Separation of different gray scale values to reconstruct superficial outline of tissues of interest, suitable for the display of urinary bladder, gallbladder, womb, embryo, etc. The 3D image is vividly clear.

  This technique adopts the transparent algorithm to realize 3D ultrasound reconstruction. It can weaken the gray scale information surrounding the region of interest and display the inner structure of concrete organs.
Methods to realize transparent image:
1. Weakest echo method; 2. Strongest echo method; 3. X-ray method

This method cuts through the volumetric image in different directions to form new images, such as the image plane that’s parallel to the surface of transducer. This software supports flexible operation of multi-surface image forming.

4.Color Doppler blood stream 3D dimensional image

This technique produces 3D images of blood flow based on the data collected from color Doppler Directional Power Blood flow Images. It can facilitate the judgment of blood flow perfusion, the direction of blood vessels and distinguishing from the surrounding tissues.

The Introduction Of 3D ultrasound

1

How 3D Ultrasound Works for Girls and Boys
The greater availability of 3D ultrasound has changed how ultrasounds for your baby's sex is looked at during an exam. These are often more accurate because you can actually see parts as opposed to guessing from shadows. The images are often very clear and very distinct.
If you have chosen to find out the sex of your baby, you are most likely going to do so via ultrasound. Typically an ultrasound is done for this purpose around the midpoint in pregnancy. It is technically called the fetal anatomy survey and it is done to look for fetal anomalies and not simply the sex of the baby. Most women will have one between 18-22 weeks of pregnancy.
Many families rely on ultrasound to tell the gender or sex of their new baby. How accurate that report is will depend on many factors including the age of the baby, the equipment used, the technician, and the cooperation of the baby.
One of my pet peeves is that people take ultrasound for granted when it comes to gender or sex determination. Not only can ultrasound be inaccurate, but there is also what I call the "Absence of Penis = Girl" theory. This theory states that if the ultrasound technician fails to find a penis the baby is automatically a girl. You will see that clearly a girl is more than the absence of a penis.
When doing an ultrasound to determine the sex of your baby, an ultrasound technician will actually look for girl genitalia - labia and clitoris. When these are seen it is often referred to as the "Hamburger Sign" because the clitoris between the labial lips looks hamburger-like. Where the labia would be the buns of the hamburger and the clitoris would be the meat.
When the ultrasound technician is looking for a boy, they are looking for something called the turtle sign. This is where you can see the tip of the penis peeking out from behind the testicles.
Even in the stages of fetal development baby boy's can and will have erections. If you happen to be looking with an ultrasound during that time frame you will see a very clearly defined penis.
When doing ultrasound, we're working really hard to be able to tell a parent the sex of their baby earlier and earlier. The problem is that the earlier you are told the more likely the ultrasound technician is to be wrong. Ultrasound before 18 weeks runs this risk because the genitals of boys and girls are easily mistaken, namely because the clitoris is roughly the size of the penis at this stage.
It's hard to tell at 15 weeks but the technician's best guess is boy.

This article comes from:

http://pregnancy.about.com/od/boyorgirl/ss/genderus_7.htm


2

Understanding 3D/4D Ultrasound
It's a huge mystery for expectant moms - waiting through nine months of pregnancy without getting to see what's going on inside your body. Recent advances in ultrasound technology can now allow expectant families to bond with their babies before birth. This technology, known as 3D or 4D ultrasound, provides a new, clearer window into their unborn baby's world in the womb.

How Does Prenatal Ultrasound Work?
An ultrasound is the interpretation of reflected sound waves to form a picture of the fetus. 2D ultrasound (sometimes referred to as "traditional" ultrasound) has been safely used in obstetrics for over 35 years.
2D ultrasound works by "listening" to sound waves in a single plain. The ultrasound is directed straight down and reflected back up again. Think of it as being able to virtually slice a loaf of bread. The resulting black and white image is similar to looking at the face of a slice of bread.
3D ultrasounds work by a different process known as "surface rendering". In this case, the same sound waves used in 2D are sent down – this time at different angles. These reflections are interpreted through sophisticated software, and a 3D image of the fetus is instantly created. Using the same "bread" analogy as before, the surface of the loaf is now being examined from the outside. Surface details can now be visualized with remarkable clarity.
4D ultrasound is captured in the same manner as 3D ultrasound. Instead of looking at a single still image (3D), you are now able to view live "video" of the fetus in the womb (4D).

