1. Are all diagnostic ultrasound examinations the same?
2. My doctor has a 2D ultrasound machine. How is 3D / 4D imaging different?
3. What are the advantages of 3D technology?
4. What are the advantages of 4D technology?
5. Why is it called 4D?
6. How long does the diagnostic ultrasound take?
7. Is it safe? Are there any risks to me or my baby?
8. How far along should I be before I have a diagnostic ultrasound?
9. Can I bring my family and friends to view the diagnostic ultrasound?
10. What is Volume Rendering?
11. How long does it take to acquire a volume?
12. What about 2D imaging on the Voluson 730, is the image quality comparable to other 2D ultrasound machines?

Q1: Are all diagnostic ultrasound examinations the same?

A1: No. In fact the quality and diagnosis of ultrasound examinations can vary dramatically. Below are three top factors that directly impact ultrasound imaging:

1. Does the provider use state-of-the-art imaging equipment? Older equipment does not compare with the image quality and capture capabilities of new ultrasound equipment.
   
   
2. Does the provider use an experienced RDMS-certified sonographer, sonologist, or licensed medical practitioner? If the sonographer does not have the professional training and experience required to capture the necessary images, then an anomaly could be missed.
   
   
3. Who will review the images? Board-certified Radiologists or Perinatologists are among the most qulaified to diagnose ultrasound images. If the Doctor does not have the training and experience to read the images and interpret the results correctly, then an anomaly could be missed.
   
   

A best-practices model ultrasound includes state-of-the-art equipment operated by an experienced RDMS-certified sonographer, sonologist, or licensed medical practitioners, with the images being reviewed by a certified radiologist, perinatologist, or qualified OB/GYN. In most cases, catching anomalies early on is very important to the care of the mother and baby.  (Back to Top )

Q2: My doctor has a 2D ultrasound machine. How is 3D / 4D imaging different?

A2: The differences vary dramatically. Many doctors who complete ultrasound examinations in their offices use older 2D ultrasound imaging equipment purchased several years ago. In some cases the technology is 10 to 15 years old or older. With every new advancement in ultrasound imaging technology, the limitations of the older 2D technology become more apparent. Older 2D technology cannot provide the imaging clarity and resolution of newer 2D, 3D and 4D technology.

"2D" stands for 2 dimensional imaging as seen here ->
"3D" stands for 3 dimensional imaging as seen here ->
"4D" stands for 4 dimensional imaging as seen here ->

Currently 3D / 4D imaging does not replace 2D imaging. Many essential elements of the diagnostic process can only be see with 2D imaging. However, 3D / 4D imaging when used appropriately with 2D imaging, can provide unique information and perspective for the diagnostic process. 3D / 4D imaging can greatly enhance the diagnostic process.  (Back to Top )

Q3: What are the advantages of the 3D technology?

A3: Clearer pictures which provide an easier understanding of complex structures which leads to a significant reduction in inaccurate diagnoses. 3D technology coupled with volume data makes it possible to analyze the tissue concerned from multiple angles.  (Back to Top )

Q4: What are the advantages of the 4D technology?

A4: In contrast to other 3D imaging diagnostic processes, 4D allows real-time diagnoses to be made on moving objects or organs. Movement patterns of a fetus allows conclusions to be drawn about their development which can improve the accuracy of the diagnosis. 4D can greatly increase of the accuracy in ultrasound guided biopsies thanks to the full control of needle movements in real time in all 3 planes.  (Back to Top )

Q5: Why was it called 4D?

A5: The scientists needed a way to distinguish this new breakthrough technology from the older 3D imaging technology. Not only did they eliminate the element of time in capturing 3D images, the image quality was far superior to that of traditional 3D imaging. So, the scientists coined the term 4D, with the fourth dimension being "time". Given the impact of these miracle images and the quality and capabilities of this newer technology, the term 4D has been picked up and used by the media in presenting this incredible technology.  (Back to Top )

Q6: How long does the diagnostic ultrasound take?

A6: Most diagnostic ultrasound sessions take 25 minutes, when the baby cooperates. At times, it may be difficult to acquire the necessary images so the examination may take a little longer. In the case of twins or multiple gestation, each baby will take approximately 25 minutes. Therefore, twins would take approximately 50 minutes to complete the diagnostic examination.  (Back to Top )

Q7: Is it safe? Are there any risks to me or my baby?

A7: The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has issued the following statement regarding the safety of ultrasound:

"There are no confirmed adverse biological effects on patients or instrument operators caused by exposures from diagnostic ultrasound instruments. Although the possibility exists that such biological effects may be identified in the future, current data indicate that the benefits to patients of the prudent use of diagnostic ultrasound outweigh the risks, if any, that may be present."  (Back to Top )

Q8: How far along should I be before I have a diagnostic ultrasound?

A8: Your Doctor should be consulted in the decision and timing of a diagnostic ultrasound examination. Most diagnostic ultrasounds are completed between the 15th and 24th week of the pregnancy. Most insurance companies will provide medical reimbursement for the first diagnostic ultrasound examination. Under the direction of their doctor, many mothers have several diagnostic ultrasound examinations during the course of their pregnancy, however for most pregnancies only one diagnostic ultrasound examination is completed.  (Back to Top )

Q9: Can I bring my family and friends to view the diagnostic ultrasound?

A9: The diagnostic ultrasound examination is performed for medical purposes and needs to be performed in an environment that minimizes any distractions for the sonographer. Facilities that provide diagnostic ultrasound examinations vary in their policies regarding family and friends. Please contact the facility that will be completing your diagnostic exam for more information.  (Back to Top )

Q10: What is Volume Rendering?

A10: The Volume Rendering is a calculation process to visualize certain 3D-structures of a scanned volume by means of a 2D-image. Instead of using geometrical information (edges, lines etc.) "Projection Way's" are sent through an 3D-dataset (Volume Block) to analyze the intersecting "Voxels." The render (calculation) algorithm -- surface or transparent mode -- determines how 3D-structures are visualized.  (Back to Top )

Q11: How long does it take to acquire a volume?

A11: The GE Voluson 730 is the only system on the market able to provide real time volume acquisition. The system is displaying images up to 16 volumes/sec, it means that the volume acquisition time is up to 0.06 sec.  (Back to Top )

Q12: What about 2D imaging on the Voluson 730 is the image quality comparable to other 2D ultrasound machines?

A12: 2D imaging is the foundation of most ultrasound imaging. Exceptional 3D / 4D imaging cannot be obtained without exceptional 2D image quality.

The GE Voluson 730 provides exceptional 2D image quality in addition to its outstanding 3D / 4D imaging capabilities.  (Back to Top )