How Do Ultrasound Sonograms Work?
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What Are Ultrasound Sonograms?
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Ultrasound sonograms are images from within the body that are produced through the use of imaging software and reflected sound waves. The use of sound waves instead of radiation or other internal imaging solutions makes ultrasound sonography a safe alternative for a number of individuals who are sensitive to X-rays or MRI imaging. Both 3-D and 4-D ultrasounds are available; 3-D ultrasounds produce a still image, while 4-D ultrasounds show real-time movement similar to a video feed.
Uses of Ultrasound Sonograms
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One of the most common uses of ultrasound sonography is the monitoring of the development of unborn fetuses, as the ultrasound allows doctors and the parents to view the baby with no danger to the fetus itself. Ultrasounds can also be used to detect a number of potentially serious medical conditions such as cancer, thyroid disorders and other medical problems that can arise in soft tissues within the body. Ultrasound sonograms are also used to guide needles that are used to take biopsy samples, and they may also be used to monitor abnormal heart activity.
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Ultrasound Sonogram Equipment and Procedures
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Ultrasound sonograms are generally produced using an external device; though in some cases, an internal sonography device may be implanted instead. For external sonograms, a warm gel is placed on the skin where a device known as a transducer will be placed. The transducer emits pulses of sound waves that travel through the body, with the tissues and bones of the body reflecting the sound waves as they pass through. The transducer records the reflected sound waves and transfers them to a computer that decodes them into a detailed image or images that are then displayed by the ultrasound machine.
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