The Concerns about Ultrasound during Pregnancy
Many 3D/4D ultrasound centers have recently opened, providing affordable elective ultrasounds to expectant families. This has drawn criticism from several organizations. But if the equipment is regulated, and the practice of ultrasound for prenatal care has a good safety record … where's the problem?
Some doctors are concerned that their patients will opt to get too many unnecessary ultrasounds. But if the argument of ultrasound safety was simply based on overall exposure, then a good follow-up question would be: "If increased ultrasound exposure is a cause for concern, then why do higher-risk pregnancies typically receive so many?"
Other doctors are understandably concerned that mothers will use these elective ultrasounds in lieu of an ultrasound prescribed by their physicians. They are also concerned that a technician may try to present diagnostic information that should only be interpreted by a board-certified physician.
An elective ultrasound should only be used to complement the ultrasound sessions prescribed by a physician. A full-anatomical study should always be completed first to identify any potential prenatal issues. The parents-to-be can then utilize the elective session as an insightful, bonding experience.

The Positive Impacts of Bonding
Expectant mothers nationwide are seeking elective ultrasounds because they feel it will have a positive impact during their pregnancy. Recent studies have shown that viewing an ultrasound can cause marked improvement in maternal health habits. Studies presented at an American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) meeting have even supported that 3D ultrasounds will positively influence parents bond with their babies.
Mothers tend to improve their diets, exercise more, and eliminate harmful behaviors such as smoking or drinking. Other ultrasound benefits may also include increased paternal involvement, family support, empathy, and appreciation.

Finding a Responsible 3D/4D Prenatal Ultrasound Provider
Although there are plenty of entertaining aspects to a 3D/4D ultrasound, safety and professionalism should always remain paramount when choosing a provider. A responsible ultrasound provider will require proof that the client is seeing a healthcare provider for prenatal care. Proof should also be required that the mother-to-be has already completed a full-anatomical, second-trimester ultrasound study.
The provider should use the system's obstetric mode to keep within FDA-established levels for frequency and power for prenatal use. They should also limit the actual scan time to less than 25 minutes per session. A session must be immediately suspended if anything adverse is discovered, and all findings should be directly reported to the mother's healthcare provider.
Remember that word-of-mouth is usually the best method of referral amongst expectant mothers. Many sonographers and technicians tend to forget that this is a special moment during a mother's pregnancy. So do your homework, and ask around. The best ultrasound experience will be the culmination of the nicest facility, the best equipment, and a professional, caring staff

This article comes from:

