Frame rate refers to the number of individual image frames that the ultrasound system generates and displays each second, measured in hertz or frames per second. A higher frame rate produces smoother, more fluid-looking real-time images, which is particularly important when imaging rapidly moving structures like heart valves. However, frame rate involves a trade-off with image quality and field of view: increasing the depth, width, or number of focus zones all require more time per frame, reducing the frame rate. Sonographers must balance these factors, and in echocardiography, maintaining an adequate frame rate is especially important for accurate assessment of wall motion and valve function.
Sonography Term