Ultrasound technology is continuously evolving, bringing clearer images to physicians and patients. The latest advancements in 4D ultrasound imaging bring together all the advantages of 3D technology and put them in motion. But perhaps most importantly, the clarity and convenience of ultrasound imaging fosters collaboration between gynecologists and patients, while saving patients valuable time and energy.
How Does 4D Ultrasound Imaging Work?
Mothers seeing live images of their babies in the womb is the most talked-about use of this technology. However, the real benefit of 4D ultrasound is that it produces clearer images — far more detailed than those from 2D views — and provides physicians with a diagnostic tool at the bedside.
An ultrasound system uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the body. A 2D ultrasound sends and receives waves to create a flat, black-and-white image of the transverse and sagittal planes. A 3D ultrasound adds the coronal plane, providing a look at the outer contour and shape of the uterus. This allows for better views of the endometrium and pelvic structure. The data collected with 3D ultrasound empowers the physician to slice the data to get almost any view needed.
A 4D ultrasound offers the same perspectives and parsing of images as 3D with the addition of time, which enables the doctor to see the movement of organs and blood flow within the body. For both 3D and 4D ultrasound, images are stored within the system or in a cloud-based storage solution. This makes them easy to share with consulting specialists and patients.
Saving Time With Diagnostic Imaging
In gynecology today, patients and physicians alike are looking to get the most value for their time. That's where ultrasound systems come in. The advances made with regard to image quality with 3D and 4D ultrasound enable patients to receive diagnostic imaging tests in the office. This eliminates the need to travel to other facilities for additional tests and reduces the time patients must wait for results.
In addition to these benefits, 4D ultrasound systems empower gynecologists to:
- Measure endometrial hyperplasia.
- Detect and evaluate tumors.
- Assess endometrial or uterine abnormalities.
- Detect pelvic abnormalities.
- Discover the cause of flank pain.
- Confirm IUD placement.
- Detect and measure cysts or polyps.
Boosting Patient Confidence
Patients want to be treated as partners in their care and expect shared decision-making. Viewing test results full of numbers or trying to comprehend medical terminology makes this challenging.
With 4D ultrasound, women can see the same views as their doctor and discuss what they're seeing in real time. Clinicians can check for understanding and move forward with a treatment plan, having increased confidence that the patient is on the same page. This shared decision-making and improved understanding of their condition may also translate to better outcomes.
Investing in a 3D or 4D ultrasound provides a return on investment — not only financially, but also through improved patient experience and increased confidence in the physician-patient relationship.
