Slice-thickness artifact, also known as partial volume artifact, occurs in ultrasound when the ultrasound beam has a finite thickness, causing structures outside the intended imaging plane to be included in the image. This phenomenon can lead to misinterpretation, as it can mimic pathology or obscure true anatomical features. It is particularly relevant in medical imaging, where accurate visualization is crucial for diagnosis.
Optimizing ultrasound settings and understanding beam properties are essential to minimize slice-thickness artifacts. By recognizing this artifact, sonographers and radiologists can improve image interpretation, ensuring more precise diagnostic assessments in various medical and ultrasound applications.