The Field of Ultrasound

Note: this website is being updated

This site is being updated. For further information about the Ultrasound Program at this time, please email the Program office at imagingprograms@bcc.ctc.edu, or call (425) 564-2316.

What is Ultrasound?

Diagnostic Ultrasound is a non-invasive medical imaging technology that uses high frequency sound waves to form an image of body tissues. Information obtained from these images can be utilized along with other patient data in order to arrive at a medical diagnosis. Ultrasound, when compared to other imaging modalities like MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CT (Computed Tomography), is a relatively low cost, non-invasive procedure that does not utilize either magnetic fields or ionizing radiation (x-rays).

Who Works with Ultrasound?

Diagnostic Ultrasound is performed by a sonographer. Good sonographers have excellent communication and critical thinking skills, are able to work well with others, and perform well independently. Because diagnostic ultrasound is a progressive medical science, sonographers must be willing to maintain their knowledge and expertise through participation in continuing medical education. Sonographers work with sonologists, cardiologists, vascular surgeons, and other physicians in order to arrive at a diagnosis for the patient.

Where is Ultrasound Used?

Recent improvements in ultrasound equipment have so dramatically improved image quality and ease of use that the technology is used in almost every branch of medicine. Today sonographers image many areas of the body, including:

• Obstetrics
• Gynecology
• Abdomen
• The Vascular System
• Heart
• Brain
• Prostate
• Breast
• Musculoskeletal

Diagnostic Ultrasound is also assuming an increasing role in the diagnosis of animal disorders in veterinary medicine.

Visitor # 101472 since May 5th, 2004