A beam width artifact in medical ultrasound occurs when the finite width of the ultrasound beam averages echoes from structures both within and adjacent to the intended path. This can lead to the appearance of false echoes or the blurring of small structures, making accurate diagnosis challenging. It is particularly noticeable with cystic lesions, where internal echoes might be falsely depicted, or with vessels that appear wider than they truly are.
Understanding and recognizing beam width artifacts is crucial for sonographers and radiologists to avoid misinterpretations. These artifacts can obscure true pathology or create misleading appearances, impacting diagnostic confidence. Proper transducer selection, focusing, and gain adjustments can help minimize their impact, ensuring clearer, more reliable ultrasound images for improved patient care.
