Microultrasonography operates at much higher frequencies than conventional ultrasound imaging.
Microsonography refers to high-frequency ultrasound imaging techniques that enable visualization of small anatomical structures at near-microscopic resolution, typically in the range of tens of micrometers.
Microultrasonography (sometimes called micro-ultrasound or high-frequency ultrasound) typically operates in the 20-100 MHz range.
This is compared to conventional medical ultrasound which uses frequencies of 2-15 MHz.
This higher frequency allows for improved spatial resolution (often in the range of 15-100 micrometers);more detailed imaging of superficial tissues and small structures; ability to visualize microscopic features in real-time.
The primary trade-off is reduced depth penetration.
Conventional ultrasound can image several centimeters into tissue, microultrasonography is typically limited to a few millimeters due to greater attenuation of high-frequency sound waves.
Key applications include: Dermatological imaging-skin layers and lesions Ophthalmic imaging of the cornea, lens, and retina Prostate biopsy Early cancer detection where microscopic visualization is beneficial. Intravascular imaging Small animal research Intraoperative guidance in neurosurgery and spinal surgery.