the physics of sound waves to create a visual display of structures that would otherwise be inaccessible for viewing. In medicine, this means ultrasound acts as a powerful diagnostic tool. Not only can anatomical structures be evaluated, but real-time images can be produced. Harnessing the Doppler effect makes examining blood flow and temporal irregularities possible. However, a knowledge of not only sound but the nature of its interaction with tissues and fluids is necessary to properly interpret ultrasound images.