Noise artifact in medical ultrasound refers to random, unwanted echoes or signals that degrade image quality, appearing as a grainy or “snowy” appearance on the display. These distortions can obscure true anatomical structures and subtle pathologies, making accurate diagnosis challenging for sonographers. Common sources include electrical interference, patient movement, or inherent limitations of the ultrasound system.
Effective noise reduction is crucial for optimizing diagnostic ultrasound images. Advanced post-processing algorithms and proper gain adjustments help minimize noise artifacts, enhancing clarity and contrast resolution. Understanding and mitigating noise is essential for precise medical imaging, ensuring reliable interpretations and improved patient care in various ultrasound applications.