Ultrasound

Ultrasounds have been around and in use for centuries, continually revolutionizing the medical field. They incorporate advanced technology and science into highly functional medical machinery. Throughout the years, scientist have found a way to develop a modernized version of this classic medical device by introducing three-dimensional technology. Three dimensional ultrasounds, although advanced and modern, have a number of noteworthy disadvantages.

In 1980, Olaf von Ramm and Stephen Smith introduced the three-dimensional ultrasound into the medical field. Eventually, in 1987, they were granted a patent. Since then, the use of this device has grown tremendously; however, it still is not used as often as the traditional two dimensional

ultrasound (Jeandron).

In a two dimensional ultrasound, sound waves are sent into the patient’s body, using a probe that is connected to a computer.

Once these waves have reached an organ or other internal body structure, they are sent back to the probe. This is where they are analyzed and translated back into the computer. By using the speed of sound, the computer is able to calculate the distance, size, shape, and density of the organ (Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts). The numerous two dimensional images are able to be combined, thus creating a more detailed, three dimensional image (Jeandron). This technology is analogous to that portrayed by the navigation system of submarines and sonar bats (Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts).

Ultrasounds are most commonly used for viewing internal organs, analyzing blood flow, and checking on a developing fetus (Freundenrich). By simply using the speed of sound and a computer monitor, doctors are able to easily view and assess the movement and functionality of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints (Gurnick Academy of Medical Arts).

Within the last century, as three dimensional ultrasounds have become more popular, the images have been viewed as “baby keepsakes” (Stenson). Because the three dimensional image is very detailed, and even shows physical features of the baby, this has become a popular thing to have

performed.

Although traditional, two dimensional ultrasounds are used commonly for everyday medical examinations of internal organs, three dimensional ultrasounds are more commonly used in prenatal care. Because the image is more thorough, three dimensional ultrasounds are often used to “detect cardiac anomalies” and “screening for fetal heart” (Ionescu, 2010). Just as a two dimensional ultrasound has the ability to do, three dimensional ultrasounds can help a doctor to make accurate diagnoses and detect tumors or other concerning problems. They are also commonly used to view chromosomal abnormalities” (Tarkan, 2011).

There are numerous benefits to three dimensional ultrasounds. As previously mentioned, three dimensional ultrasounds create a clearer, more precise image, as opposed to a two dimensional that creates a less-thorough image. Because of this, doctors are able to more accurately make diagnoses. Also, this clearer picture can allow the doctor to see the fetal heart and cardiac structure better than what is possible using a two dimensional ultrasound (Larkan, 2011).

As a whole, the most significant benefit to the three dimensional ultrasounds is that they give doctors and patients the ability to further analyze aspects of the body that a two dimensional ultrasound would not necessarily be able to provide. However, the two dimensional ultrasound has been in use for a very long period of time and, generally speaking, gives a sufficient amount of information to be able to correctly diagnose or analyze. For this reason, three dimensional ultrasounds are not as widely used as two dimensional ultrasounds.

In addition to these benefits, there are also a significant amount of disadvantages.

Professionals generally suggest that people do not receive three dimensional ultrasounds for purposes not medical related (FDA). For example, there have been many cases in which women simply want to see what their baby will look like, and use the image as a keepsake, as mentioned previously. However, professionals suggest that three dimensional ultrasound should strictly be used as a way to further analyze concerning and potentially dangerous aspects in the fetus. The reason for this is that according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, subjecting the human body, particularly a fetal boy, has been proven to cause “jarring vibrations and a rise in temperature” (FDA). Although the FDA notes that these effects have not directly harmed a fetus, they are certainly serious risks that occur in a three dimensional ultrasound.

In addition, the three dimensional ultrasound takes much longer to complete, as it is a series of traditional two dimensional ultrasounds in a row. This also causes an increase in the amount of time the fetus is subjected to the harsh sound waves; thus, posing the recurring issue of potential harm to the unborn

baby.

Another drawback of three dimensional ultrasounds is that they are substantially more expensive than a two dimensional ultrasound. Not only do they cost more for the consumer to have performed, but they are extremely expensive for the medical facility to attain. Because the technology is very advanced, the equipment is costly. In addition, operators must be properly trained, which also costs more money (Stenson).

Three dimensional ultrasounds are very sensitive to a number of occurrences. Any movement from the fetus whatsoever can potentially cause the image to be ruined. These movements can include a small movement of a body part or even a hiccup. Additionally, if the operator is not fully trained to properly use the equipment, there is a possibility that the image will be corrupt (Ionescu, 2010). As a result of these things, it is evident that the quality of the three dimensional ultrasound is completely reliant on having a quintessential visit.
In conclusion, three dimensional ultrasounds provide many benefits to the medical industry, specifically in prenatal care; however, they unquestionably pose some risks and downfalls. Because of these downfalls, many medical facilities deliberately choose not to provide this treatment, making three dimensional ultrasounds somewhat of a commodity in terms of medicine.