In ultrasound physics, the duty factor represents the fraction of time the ultrasound transducer is actively transmitting sound waves. It’s calculated as the pulse duration divided by the pulse repetition period. A higher duty factor means the transducer is transmitting for a longer proportion of the total time, impacting parameters like imaging depth and thermal effects on tissues.
Understanding duty factor is crucial for optimizing medical ultrasound. Sonographers adjust this parameter to balance image quality with patient safety, as excessive transmission can lead to increased thermal index and potential tissue heating. Proper management of the duty factor ensures diagnostic efficacy while adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles in diagnostic sonography.
