What is the standard frequency range for diagnostic ultrasound?

The standard frequency range for diagnostic ultrasound falls predominantly between 2 to 20 MHz. This range is crucial because it encompasses the frequencies that provide optimal imaging quality for various diagnostic applications. In general, lower frequencies (around 2 to 5 MHz) are used for deeper structures and large organ imaging due to their greater penetration ability, while higher frequencies (up to 20 MHz) are utilized for imaging superficial structures, providing better resolution due to their shorter wavelengths.

The range from 2 to 20 MHz allows for the versatility required to diagnose conditions in different parts of the body and across varied patient populations. Frequencies above 20 MHz can create high-resolution images ideal for superficial structures, but they may not penetrate deeper tissues effectively, limiting their utility in many diagnostic scenarios. Thus, the chosen frequency range adequately balances image clarity and tissue penetration, making it standard practice in the field of diagnostic ultrasound.