SAW. Ultrasound

An ultrasound scan, sometimes called a sonogram, is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of part of the inside of the body. An ultrasound scan can be used to monitor an unborn baby, diagnose a condition, or guide a surgeon during certain procedures.

A small device called an ultrasound probe is used, which gives off high-frequency sound waves. You can’t hear these sound waves, but when they bounce off different parts of the body, they create “echoes” that are picked up by the probe and turned into a moving image. This image is displayed on a monitor while the scan is carried out.

Abnormalities detected during a scan

We are a diagnostic clinic so our duty is to diagnose (identify) fetal abnormalities and ensure that the mother is appropriately referred for ongoing analysis and treatment.

In the event that we identify or even suspecting that there is a problem, we follow the following process:

1. The sonographer explains fully and honestly the problem or suspected problem to the woman
2. The clinic takes all reasonable steps to arrange an appointment for the woman with her NHS care provider which may be her hospital, her GP or in the case of an emergency situation, the closest hospital.
3. We provide the woman with a report of the scan findings for her to take with her to her NHS care provider.

We provide care and support in a compassionate way to the woman and her wider family. This will be an important part of your role.

Ultrasound Risks

Extensive studies have found that there are no risks with ultrasound as long as it is used responsibly, by trained staff and according to recommended guidelines.

We follow the “As Low As Reasonably Achievable” (ALARA) guideline. We always scan to set parameters with maximum scan times and so there would never be any harm to baby or mother.

4D Ultrasound

Just like 3D these are made up of multiple 2D echoes. 4D adds the dimension of time (movement) and used to create movies of the baby moving within the womb. HD adds a higher quality to 4D captures.

3D Ultrasound

A 3D image is made up of multiple 2D ultrasound echoes. This uses the same technology and provides external images of the baby.

2D Ultrasound

Like NHS scans, 2D scans produce black and white images and are always used for the diagnostic well-being part of the package.