What are the Different Types of Sonograms?
Sonography is a thriving sector of healthcare that attracts many professionals who possess the technical proficiency to operate the ultrasound machine and map out a diagram of the patient's internal makeup through sound waves. Let's take a look at the different types of sonogram test you could be called upon to perform as a sonographer.
Breast Sonography
The primary method for determining the presence of cancer cells in the chest is by conducting a test which uses a special form of x-rays known as mammograms. Since the use of mammograms often leads to inconclusive results, doctors also frequently conduct breast sonography in order to verify the results of the mammogram.
Echocardiography
In this method of ultrasound testing, a diagnostic image of the heart is created as it pumps blood. The image is supplied to cardiologists and cardiac surgeons, who use them to detect abnormalities in the valves or the heart's operation. A form of ultrasound known as Doppler imaging is used for creating the image, which is able to make various calculations pertaining to the speed, direction and volume of blood that flows into and out of the heart. You need separate certificates in order to conduct Doppler imaging on adults, children, and fetuses.
Vascular Technology
This form of ultrasound is closely related to echocardiography, in which the ultrasound is used to locate areas of the blood vessels that have undergone damage or become blocked, and to ascertain the rate of flow of blood through the veins and arteries.
Musculoskeletal Sonography
For a doctor, being able to identify joint injuries and abnormalities can be a difficult task, since the soft tissues of muscles and ligaments are hidden beneath bone tissue, which is denser. Using an ultrasound allows the doctor to monitor injuries and receive real-time images of the parts of the joints that have been damaged. This test also helps in the patient's recovery, where the physician and orthopedic surgeons use the images to guide them in their treatment of the injury.
Neurosonology
Sonographs are used to study blood vessels that are housed within the brain, and which have undergone blockages or damage, or are flawed in some way, which can lead to death or debilitating strokes. Nuerosonology is also used to trace the existence of tumors or similar problems in the cranial region.
Abdominal Sonography
As a sonographer, you will work with physicians to diagnose conditions which affect the abdomen and its internal organs. Many types of complications including kidney stones, gallstones and tumors are yielded from an abdominal sonogram test.
Obstetrics
The most well-known occupation on this list, sonographers who specialize in obstetrics provide images of fetuses in the womb. But there is a lot more to the job than simply providing the images. You will be charged with monitoring the fetus and supervising its growth and development. You will have to keep an eye out for any abnormalities relating to the fetus or to the parent, which can take the form of cysts, ectopic pregnancies, or other issues.
Learning to Become an Ultrasound Technician
In order to become a fully certified technician, you have to obtain the proper education. An associate of applied science degree in diagnostic ultrasound is needed to perform this job. A traditional program could take you two years to earn this degree. Accelerated programs now offer you the chance to earn your degree faster and start working sooner.
Your coursework could comprise of biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and physics. Previous experience in healthcare is always a plus. You could learn about the various practical aspects of the job, which include:
- How to operate equipment which is used to produce and record images and conduct tests.
- How to participate in consultations with physicians in order to make a satisfactory diagnosis.
- Understanding which parts of the body can be subjected to an ultrasound, such as breast tissue, brain and spinal cord muscles, ligaments, tendons, joints, and the organs which reside within the abdominal cavity.
- How to specialize in one particular aspect of sonography, such as producing images which focus solely on blood vessels, on the cranial cavity, or the abdomen.
- How to interact with patients who are nervous about the procedure, and how to make a diagnosis and relay the results to the doctor based on your own personal judgment.
Could you see yourself specializing in one of these sonography fields? If you're interested in earning an Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, consider ECPI University for the education you need to get started. With an accelerated schedule and year-round classes, you could finish school sooner and start work faster. Connect with an expert admissions advisor to discuss your options.
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