The Uses of Ultrasound Imaging Ultrasound technology, also called diagnostic medical sonography or simply sonography, is a medical diagnostic tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images of a person's internal organs, tissues and blood. Using a small wand-like instrument called a transducer, sound waves are transmitted into a specific part of the body such as the abdomen or chest, and the returning echo waves are captured and converted into images. These images are known as "ultrasound scans" or "sonograms." Doctors use ultrasound scans to find abnormalities of the internal organs and diagnose illness, as well as to monitor the health of developing fetuses in pregnant women.  The History of Ultrasound Imaging Ultrasound imaging was first developed during World War II to locate submerged objects underwater. This sonar method was eventually adapted for medical use and ultrasound imaging is now widely used in almost every branch of medicine. The technology is rapidly advancing, with 3D and even "4D" (3D video images displayed in real time) ultrasound machines being adopted to medical applications at hospitals and clinics across the US. Ultrasound Imaging Specialties Ultrasound imaging is increasingly used to diagnose internal medical conditions because unlike other medical imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT (computed tomography) scans or nuclear medicine, ultrasound doesn't use or emit radiation into the body. This makes ultrasound imaging a popular method for testing pregnant women and babies, who are at high risk for complications associated with radiation. However, there are many other ways in which ultrasound imaging is used to diagnose illness in the body. Here is a list of common ultrasound imaging specialties: Abdominal Abdominal sonographers specialize in generating images of the internal organs and tissues located within the abdomen such as the liver, pancreas, spleen and gallbladder. Breast Breast sonography is a specialty that works in tandem with another medical imaging technique, mammography. Breast sonographers conduct ultrasound scans using a sound frequency specifically targeted for breast tissue to evaluate tumors and other abnormalities found in mammograms or physical exams. Obstetrics/Gynecology (OB/GYN) In one of the most well-known specialties, OB/GYN sonographers work exclusively with women to survey their reproductive organs and track the health and development of fetuses during pregnancy. Echocardiography Sonographers specializing in echocardiography (EKG) are trained in the evaluation and imaging of the heart, its related valves and vessels, and blood flow to and from the heart. However, these duties are increasingly being given to lower-level health care personnel, such as nurses' aides, who are trained on the job in just a few months. Vascular Technology Vascular technologists are trained to use special equipment designed to visually track blood flow in other areas of the body. Neurosonology Sonographers who work in neurosonology are specially trained to use ultrasound imaging on the brain and spinal cord. Ophthalmology Ophthalmology sonographers perform diagnostic tests on the eyes and surrounding muscles and tissue. The Value of Your Ultrasound Training Ultrasound technicians who obtain certification in more than one of the above areas are often considered especially valuable by potential employers since they only have to hire one technician to perform multiple procedures in multiple departments. Ultrasound imaging offers well-paid, stable and rewarding careers. Read more about ultrasound technician careers, or take the first step toward an ultrasound technician career by finding an ultrasound school near you. |
