When
people think of sonographers, the first thing that springs
to mind is obstetrics. However, there are many more opportunities
for sonographers than running ultrasounds for moms-to-be.
They may specialize in abdominal sonography, neurosonagraphy,
ophthalmic sonography, echocardiography, and vascular technology.
An abdominal sonographer uses sonography to inspect patients’
abdomens. They look for abnormalities or disease in the
liver, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, gallbladder and bile ducts,
and also use the technology as a means of treatment, determining
whether the current course of therapy has been effective.
In some cases they may scan parts of the chest as well,
but this area is usually left to the echocardiographer.
A neurosonagrapher specializes in the area of the brain
and nervous system. They diagnose disorders of the nervous
system and abnormalities in the brain, such as tumors. They
may also scan for evidence of strokes. Neurosonographers
also use slightly different technology than obstetric or
abdominal sonographers in order to produce their scans.
Ophthalmic sonographers study the eyes. They diagnose tumors,
separated retinas and other diseases of the eyes. They can
also provide accurate measurements of the eye for the insertion
of prosthetics. The technology used in ophthalmic sonography
is specific to the practice, much smaller than that used
by other areas.
An echocardiographer deals specifically with the heart.
They use ultrasound technology to get an accurate picture
of the heart, which can be done while the patient is resting
or active. These pictures, called echocardiograms, are used
to examine the chambers, valves, and vessels of the heart
and identify any abnormalities or disorders. Vascular technologists
deal with similar areas, mainly the circulatory system.
They use the ultrasound technology to check blood flow and
circulation, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. These
tests are usually run during or immediately after surgery
to ensure that every organ is getting the amount of blood
it needs to function properly, and also to check for any
abnormalities in the amount of blood flowing to certain
areas.
In addition to performing the scans, sonographers are also
responsible for keeping accurate patient records and being
able to analyze the information obtained in the scans for
diagnosis and treatment. They also maintain their own equipment,
and may be responsible for the purchase of new equipment,
as well as keeping abreast of any technological advances.
Some sonographers may become department supervisors, responsible
for the actions and operation of the entire sonography team.
Sonography is a growing opportunity in the medical field,
expected to increase more quickly than any other area, especially
as technology and uses expand. It can also lead to several
opportunities outside the hospital or private practice,
including research and education. Not limited to the practice
of obstetrics, it can be an exciting and rewarding profession,
both professionally and personally.
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When
people think of sonographers, the first thing that springs to mind
is obstetrics. However, there are many more opportunities for sonographers
than running ultrasounds for moms-to-be. They may specialize in
abdominal sonography, neurosonagraphy, ophthalmic sonography, echocardiography,
and vascular technology.
