In ultrasound, what does the term "artifact" refer to?

In ultrasound, the term "artifact" describes unwanted echoes that can distort the image produced during a sonographic examination. These artifacts can arise from a variety of sources, including equipment limitations, user techniques, or the characteristics of the tissues being scanned. Artifacts can manifest as unusual shadows, extra shapes, or anomalous features that may not correspond to any actual anatomy. Understanding artifacts is crucial for sonographers, as they can impact the interpretation of the ultrasound images, potentially leading to misdiagnosis or confusion about the structures being observed. Identifying and distinguishing artifacts from true anatomical features is an essential skill in sonography to ensure accurate assessments and patient care.