n. the study of the uses and properties of sound waves of very high frequency (see ultrasound). —ultrasonic adj.
The use of ultrasonics (see ULTRASOUND) for the purpose of examining the HEART. By thus recording the echo (hence the name) from the heart of ultrasound waves, it is possible to study, for example, the movements of the heart valves as well as the state of the interior of the heart. Safe, reliable and painless, the procedure cuts the need for the physically interventionist procedure of CARDIAC CATHETERISATION.... echocardiography
(in *ultrasonics) the reflection of sound waves from the surface of an internal structure, which can be used to produce a picture of the surface as a sonogram (see ultrasonography). A specular reflection contrasts with vaguer diffuse echoes produced by minor differences in tissue density.... specular reflection
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