AMERICAN RADIOLOGY SERVICES

American Radiology Services Offers 4D Ultrasound Imaging

By: ARS Communications

4D Ultrasound systems mark a new dimension in obstetric imaging. They feature advanced signal processing, which produce higher quality ultrasound images.

4D Ultrasound represents the difference between video and a still photograph. Through this revolutionary technology, your baby's three-dimensional image is continuously updated, providing a "live action" view that leads to a number of medical benefits.

Questions & Answers

WHAT IS "4D"/"4D ULTRASOUND"?
4D Ultrasound takes three-dimensional ultrasound images and adds the element of time to the process.The result is live action images of your unborn child or of any internal anatomy.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF THE 4D TECHNOLOGY?
In contrast to other 3D imaging diagnostic processes, 4D allows your doctor to visualize internal anatomy moving in real time. For example, movement patterns of fetuses allow conclusions to be drawn about their development.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS RELATED TO 3D OR 4D ULTRASOUND?
No. 3D and 4D Ultrasound both utilize sound waves to look inside the body. The technology is similar to radar. A probe placed on the body emits sound waves into the body, listens for the return echo, and generates an image.

DOES A 4D ULTRASOUND EXAM TAKE LONGER THAN A TRADITIONAL ULTRASOUND EXAM?
No. Even though a 4D Ultrasound exam employs slightly different technology, you should not anticipate a longer exam.

WHY DO THE 4D ULTRASOUND IMAGES HAVE A GOLDEN HUE?
Physicians have the option of selecting different tints in reviewing images. The golden hue is aesthetically pleasing to the eye and shows excellent shadows and highlights.

HOW LONG DOES AN ULTRASOUND EXAM LAST?
There are many factors that impact the length of an ultrasound exam, including the position of the baby in the womb. However, a typical exam for an expectant mother lasts approximately 30-50 minutes.

DO I HAVE TO MAKE ANY SPECIAL PREPARATIONS FOR AN ULTRASOUND EXAM?
Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive exam that does not typically require any extensive exam preparation. Still, please consult with your physician or our office on any requirements prior to your appointment.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF THE 4D TECHNOLOGY?
Displaying the entire volume of an object that is being examined makes it possible to analyze the tissue concerned. 4D allows doctors and sonographers to analyze fetal motion.

WHAT IS VOLUME RENDERING?
Volume Rendering is the process of capturing ultrasound image information and compiling it into a three-dimensional image. Volume Rendering allows doctors to visualize internal anatomy in every direction.

BEYOND PRETTY BABY PICTURES, ARE THERE OTHER APPLICATIONS FOR 4D ULTRASOUND?
Yes. It can be used for breast imaging, interventional urology, and general imaging. As with all ultrasound systems, it can be used to research the following:

Detecting fetal abnormalities
Analyzing fetal development
Evaluating multiple and/or high-risk pregnancies

4D Ultrasound is offered at American Radiology Services' Annapolis, Bel Air, Bethesda, Calvert Medical Imaging Center, Frederick, Howard County, Newark, North Point, Owings Mills, Timonium Crossing, Waldorf, Westminster, and White Marsh locations. To schedule an appointment, please call 410.298.0454 or request an appointment online at www.americanradiology.com.