4D Ultrasound
Exclusive live-action (4D) technology brings the fourth dimension to ultrasound, making our Ultrasound System a revolution in prenatal care. It provides clear, moving three-dimensional pictures of your baby. That means a new dimension of information for you and your doctor. And fewer doubts!
Though available commercially since the 1960s, ultrasound was not widely accepted until the mid-1970's, when additional advances in technology would contribute to better image quality. The latest advances in ultrasound are 3D and 4D imaging. To create 3D images, an ultrasound system determines the volume of a subject - for example, a baby. The system then reconstructs the image in three dimensions. As for 4D Ultrasound, only the Voluson 730 can gather 3D volumes and instantly reconstruct them into moving images.
The GE Voluson 730 4D Ultrasound System marks a new dimension in obstetric imaging. It features advanced signal processing, which produces higher-quality ultrasound images. But what makes the system unique is exclusive GE 4D technology.
GE 4D Ultrasound represents the difference between video and a still photograph. Through this revolutionary technology, your baby's three-dimensional image is continuously updated, providing a "live action" view that leads to a number of medical benefits. Physicians and sonographers can better analyze fetal development. So you'll know what to expect and can feel confident during your pregnancy.
The Voluson 730 4D Ultrasound System is just one more example of the breakthroughs evolving every year from the scientists and engineers at GE Medical Systems - breakthroughs designed to provide you with all the information and security you need to ensure your family peace of mind and good health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 4D Ultrasound?
What are the advantages of the 4D technology?
Are there any risks related to 3D or 4D Ultrasound?
Does a 4D Ultrasound exam take longer than a traditional Ultrasound exam?
How long does an Ultrasound exam last?
Why do the 4D Ultrasound images have a golden hue?
Do I have to make any special preparations for an Ultrasound exam?
What are the advantages of the 4D technology?
What is Volume Rendering?
Beyond pretty baby pictures, are there other applications for 4D Ultrasound?
What is 4D Ultrasound?
"4D" is shorthand for "four-dimensional" – the fourth dimension being time. As far as ultrasound is concerned, 4D Ultrasound is the latest ultrasound technology and it is exclusive to GE. 4D Ultrasound takes three-dimensional ultrasound images and adds the element of time to the process. The result: Live Action images of your unborn child or of any internal anatomy.
What are the advantages of the 4D technology?
In contrast to other 3D imaging diagnostic processes, 4D allows your doctor to visualize internal anatomy moving in real-time. For example: Movement patterns of fetuses allows conclusions to be drawn about their development; increase of accuracy in ultrasound guided biopsies thanks to the visualization of needle movements in real time in all 3 planes. So physicians and sonographers can detect or rule out any number of issues, from vascular anomalies to genetic syndromes.
Are there any risks related to 3D or 4D Ultrasound?
No. 3D and 4D Ultrasound both utilize sound waves to look inside the body. The technology is similar to radar. A probe placed on the body emits sound waves into the body, listens for the return echo and generates an image.
Does a 4D Ultrasound exam take longer than a traditional ultrasound exam?
No. Even though a 4D Ultrasound exam employs slightly different technology, you should not anticipate a longer exam.
How long does an ultrasound exam last?
There are many factors that impact the length of an ultrasound exam, including the position of the baby in the womb. However, a typical exam for an expectant mother lasts approximately 30-50 minutes.
Why do the 4D Ultrasound images have a golden hue?
Physicians have the option of selecting different tints in reviewing images. GE has found that the golden hue is aesthetically pleasing to the eye and shows excellent shadows and highlights.
Do I have to make any special preparations for an ultrasound exam?
Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive exam that does not typically require any exam preparation. Still, please consult with your physician first on any requirements.
What are the advantages of the 4D technology?
Displaying the entire volume of an object that is being examined makes it possible to analyze the tissue concerned. 4D allows doctors and sonographers to analyze fetal motion and perform exams previously unavailable.
What is Volume Rendering?
Volume Rendering is the process of capturing ultrasound image information and compiling it into a three-dimensional image. Volume Rendering allows doctors to visualize internal anatomy in every direction.
Beyond pretty baby pictures, are there other applications for 4D Ultrasound?
Yes. The Voluson 730 is a full-service ultrasound system that can be used for breast imaging, interventional urology and general imaging.