Course Content
Introduction
Ultrasound guidance in SWL is highly operator-dependent. This introduction explains why image quality, knobology, probe handling, and basic ultrasound understanding are essential for accurate stone localisation and safer treatment.
0/1
Introduction
02:18
Ultrasound Fundamentals
This section introduces the basic principles behind ultrasound imaging. Learners will understand how ultrasound waves travel through the body, why different tissues create different echoes, and why stones appear bright with acoustic shadowing. The section also explains key concepts such as acoustic impedance, attenuation, and frequency, which form the foundation for better image optimisation during SWL.
0/6
How is does ultrasound work?
00:51
Acoustic Impedance
00:24
Why stone appears bright?
00:33
Acoustic Shadowing
00:20
Attenuation
00:21
Frequency
00:54
Knobology
Knobology introduces the key ultrasound controls that shape image quality, including depth, gain, focus, frequency, and dynamic range. This section helps learners understand how small setting adjustments can make the image clearer and easier to interpret.
0/10
Introduction to Knowbology
00:35
Gain
01:53
Depth
01:57
Focus
01:39
Frequency
00:54
Time Gain Compensation
01:20
Auto Optimisation
00:45
Dynamic Range
01:02
Practical Rules
00:48
Summary of Knobology
00:42
Image Optimizing
Image optimisation teaches learners how to improve ultrasound image quality using practical adjustments such as depth, gain, focus, frequency, TGC, and probe handling. This section helps build a structured approach to producing clearer, more reliable ultrasound images.
0/3
Simple Optimization Sequence
02:18
Why Optimisation and Steps
01:05
Identification of Stone
01:00
Advance Processing
Advanced processing introduces ultrasound image enhancement tools that can improve clarity, contrast, edge definition, and tissue detail. This section helps learners understand how processing features support image optimisation beyond basic knobology.
0/8
Why Advanced Processing?
00:52
Spatial Compunding
01:10
Tissue Harmonics
01:16
Noise Reduction
01:33
Averaging
00:17
Edge Enhancement
00:56
Doppler
05:05
Summary of Advanced Processing
00:36
Practical Tips
Practical tips bring together simple scanning habits that improve ultrasound image quality in daily use. This section helps learners apply probe handling, patient positioning, image adjustment, and systematic optimisation in a more confident and consistent way.
0/12
Algorithm for Kidney Stone and Ureteric Stone
01:34
Urolithiasis Diagnostic Triad
00:42
Poor vs Optimized Image
01:00
When to On/Off Toggle
00:20
What Defines Stone
01:36
Importance of Acoustic Shadow
00:27
Twinkling vs Shadow
00:46
Probe Movement and Manipulations
00:44
Stone vs Fat
01:35
Common Mistakes
00:42
Common Artifacts
03:04
Troubleshooting Checklist
00:39
Role of Ultrasound in SWL
Ultrasound plays an important role in SWL by helping localise the stone, guide targeting, and monitor stone position in real time. This section introduces how ultrasound supports more accurate, radiation-free imaging during treatment.
0/4
Role of Ultrasound in SWL
00:36
Challanges
00:42
Optimizing for SWL
00:38
Machine Dependence in SWL
00:47
Take Home Message
0/1
Take Home Message
00:00
Assessment
0/1
Assesment
00:10:00
How to Optimise Ultrasound
About Lesson

Ultrasound is one of the most important imaging tools in shock wave lithotripsy. It allows real-time visualisation, helps reduce dependence on X-ray, and supports continuous monitoring of the stone during treatment. However, ultrasound is also highly operator-dependent. A good image is not produced by the machine alone. It depends on how the operator holds the probe, adjusts the settings, understands the anatomy, recognises artefacts, and interprets the image during treatment.

In clinical practice, the same ultrasound machine can give excellent image quality in one case and poor image quality in another. This difference is often not because of the machine, but because of technique. Small changes in probe angle, depth, gain, focus, frequency, patient position, or acoustic window can completely change the visibility of the kidney and stone.

This course has been designed specifically for shock wave lithotripsy users. It is not a radiology-heavy course, and it does not aim to turn learners into diagnostic sonographers. Instead, it focuses on the practical ultrasound knowledge required during SWL. The emphasis is on understanding how ultrasound works clinically, what each important knob does, how stones appear on ultrasound, how to recognise acoustic shadowing, and how to optimise the image before and during treatment.

Learners will also understand why knobology matters. Incorrect settings can lead to poor image quality, missed stones, false confidence, or targeting errors. In SWL, image optimisation is directly linked to treatment accuracy. If the stone is not clearly identified and monitored, shock waves may be delivered inaccurately, reducing treatment effectiveness and increasing unnecessary tissue exposure.

By the end of this introductory section, learners should understand the philosophy of the course: keep ultrasound practical, clinically relevant, machine-independent, and directly connected to better SWL targeting. The aim is to build confidence in using ultrasound not just as an imaging tool, but as an essential part of safe, precise, and effective lithotripsy treatment.

Previous
Next
0% Complete