http://www.expectantmothersguide.com/library/philadelphia/ultrasound.htm


3

the 3D ultrasound pioneer
Within a couple of decades, 3D ultrasound will have totally supplanted the familiar 2D technology. That's the take of Stephen Smith, professor of biomedical engineering at Duke University (Durham, NC), who, with his colleague, Olaf von Ramm, pioneered the development of clinical 3D ultrasound scanners back in the 1980s. Since then, Smith and his research group have refined and adapted 3D ultrasound for a whole host of applications, and have market domination firmly in their sights.
Among some clinical communities, ultrasound is perceived as the poor relation when it comes to medical imaging (see Diagnostic ultrasound: who pulled the plug?). Its chief advantages - safety, cost-effectiveness and versatility - have led to it being used widely by non-specialists, while being shunned by many radiologists in favour of "more glamorous" modalities like CT and MRI.
But things are now looking up again for ultrasound imaging. Thanks largely to the efforts of Smith's group at Duke, ultrasound has been reincarnated with a third dimension. Being able to produce 3D images in real-time allows clinicians to observe and measure the shape and volume of patients' internal anatomy in unprecedented detail.
Since 1987, when Smith and von Ramm patented the first high-speed 3D ultrasound system, the technology has almost completely taken over the obstetrics market in the US, with cardiology applications not far behind. Michelle Jeandron spoke to Smith to get his perspective on where this evolving technology is heading.
MJ: What are the advantages of being able to do ultrasound imaging in three dimensions?
SS: For foetal imaging, the big advantage has been in looking at facial and cranial abnormalities, and being able to measure the volumes of structures in the foetus. Also, 3D imaging allows you to measure things in directions that are not available in a normal 2D image. Cardiac 3D ultrasound is still growing, but it seems that the main advantages so far are being able to measure the volume of the left ventricle - otherwise known as the stroke volume or ejection fraction - and for guiding interventional devices, such as catheters, into the heart.
I think that 3D ultrasound will also be very valuable in places where you need real-time information - i.e. in the operating room or cardiac catheterization lab, where you don't have access to CT or MRI and you certainly don't have real-time imaging. Probably within a few years, 3D ultrasound [technology] will be small enough to fit into a purse. It's not very likely that CT will ever get that portable, and neither will MRI. So when you look at the advantages of cost, real-time and portability, ultrasound will probably always have the lead.
How does the technology actually work?
All you really need to do is move the ultrasound beam back and forth in a raster pattern, say in the x and y directions, then the depth into the tissue comprises the third dimension. If you plot the echo strength as a function of x, y and z, you have a 3D image.
What's the story behind the development of 3D ultrasound technology?
Actually, 3D ultrasound has been around since the 1950s, as a curiosity or as a research tool. For a long time, however, it was too slow to be useful for clinical applications. The speed of sound in tissue is around 1500 m/s - much less than the speed of light - so it takes a long time for the ultrasound to travel into the tissue and back up to the transducer. Then you have to move the transducer to the next spot and do it again.
Our innovation was a technology called parallel processing. This means that every time you send a pulse into the body you listen for the echoes in many different directions at once, effectively speeding up the data acquisition rate. In our case, we speeded it up by a factor of 16, meaning that we were able to make images 16 times faster than usual. As a result, we're able to create real-time 3D images. That was the birth of the current technology of high-speed 3D ultrasound.
How does the image quality compare with 2D ultrasound?
People generally accept that there is a slight degradation in the image quality due to the focusing of the transducer for parallel processing, but that's made up for by the fact that we're able to focus in all three dimensions rather than just two. For the actual task of detecting a tumour or lesion, because you're able to focus in all three directions, the loss of a little spatial resolution in two directions is compensated for by the 3D resolution. It's not clear whether there is any overall loss of quality - perhaps there is a little bit of a trade-off with high-speed 3D.
There's always room for improvement, however, and many, many people are working to improve ultrasound image quality. We've not yet reached an upper limit.
How is this technology being used commercially?
Most foetal imaging is done in 3D now - the technology of high-speed 3D ultrasound has almost totally overtaken everything in obstetrics. In cardiology also, probably a very high percentage of ultrasound scanners are 3D.
The ground swell of enthusiasm is not quite as great in cardiology as it is in obstetrics, but it's still growing. For example, a few years ago we developed the first 3D transoesophageal probe for cardiology and I think the first commercial version of that was released a few months ago. We have also made 3D catheters for cardiac applications - those have yet to be introduced commercially, although I think a number of companies are working on that. As time goes on, I think you'll see every 2D application supplanted by a 3D probe.
What is your team working on at the moment?
One of our current projects is looking at 3D ultrasound imaging of the brain - the cerebral vessels - which hopefully can be used as a diagnostic tool for stroke. Another project is to build a 3D transducer into the tip of several implantable devices. An example would be the so-called vena cava filter that filters out blood clots from the body, which is currently implanted via an endovascular approach using fluoroscopy. We think that we can actually integrate a 3D ultrasound probe into the implantation tip and hopefully get good images without exposing the patient to X-rays.
Basically, we're trying to look at every little device that's implanted into the body and see whether we can incorporate a 3D transducer into that device to make the implantation easier.
Looking ahead 20 or 50 years, how do you envisage 3D ultrasound being used?
I think it will have totally supplanted 2D ultrasound. Everywhere 2D is being used now there will be 3D, and it will be in portable devices that are as small as a laptop or a PDA.
The other area that we're working on is incorporating ultrasound into robotic surgery. The big breakthrough there would be if there was an autonomous robot that could do an ultrasound scan and then perform the surgery with the information that it had found using the 3D ultrasound. Looking ahead in a blue-sky way, that's what I see in the distant future.
This article comes from:
http://medicalphysicsweb.org/cws/article/opinion/31437

