We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is 4D Ultrasonography?

By Jackie Myers
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 8,185
Share

4D ultrasonography uses three-dimensional ultrasound images and adds live-action images to the process. It can be used to analyze the development of an unborn child. 4D ultrasound provides a moving 3D movie of the fetus by rapidly processing image stills and can strengthen the bond between parents and the unborn baby. This ultrasound technology also allows experts to detect various abnormalities, including Down syndrome, in fetuses.

Advances in computer technology are responsible for the higher quality images in 4D ultrasonography. Images are generated by sending high-frequency sound waves inside the mother's body. The waves penetrate all fluids and bounce away from solids. The rebounding waves produce images that are processed quickly, making the images appear to occur in real time.

A woman can view the development of her unborn child with 4D ultrasonography beginning in week 20 of pregnancy. The high-resolution images alert doctors of health issues with the fetus. Unlike two-dimensional sonography, 4D ultrasound provides experts with a more accurate picture of the fetus' surroundings. It can detect small tears in the uterus and allows parents to have a detailed view of their unborn child's eyes and fingers.

Studies have shown using three-dimensional and 4D ultrasonography has a positive impact on expectant mothers during pregnancy. Viewing an unborn baby in motion improves maternal health habits. Mothers have the tendency to eliminate harmful behaviors such as drinking and smoking. It can also encourage them to exercise more and improve their diet. A 4D ultrasound can also increase paternal involvement.

4D ultrasonography is useful in finding abnormalities in the unborn baby. The real-time imaging is capable of focusing on a specific area instead of the whole body.To accomplish this, an ultrasound technician, holds a probe over the mother's abdomen. A nearby computer captures the images as multiple pictures and simultaneously renders live three-dimensional images on a monitor. Deformities such as cleft lip and various spinal cord abnormalities can also be viewed with 4D ultrasound.

Physicians can use 4D ultrasonography to detect Down syndrome in fetuses, as 4D ultrasonography provides a better picture for diagnosis than two-dimensional imaging. 4D ultrasound allows experts to analyze multiple views of blood vessels and the heart in real-time. Images of the heart as well as the nasal bone can indicate whether the unborn baby has Down syndrome.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-4d-ultrasonography.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.