The procedure of an ultrasound works by emitting high-frequency sound waves that travel through the body and bounce back as they hit different tissues and organs. The transducer, which is the hand-held device that comes in contact with the patient, captures the returning echoes that are processed by the ultrasound machine. This generates real-time images inside the body.

How an Ultrasound Works

Ultrasounds allow for non-invasive diagnostics, or for monitoring certain conditions or injuries. Aside from pregnancy, there are many other reasons people get ultrasounds. Let’s take a closer look at the process of an ultrasound.

1. Transducer Sound Wave Emission – The transducer emits the sound waves that travel through the human body. The gel applied to the patient by the sonographer helps conduct the sound waves and direct them through the skin and into the body.
2. Sound Wave Imaging – As sound waves are emitted through the body, they encounter different organs, tissues, and fluids, and are echoed back to the transducer.
3. Wave Detection – As sound waves are reflected back to the transducer, the information is relayed to the ultrasound machine to be processed.
4. Image Formation – The ultrasound machine receives the echoed sound waves and processes them to form the image, which is displayed in real-time on a monitor.

Ultrasound in Action

On the monitor, sonographers, doctors, and patients alike can observe the structures inside the body in real-time. Of course, many are familiar with using ultrasound technology during pregnancy, but there are many other instances where ultrasounds are used.

Sonographers also use ultrasounds to monitor heart conditions, diagnose certain diseases, and assess any abnormalities or injuries. They can also be used as a guide during certain medical procedures like biopsies.

How Much Do Sonographers Make?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2023, sonographers made an average of $89,020, with the top 10 percent making $116,300 or more. The BLS also stated that sonographers are expected to see a 10 percent increase in demand by 2032, which is much faster career growth than the national average of all careers.

Becoming a Sonographer

This article provides a brief look at the amazing process of ultrasound technology. Ultrasounds play a critical role in the diagnosis of certain ailments, and in monitoring other health conditions. Choosing to become a sonographer can lead to an excellent and fulfilling career path in the medical field.

Learn more about the complexities of ultrasound technology and begin your training to become a technician by finding schools with ultrasound technology programs near you!

Learn More:

• Diagnostic Medical Sonography: Program and Job Description
• Ultrasound – Mayo Clinic