4

How Does 3D & 4D Prenatal Ultrasound or Sonogram Work?
An ultrasound is the interpretation of reflected sound waves to form a picture of the fetus. 2D ultrasound (sometimes referred to as "traditional" ultrasound) has been safely used in obstetrics for over 35 years.
2D ultrasound works by “listening” to sound waves in a single plain. The ultrasound is directed straight down and reflected back up again. Think of it as being able to virtually slice a loaf of bread. The resulting black and white image is similar to looking at the face of a slice of bread.
3D ultrasounds work by a different process known as "surface rendering". In this case, the same sound waves used in 2D are sent down – this time at different angles. These reflections are interpreted through sophisticated software, and a 3D image of the fetus is instantly created. Using the same "bread" analogy as before, the surface of the loaf is now being examined from the outside. Surface details can now be visualized with remarkable clarity.
4D ultrasound is captured in the same manner as 3D ultrasound. Instead of looking at a single still image (3D), you are now able to view live “video” of the fetus in the womb (4D).
The Concerns about 3D Ultrasound and 4D Ultrasound during Pregnancy
Many 3D/4D ultrasound centers have recently opened, providing affordable elective ultrasounds to expectant families. This has drawn criticism from several organizations. But if the equipment is regulated, and the practice of ultrasound for prenatal care has a good safety record … where’s the problem?
Some doctors are concerned that their patients will opt to get too many unnecessary ultrasounds. But if the argument of ultrasound safety was simply based on overall exposure, then a good follow-up question would be: “If increased ultrasound exposure is a cause for concern, then why do higher-risk pregnancies typically receive so many?”
Other doctors are understandably concerned that mothers will use these elective ultrasounds in lieu of an ultrasound prescribed by their physicians. They are also concerned that a technician may try to present diagnostic information that should only be interpreted by a board-certified physician.
An elective ultrasound should only be used to complement the ultrasound sessions prescribed by a physician. A full-anatomical study should always be completed first to identify any potential prenatal issues. The parents-to-be can then utilize the elective session as an insightful, bonding experience.
The Positive Impacts of Bonding using 3D Ultrasound and 4D Ultrasound
Expectant mothers nationwide are seeking elective ultrasounds because they feel it will have a positive impact during their pregnancy. Recent studies have shown that viewing an ultrasound can cause marked improvement in maternal health habits. Studies presented at an American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) meeting have even supported that 3D ultrasounds will positively influence parents bond with their babies.
Mothers tend to improve their diets, exercise more, and eliminate harmful behaviors such as smoking or drinking. Other ultrasound benefits may also include increased paternal involvement, family support, empathy, and appreciation.
Finding a Responsible 3D Ultrasound and 4D Ultrasound Provider
Although there are plenty of entertaining aspects to a 3D/4D ultrasound, safety and professionalism should always remain paramount when choosing a provider. A responsible ultrasound provider will require proof that the client is seeing a healthcare provider for prenatal care. Proof should also be required that the mother-to-be has already completed a full-anatomical, second-trimester ultrasound study.
The provider should use the system’s obstetric mode to keep within FDA-established levels for frequency and power for prenatal use. They should also limit the actual scan time to less than 25 minutes per session. A session must be immediately suspended if anything adverse is discovered, and all findings should be directly reported to the mother’s healthcare provider.
Remember that word-of-mouth is usually the best method of referral amongst expectant mothers. Many sonographers and technicians tend to forget that this is a special moment during a mother’s pregnancy. So do your homework, and ask around. The best ultrasound experience will be the culmination of the nicest facility, the best equipment, and a professional, caring staff.

This article comes from:
http://www.4dultrasounds.com/learn.htm

5

3D & 4D Ultrasounds Explained
An ultrasound is the interpretation of reflected sound waves to form a picture of the baby. 2D ultrasound (sometimes referred to as "traditional" ultrasound) has been safely used in obstetrics for over 35 years.
2D ultrasound works by “listening” to sound waves in a single plain. The ultrasound is directed straight down and reflected back up again. Think of it as being able to virtually slice a loaf of bread. The resulting black and white image is similar to looking at the face of a slice of bread.
3D ultrasounds work by a different process known as "surface rendering". In this case, the same sound waves used in 2D are sent down – this time at different angles. These reflections are interpreted through sophisticated software, and a 3D image of the baby is instantly created. Using the same "bread" analogy as before, the surface of the loaf is now being examined from the outside. Surface details can now be visualized with remarkable clarity.
4D ultrasound is captured in the same manner as 3D ultrasound. Instead of looking at a single still image (3D), you are now able to view live “video” of the baby in the womb (4D).

