When you visit SCP Radiology, your imaging will be done by either a radiographer or a sonographer. The term “radiographer” is fairly well known but what exactly does a sonographer do? These are more tricky terms of radiology, explained.

A sonographer is specifically trained in the use of ultrasound, an imaging modality that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of organs inside the body. These images are then interpreted by physicians, typically radiologists, to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions. Unlike general X-rays and computed tomography (CT), sonography does not use radiation.

Did you know?

The technology of mechanical sound waves is similar to that used for fish finding by marine biologists or oceanographers.

Frequently used terms

Ultrasound: The type of imaging procedure or examination.
Sonographer: The technician who carries out the procedure.
Sonogram: The image it produces.

How do you train to become a sonographer?

It requires at least the completion of a degree in the field, degree in the field, clinical experience after one year of community service, and  certification with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

What is ultrasound used for?

Ultrasound is excellent for visualising soft tissue structures and to obtain images of organs, tissues, and blood flow. Sonographers often focus on specific areas, such as abdominal, vascular or cardiac ultrasound. An ultrasound allows the sonographer or doctor to see potential abnormalities with organs, blood vessels and soft tissue without needing to be invasive. This technology can help diagnose and treat certain conditions that are not visible on X-rays.

In contrast, X-rays are preferred when detailed images of bones and air-filled structures are necessary.

Safety

Although each modality has its specific application, ultrasound is sometimes used as a safer alternative for patients who cannot be exposed to radiation – for example, pregnant women and children. The associated risks of ultrasound are minimal.

Guiding a biopsy

Ultrasound is also a helpful way to guide needle movements during certain medical procedures, such as biopsies and other theatre-related cases.

How to prepare for an ultrasound

The steps you will take to prepare for an ultrasound will depend on the area or structure that is being examined.

Your doctor may tell you to fast for at least four to six hours before your ultrasound, especially if your abdomen is being examined. Undigested food can block the sound waves, making it difficult for the technician to get a clear picture.

For an examination of the gallbladder, liver, pancreas or spleen, you may be told to eat a fat-free meal the evening before your test and then to fast until the procedure. However, you can continue to drink water and take any medications as instructed.

For other ultrasound examinations, you may be asked to drink a lot of water and to hold your urine so that your bladder is full for better ultrasound images. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and ask any questions you may have before the procedure.

What happens while the sonographer does the scan?

Before the exam, you may need to change into a hospital gown. You will most likely be lying down on an examination bed with a section of your body exposed for the test.

The sonographer will apply a water-based gel to your skin, to prevent friction when they move the ultrasound device – which has a similar appearance to a microphone – on your skin. The jelly also helps transmit the sound waves into the body.

The ultrasound sends high-frequency sound waves through your body. The waves echo as they hit a dense object, such as an organ or bone. Those echoes are then reflected back into a hand-held ultrasound probe. Even though the sound waves are at too high of a pitch for the human ear to hear, they form a picture that can be interpreted by the doctor.

After the procedure, the gel will be wiped off. The whole procedure typically lasts less than 30 minutes, depending on the area being examined. You will be free to go about your normal activities after the procedure.

After an ultrasound

Your doctor will review the images and check for any abnormalities, you will receive a call from your referring physician to discuss the findings or to schedule a follow-up appointment. If your doctor is able to make a diagnosis of your condition based on your ultrasound, they will begin your treatment immediately.

Should anything abnormal turn up on the ultrasound, you may need to undergo additional diagnostic techniques, such as a CT scan, MRI or a biopsy to sample tissue.

This article is part of a series aimed at decoding medical jargon. Visit our news section for more.