Dynamic range in ultrasound imaging affects the number of gray shades displayed in a 2-D image. Adjusting the dynamic range changes how echo signals are mapped to grayscale. A higher dynamic range means more shades of gray are displayed, providing a more detailed and softer image, which is useful for differentiating subtle tissue textures. Conversely, a lower dynamic range increases contrast by displaying fewer shades of gray, making the image appear more black and white. This adjustment is crucial for optimizing image quality based on the specific diagnostic needs.
Reference:
American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). Sonography Principles and Instrumentation (SPI) Examination Review Guide.