The Positive Impacts of Bonding using 3D Ultrasound and 4D Ultrasound
Expectant mothers nationwide are seeking elective ultrasounds because they feel it will have a positive impact during their pregnancy. Recent studies have shown that viewing an ultrasound can cause marked improvement in maternal health habits. Studies presented at an American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) meeting have even supported that 3D ultrasounds will positively influence parents bond with their babies.
Mothers tend to improve their diets, exercise more, and eliminate harmful behaviors such as smoking or drinking. Other ultrasound benefits may also include increased paternal involvement, family support, empathy, and appreciation.
This article comes from:

http://www.3dultrasounds.com/3D/4D Ultrasound Background

6

As the technology of ultrasounds grows, we've seen a new wave of ultrasound from the traditional two dimensional (2D) ultrasounds to the three dimensional or 3D ultrasounds. While many women seem to prefer the look of the new ultrasound as more realistic, they are still not available in every location. Generally, you can certainly find a 3D ultrasound available for most high risk pregnancy centers. More and more physicians and midwives are getting this machines available in their offices. You are most likely to see this offered at the mid-pregnancy ultrasound around the 18-20th weeks of pregnancy. Come look at a collection of ultrasound pictures from all stages of pregnancy.
This article comes from:

http://pregnancy.about.com/od/fetus/ig/3D-Ultrasound-Gallery/

The Introduction Of 4D ultrasound

1

 4D(define)

3D ultrasound is a medical ultrasound technique, often used during pregnancy, providing three dimensional images of the fetus. Often these images are captured rapidly and animated to produce a "4D ultrasound
A medical ultrasound technique that produces a sequence of 3D images over time.
3D Ultrasound center that has been chosen the best 3 years straight for all parents to be in Modesto, Fresno, Stockton, Sacramento, and Bay Area. Now you can get a "first peek at your bundle of joy" ? through 3D Ultrasound and live 4D Ultrasound on a 42 inch high definition plasma screen. Peek A Baby ? uses the state-of-the-art GE Voluson 730 Expert Ultrasound machine, by far the best technology available. Peek A Baby ? utilizes this cutting edge technology to offer you the best service (baby ultrasound) and to ensure you that receive the best visual of your bundle of joy. Years ago, expectant parents could only see black and white images through traditional 2D Ultrasound, which were often difficult to understand. Today you have a choice. With 3D Ultrasound and 4D Ultrasound imaging parents can view what their bundle of joy looks like even before they come into the world. We use state of the art 4D live color technology with real-time movements, capturing the miracle growing inside that parents can cherish forever! So for the Best 3D Ultrasound experience call Peek A Baby!

At The Women's Health Center, you willl discover our Philips HD11 XE High Definition 4D Ultrasound System. Using this state of the art unit, our sonographers are able to produce high quality images of your baby that will take your breath away.
What is 3D/4D ultrasound?
Like a traditional ultrasound, 3D/4D ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to create high definition images that can be viewed on a monitor screen. In a 3D ultrasound a lifelike still image is created of your baby. 4D technology allows you to actually watch your baby move around in real time.


When is the best time to schedule a 3D/4D ultrasound?
It is best to perform a 3D/4D ultrasounds after 28 weeks gestation, since this is the time of pregnancy when there is usually an adequate amount of amniotic fluid around the baby. Adequate amniotic fluid is required to obtain clear pictures


Are there any risks to performing a 3D/4D ultrasound?
Current understanding suggests that ultrasound poses no detectable risk to either baby or mother. However, this is not to say that future studies will not discover new risks. At the Women’s Health Center, we follow the ALARA principle
　

