D6.v · Ultrasound & Doppler

Official V5 objective

Outline the principles of ultrasound including: a. The generation and detection of the ultrasound, b. The role of the following on the image produced: i. transducer properties including frequency, ii. image resolution, iii. reflection and scattering, iv. attenuation, v. refraction. c. Describe the Doppler Effect and its application for medical ultrasound in the intensive care unit.

1 SAQ topic 4 SAQ appearances 3 VIVA stations

Written examination

SAQ history

4 appearances

Ultrasound & Doppler

4 exam appearances

2024B Q08

Outline the following with respect to ultrasound: (a) The physical principles when used for tissue imaging using the following headings: i. generation and detection of the ultrasound; ii. reflection and scattering; iii. attenuation; iv. refraction. (35% of marks) (b) The relationship between transducer properties, image resolution and tissue penetration. (35% of marks). (c) The principles of the doppler effect and its applications. (30% of marks).

75%

2022A Q17

Write notes on: • The principles of ultrasound • Transducer properties and image resolution • The Doppler effect

23%

2010A Q14

Describe the basic principles of ultrasound imaging including the Doppler effect.

70%

2007B Q04

Describe the principles of ultrasound imaging – including the Doppler Effect.

57%

Oral examination

VIVA history

3 stations

2016B · Day 2 · VIVA 4
This viva tested knowledge of newborn physiology including the transitional circulation, temperature regulation and respiratory physiology. It went on to discuss principles of ultrasounds and central venous pressure measurement.

Pass rate not reported
2013B · VIVA 7
This viva examined anatomy of the neck (specifically to the major vessels), ultrasound and general pharmacology. Candidates were shown an axial ultrasound image of the right neck, taken at the time of insertion of a central line, and asked to identify the major anatomical structures. Overall most candidates performed well, with a good knowledge of ultrasound in general, and of general pharmacodynamics.

94.1% successful
2009A · VIVA 1
This image is of the carotid artery and internal jugular vein. How can you distinguish the two using this form of imaging?

Pass rate not reported

Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.