Ultrasound

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diagnostic imaging, medical imaging, medical image

Diagnostic Imaging

Diagnosing injuries, diseases and conditions would be nearly impossible today without the range of methods available to look inside the human body. This guide explains the different techniques, how they work, and what to expect if one of them is ordered for you.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

Computed tomography scans, or CT scans, combine X-rays with a computer’s assistance to create ... read more »

Endoscopy

Endoscopy allows doctors to see inside the human body by inserting a narrow tube with an attached ... read more »

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnets, and sub-atomic structures in the body, to look at ... read more »

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine is primarily used to examine organ function rather than structure. To see how an ... read more »

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a procedure used to generate images of structures and tissues within the body. Images are generated by sending sound waves into the body and monitoring their reflections. Use this section of the guide to learn about ultrasounds and how they are performed.

Dulcinea's Insight

  • Ultrasounds are often used to look at fetuses in the womb. Though it is safe, the Food and Drug Administration warns parents against having medically unnecessary ultrasounds at storefront places that offer three- and four-dimensional “keepsake” images.

Dulcinea's Picks

For an overview of ultrasound …
MedlinePlus has an illustrated overview of ultrasound that covers how they work and what patients can expect during them. The presentation is also available in a printable PDF.
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For 3- and 4-dimensional ultrasound …
MedicalPhysicsWeb has an interview with Stephen Smith, a researcher who helped develop the three-dimensional ultrasound technology. Smith talks about how the technology works and its advantages.
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National Geographic News spoke with Professor Stuart Campbell, a leading obstetrician, on four-dimensional ultrasound imagery. Learn how the 4D scans work, their benefits and more.
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For what to expect during an ultrasound …
RadiologyInfo explains what happens during an ultrasound. The site also has more detailed information about ultrasounds on specific parts of the body.
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X-Ray

X-ray technology is one of the oldest imaging methods available. Even though there are more ... read more »

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