2

Behavioral pattern continuity from prenatal to postnatal life a study by four-dimensional (4D) ultrasonography
Citation Information. Journal of Perinatal Medicine. Volume 32, Issue 4, Pages 346–353, ISSN (Print) 0300-5577, DOI: 10.1515/JPM.2004.065, July 2004
Published Online: 01/06/2005
Abstract
Aim: To investigate whether the same behavioral patterns were present pre- and postnatally, and whether there were any differences in the frequency of movements observed in fetal and in early neonatal life.
Subjects and methods: Ten out of 37 pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy (median gestational age 34 weeks, range 33 to 35 weeks) in the two-month period (from November 1st to December 31st, 2003) were enrolled in the investigation. Ten term, appropriate for gestational age newborns (seven born vaginally, three by elective SC, six girls, six first-born) and were enrolled in the study. All 4D examinations were performed on Voluson 730 (Kretztechnik, Zipt, Austria) and Acuvix (Medison, Korea) with transabdominal 5 MHz transducer. After standard assessment in 2D B-mode ultrasound, a 4D mode was switched on and live 3D image was reconstructed by selecting the ideal representative 2D image placed in the region of interest (ROI). The recordings of neonatal behavior were made on the Sony P-612 OHMPL videotape by video camera (Sony Camcoder CC DTRV 318 Hv8) and reviewed on the videocassette recorder (Sony VHS SLV-N 900). The median of newborns' age at the moment of recording was 49 hours (range 4 to 112). During the examination, newborns were lying in the bed, separated from other infants in the nursery, dressed, and lying on their backs in a supine position with unrestrained hands. The temperature in the room was 22 to 24°C. The video recording was performed mainly while the children were actively awake or during alert inactivity.
Results: There were no movements observed in fetal life that were not present in neonatal life, while the Moro reflex was present only in neonates. The most frequent fetal and neonatal movements were scowling, eye and mouth opening, and hand to face, hand to eye and hand to head movements. Isolated blinking, mouth to eyelid movement, yawning, tongue expulsion and scowling were more frequent in neonates than in fetuses, although the difference was not statistically significant. Hand to mouth movements were more frequent in neonatal than in fetal life while all other hand movements were less frequent in neonates than in fetuses, although the differences did not reach statistical significance. Spearman rank order correlation reached statistical significance in smiling (R=0.71; t=2.91; P=0.02) and in hand to ear movement (R=0.80; t=3.86; P=0.005), and was almost statistically significant in isolated eye blinking (R=0.61; t=2.17; P=0.06), while the correlations between the rest of the movements were not statistically significant.
Conclusions: 4D ultrasonography is a powerful tool in the assessment of fetal behavior, and our study showed that there is a continuity from fetal to neonatal behavior, especially in terms of isolated eye blinking movements, mouth and eyelid opening, yawning, tongue expulsion, smiling, scowling and hand movements directed to other parts of the face.

This article comes from:
http://www.reference-global.com/doi/abs/10.1515/JPM.2004.065

3

The potential of four-dimensional (4D) ultrasonography in the assessment of fetal awareness

