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ARDMS SPI Exam
Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (Page 3 )

Updated On: 7-Feb-2026
Page 3 of 44
PDF with 215 Questions

What is the primary reason to use compression?

  1. Increase line density
  2. Reduce the focal region
  3. Improve the axial resolution
  4. Adjust the contrast resolution

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

Compression in ultrasound imaging adjusts the range of grayscale displayed, affecting the contrast resolution.

This function allows sonographers to enhance the differentiation between structures of varying echogenicities.

By modifying the contrast resolution, sonographers can better visualize subtle differences in tissue composition and improve the diagnostic quality of the images.

Increasing contrast resolution is particularly important in differentiating between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses.


Reference:

ARDMS Sonography Principles and Instrumentation guidelines on image processing and contrast resolution.



Which resolution capability is most affected by spatial pulse length?

  1. Elevational
  2. Temporal
  3. Lateral
  4. Axial

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

Axial resolution refers to the ability to distinguish two structures that are close to each other along the path of the ultrasound beam.

Spatial pulse length (SPL) is the distance over which one pulse occurs, and it directly affects axial resolution.

Shorter SPL improves axial resolution because it allows better differentiation of closely spaced structures.

The axial resolution is improved by increasing the frequency of the transducer, which shortens the wavelength and hence the SPL.


Reference:

ARDMS Sonography Principles and Instrumentation guidelines on resolution parameters and their impact on image quality.



What is the function of M-mode?

  1. Create 3D images
  2. Visualize internal organs
  3. Monitor blood flow
  4. Measure movement

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

M-mode (Motion mode) is used in ultrasound to measure and display the movement of structures over time.

This mode is particularly useful in cardiac imaging to assess the motion of heart walls and valves.

M-mode provides a one-dimensional view of the motion of tissues and is often used in conjunction with 2D imaging for a comprehensive assessment.

It is essential in evaluating the dynamic function of organs, especially in cardiology, where precise measurements of cardiac structures' movement are crucial.


Reference:

ARDMS Sonography Principles and Instrumentation guidelines on modes of ultrasound imaging and their clinical applications.



Which factor has a positive effect on temporal resolution?

  1. Increase in scan depth
  2. Use of spatial compounding
  3. Increase in number of focal zones
  4. Use of narrow sector width

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

Temporal resolution refers to the ability to accurately depict moving structures over time.

A narrow sector width reduces the area being scanned, which increases the frame rate because fewer scan lines are required per frame.

Higher frame rates improve temporal resolution, allowing for better visualization of fast-moving structures.

Other factors like scan depth and the number of focal zones also affect frame rate but typically reduce it when increased, thereby decreasing temporal resolution.


Reference:

ARDMS Sonography Principles and Instrumentation guidelines on factors affecting temporal resolution and frame rate.



Which factor affects temporal resolution?

  1. Display depth
  2. Time gain compensation
  3. Overall gain
  4. Log compression

Answer(s): A

Explanation:

Temporal resolution refers to the ability of an ultrasound system to distinguish between events occurring closely in time. It is primarily affected by the frame rate, which is the number of frames displayed per second. One of the main factors that influence the frame rate is the display depth. The deeper the imaging depth, the longer it takes for the ultrasound pulses to travel to the target and back, thus reducing the frame rate and temporal resolution. Shallower imaging depths allow for higher frame rates and better temporal resolution.


Reference:

ARDMS Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) Exam Study Guide

"Diagnostic Ultrasound: Principles and Instruments" by Frederick W. Kremkau






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