What Are the Different Types of Ultrasound Machines?

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Ultrasound or sonography machines use high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the inside of the body. They can be used to follow fetus development, diagnose medical conditions, guide medical procedures, and monitor treatments. These sonograms help healthcare providers view organs, tissues, and blood flow without needing surgery or exposing patients to radiation. And while all ultrasound machines work the same way, there are different types used for different purposes. As a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, you might specialize in one kind of imaging but knowing about several can make you a more versatile member of any healthcare team.

2D Ultrasound Machines

A basic ultrasound machine uses 2D imaging. This type of ultrasound produces flat images of the body part or area being scanned. These 2D machines are commonly used when taking images for pregnancy, bone scans, and even routine dental checkups. A benefit of 2D imaging is that it emits no radiation but can still be used to view soft tissue and bone surfaces.

3D Ultrasound Machines

A 3D ultrasound machine provides greater detail in the images it generates than a 2D machine. The 3D images create a structured model for the area of the body, giving physicians a much more detailed look so they can more accurately diagnosis medical issues. These 3D images are often used when examining the heart and unborn fetuses, as well as the muscular and skeletal systems.

4D Imaging

The 4D ultrasound machines provide enhanced details and include the use of the fourth dimension of time. A 4D ultrasound can also be taken in color and can detect abnormalities that 2D images cannot. This imaging technique takes a series of 3D images to track developing infections, tumors, and other abnormalities over a period of time.

Doppler Ultrasounds

Doppler machines use high-frequency sound waves that bump into and off of blood cells as they move through the body. These ultrasound machines are used to form images of the blood vessels and to detect the constriction of blood flow. Doppler sonograms can help doctors identify blood clots or clogged arteries and monitor the lung and vascular health of their patients.

Echocardiography

An echocardiogram is a type of ultrasound that shows how the heart beats and pumps blood, helping doctors detect conditions like valve problems, heart defects, or heart failure. Different types of echocardiograms include Transthoracic (TTE), the standard scan, and Transesophageal (TEE), a more in-depth image that provides a detailed look at the aorta.

Obstetric/Gynecologic Ultrasound Machines

These scanners are intended for internal use and can take images of the pelvic region. They are used to diagnose problems with the ovaries or uterus such as cysts, tumors, fibroids or other causes of fertility issues and pelvic pain. Similarly, a transrectal scanner can be used to identify tumors or cysts in the rectum or to diagnosis prostate problems.

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Machines

Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound machines are used to visualize muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and soft tissues in real time. They help diagnose injuries like sprains, tears, inflammation, and arthritis, and are often used in sports medicine, orthopedics, and physical therapy. MSK ultrasounds are non-invasive, safe, and provide dynamic imaging—meaning providers can see structures as they move.

Portable Ultrasound Machines

An important advancement in sonography is its portability. Portable machines are smaller than normal equipment and can easily be moved from room to room. This is helpful when the number of patients is high, or space is in short supply. Some ultrasound machines employ the use of handheld devices, carts, laptops or tablets to take and process the image.

Are you interested in a career in diagnostic medical sonography? Contact Charter College today. We offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography that can prepare you for an entry-level career sonography. The program can be completed in as few as 16 months and is offered in a blended learning format for flexibility and convenience. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to learn more.

888.200.9942