Asim Kurjak, 1. Medical School University Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
1
Milan Stanojevic, 2. Medical School University Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
2
Guillermo Azumendi, 3. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centro Gutenberg, Malaga, Spain
3
José M. Carrera4. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institut Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
4
Corresponding author: Asim Kurjak MD, Medical School University Zagreb, Sveti Duh Hospital, Sveti Duh 64, Zagreb/Croatia.
Citation Information. Journal of Perinatal Medicine. Volume 33, Issue 1, Pages 46–53, ISSN (Online) 1619-3997, ISSN (Print) 0300-5577, DOI: 10.1515/JPM.2005.008, January 2005
Publication History: Received: //; revised: //; accepted: //; published online: 01/06/2005
Abstract
Aim: The aim of the study was to observe different expressions and movements of a fetal face during investigation of fetal behavior in the second and the third trimester of normal pregnancies, as a probable manifestation of fetal awareness.
Subjects and methods: Over a 6-month period a study was conducted in three centers in Zagreb, Croatia and in Barcelona and Malaga, Spain. Women with singleton pregnancies (16–33 weeks) who were referred for ultrasound check-up for determination of gestational age, suspicious fetal malformations, polyhydramnios, and/or the assessment of biophysical profile or other possible pathology, were assigned to the study. After regular two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound assessment at an antenatal clinic, pregnant women were offered the possibility of undergoing 4D ultrasound examination if the fetus and the mother were considered “normal”, i.e., if ultrasound and clinical assessment were uneventful. If the newborn delivered at term had 1- and 5-min Apgar scores of 7 and 10, respectively, and if the newborn was considered “term and normal” (normal spontaneous activity, normal posture and tone, and presence of some primitive reflexes) at the first and subsequent regular check-ups, the inclusion criteria were deemed to have been met. Out of 119 patients, 99 fulfilled the inclusion criteria, 40 of whom were in the second, and 59 in the third trimester of pregnancy. A Voluson 730 Expert system with a transabdominal 5-MHz transducer was used for 4D ultra- sonography. After regular 2D scanning, the 4D mode was switched on, and a live 3D image was reconstructed by selecting ideal 2D mid-sagittal images of the face (the region of interest). The volume was automatically scanned every 2 s while the surface-rendered mode was switched on, and 4D images were displayed on the screen and recorded on videotape during a 30-min observation period. Movements of the following fetal face structures were analyzed: forehead, brows, nasal soft tissue and nasolabial folds, upper lip, oral cavity and tongue, lower lip and chin, eyelids and eyes, mouth and mouth angles, and facial expression. 4D ultrasonography allowed in utero observations of fetal facial expressions such as smiling, yawning, and swallowing.
Results: The quality of 4D depiction of fetal facial expressions increased with gestational age. The frequency of fetal facial expressions such as yawning ranged from 1 and 6 with a median of 1.5 per 30-min observation period; smiling ranged from 2 and 8 with the median of 2; tongue expulsion ranged from 2 to 6, median 3; mouth and eye squeezing ranged from 5 to 10, median 6; scowling ranged from 1 to 3, median 0.5; and isolated eye blinking ranged from 4 to 12 with a median of 5.
Conclusions: Our study shows the ability of 4D sonography to depict different facial expressions and movements, which might represent fetal awareness. Never-theless, long, precise and thorough observation of fetal faces by 4D sonography was hampered as the images were only near real-time. Thus, we were only able to study the quality and not the quantity of facial movement patterns

This article comes from:
http://www.reference-global.com/doi/abs/10.1515/JPM.2005.008


4


What is 4D Ultrasound?
Ultrasounds, sometimes referred to as sonograms, are a medical test which uses high frequency sound waves to produce a picture of the organs in the body. In the case of pregnancy, ultrasounds are routinely prescribed to produce an image of the fetus. A 4D ultrasound uses a special sonogram machine and takes images from a few different angles, which reveal more detailed images of the fetus, such as facial features. It can also capture movements made by the baby during the procedure.


A standard ultrasound only provides a two-dimensional image of the fetus. They are usually ordered in pregnancy for a variety of reasons, such as evaluating development of the baby, determining gestational age and identifying any abnormalities. Although the standard ultrasound produces a picture of the fetus, it may take a trained sonographer or a doctor to identify features and body parts. Keepsake photos are given to the patient, however they are often grainy.

Occasionally, a two-dimensional ultrasound may indicate a problem and a more sophisticated 4D ultrasound is needed to confirm an abnormality. For many pregnant women, there is no medical need for a 4D ultrasound, however the mom-to-be wants to get a better look at her baby. Most centers that perform a 4D ultrasound, recommend the test is performed after twenty-five weeks gestation. The baby is usually big enough to see features clearly.

Standard ultrasounds are ordered by a physician and performed at a clinic, doctors office or at an ultrasound imaging center. 4D ultrasounds do not require a doctor's order and are often done at a private ultrasound business, which specializes in keepsake 4D ultrasounds. The procedure is non-invasive and takes about twenty minutes to complete.

After a conductive gel is applied to the abdomen, the procedure is done by gliding a transducer over the pregnant women’s abdomen. A monitor is within view, allowing the woman to view the fetus and watch as the ultrasound is completed. The mom is given a keepsake photo and video of the baby.

The Federal Drug Administration regulates the level of energy used in ultrasound machines. Although they are considered safe, many physicians believe medically unnecessary ultrasounds should be avoided. This has caused some debate regarding elective 4D ultrasounds.


