Ultrasound in Portland

Imaging technology at Adventist Health Portland

Diagnostic ultrasound is a means to obtain images of the body using sound waves rather than X-rays. These sound waves enter the body by means of a transducer, which is a device placed directly upon the skin. The sound waves interact with internal tissues in various ways and are reflected back to the transducer, where they are converted into a visual image on a television monitor.

Our sonographers are highly skilled professionals with several years of medical education and supervised training in the performance of ultrasound scans.

For fetal ultrasound, the new images feature 3D views of the fetus, which is reconstructed over time, hence giving the fourth dimension. A special ultrasound camera is used to obtain these images. This technology is used to help enhance anatomical features when fetal position allows.

Ultrasound imaging is also frequently used to evaluate and image fetal development in the uterus. When the fetus is imaged between 25 and 40 weeks gestation and surrounded by adequate amniotic fluid, the quality of the fetal image can be truly amazing. These images can allow the prospective parents to see their baby's features with clarity.

Fetal ultrasound images for anatomical screening are generally recommended at 2 weeks, which may vary based on the mother's medical history. Please consult with your obstetrician for their recommendation.