Types of Ultrasound

Most ultrasound is done using transducers on the surface of the skin. Sometimes, however, doctors and technicians can get a better diagnostic image by inserting a special transducer into one of the body's natural openings: In a transvaginal ultrasound, a transducer rod is placed in a woman's vagina to Get better images of your uterus and ovaries. Transrectal ultrasound is sometimes used to diagnose prostate disease. Transesophageal echocardiography uses a transducer probe in the esophagus to give the sonographer a clearer picture of the heart. In addition, ultrasound technology has evolved to allow different types of imaging: Doppler is a special type of ultrasound that creates images of blood flow through blood vessels. Bone ultrasound helps doctors diagnose osteoporosis. An echocardiogram is used to look at the heart. 3D imaging adds another dimension to ultrasound images, creating a 3D interpretation rather than the flat 2D images produced using traditional ultrasound. 4D ultrasound shows 3D images in motion.