Introduction to How Ultrasound Works

Ultrasound technology is a regular part of today's medical industry. Ultrasounds are used to view developing babies and see a person's insides for the purpose of diagnosing and analyzing illnesses and injuries. Ultrasound equipment is typically operated by a sonographer, someone who has been specifically trained in its use.

Identification

• Ultrasounds work by using sound waves to create images that allow a doctor and other medical personnel to see structures inside of your body. The sound waves are transported from your body to a computer screen for analyzing. They are then transformed into images and video of the body structures. Ultrasounds are also used for guiding certain types of medical procedures like needle biopsies.

Function

• A transducer is an ultrasound device used to capture the sound waves. A transducer is placed on the skin above the body part to be examined. It then emits a sound, which is bounced off the structures in your body. The sound that bounces off your organs is transported from the transducer to a computer for analyzing. In some cases, the transducer is not placed outside the body but is used inside instead. For example, a woman may have a transvaginal--through the vagina--ultrasound when a doctor wants to get a good look at her cervix or needs to obtain images very early in pregnancy.

Considerations

• Ultrasound technology produces clear views of inner structures of the body. Body parts can be identified by shape and size as well as their distance from other organs and bodily tissues. Ultrasound technology produces quality images of soft tissues and organs, and ultrasound waves penetrate fluids quite easily. In fact, it is often easier to gain quality images of organs that have fluid in them, such as the bladder and uterus. Ultrasounds are also good for producing images of the blood vessels.

Misconceptions

• It is a misconception that ultrasounds are good for viewing all parts of the body. Sound waves aren't very good for producing ultrasound images of or through bone. Likewise, gas can get in the way of ultrasound waves. The lungs are difficult to capture as well.

Effects

• According to the Mayo Clinic, there are no known harmful effects of using ultrasounds. This type of imaging doesn't use radiation. As such, it is considered safe for pregnant women and developing fetuses.