Because 4D machines create a higher quality image, there is some concern by physicians that the energy level used in 4D ultrasounds may be higher, although this has not been proven. For women who do want a keepsake photo and opt for a 4D ultrasound, it’s important to be sure the technician performing the test is a licensed sonographer. Women considering a 4D ultrasound should talk to their doctor regarding any safety concerns prior to the procedure.

This article comes from:
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-4d-ultrasound.htm

5


4D Ultrasounds Offer Parents More

Traditional ultrasounds are for many people very hard to read and interpret as they only offer flat images that are often blurred and distorted in many ways. This can lead to frustration among parents that want to buy the baby stuff before he/she gets here but they can’t tell the sex of the baby because of the poor imaging quality. However, 3D imaging, using multiple angles taken from the baby with a single ultrasound machine can be turned into a four dimensional, semi-animated model of your precious new family member.

These 4D models offer parents a chance to see what their baby will look like before he or she is born. This means that parents can begin the bonding process before birth, offer up pictures of their baby before they’re born and even have something to add to the baby book that will be intelligible for the child later in life. Despite all of these amazing things, many people still elect to forego the 4D ultrasound for the more traditional 2D for fear that the baby might be hurt by the machine. This simply won’t happen as the waves that are used in the 4D machine are identical to those in the 2D machine, they are just run through a computer program to clean them up and offer up clearer pictures.

Another advantage that parents should consider the 4D ultrasound for is the screening and early detection of treatable childhood ailments. In some cases, a two dimensional ultrasound will pick up abnormalities that can look like cancer, extra fingers, and in some cases, extra or missing limbs. However, before the four dimensional ultrasound machines there really was no way to tell and a wait and see approach was taken with treatment discussed after birth.

(1 votes)
Why a 4D Ultrasound is So Special
Filed under: Uncategorized - 29 Jan 2010
If you have ever been pregnant before or have seen an ultrasound photograph, you can see that the features are hard to distinguish as well as the graininess of the womb from several interferences. You can now have the ability to actually take a look inside the womb with a new tool called the 4D Ultrasound. This ultrasound option may seem very normal with the similar procedure, but with state of the art computers, a virtual fly-around of the baby(s) can be seen. This is a very amazing experience and can be shared with nearly anyone. With the ability to render the image and 3-Dimensional views of the baby in the womb and place them on DVD and other media, you can show all of your friends, family and coworkers.

This is a very special piece of equipment and the results that they can provide are simply stunning. Make sure to look into the available options for 4D Ultrasound in your area. If you are a doctor, gynecologist or any medical professional that can make use of this technology in your practice, there are several ways to look into getting the proper equipment and computer technology that you need. The best hope for parents to know that their child is doing well is by giving them a visual assurance using the 4D Ultrasound which can provide advanced views of the baby while in the womb as well as all of the important vital statistics that you need to know.

(2 votes)
What is a 4D Ultra Sound?
Filed under: Uncategorized - 09 Jan 2010
An ultrasound is a technique performed in which extremely high frequency sound waves are transmitted into the body, reflecting echoes that are brought back and analyzed to create a picture. This picture depicts the internal organs and fetus that is resting inside the uterus. A 4D ultrasound uses this same technology but with even more advancement. In this sort of scan, the sound waves are sent back at different angles, resulting in a life-like three dimensional volume.

The benefits of this type of ultrasound are significant. It is easy for a doctor to see the development of the baby and diagnose and curtail any problems early on in the pregnancy. In addition, studies show the bond between parent and child grows stronger earlier when exposed to this kind of screening. These scans are completely safe and easy to obtain. Most 4D scans are covered by insurance and are becoming a common practice in pre-natal care.

(1 votes)
Peek inside the Womb with 4D Ultrasounds
Filed under: Uncategorized - 23 Nov 2009
Happy soon to be parents may want to see their baby before it is born through an ultrasound. The astonishing advancements in technology for this procedure has allowed for us to actually take a peek into the womb through an ultrasound. This process uses the same technology but maps the complex information on a computer to produce a fully rendered image of the baby that can be viewed from any angle. This option always surprises both mothers and fathers because it allows them to see their beautiful baby before it is born. This process is also more accurate in identifying what gender the baby will be than standard ultrasounds.

4D ultrasounds are becoming more available to more offices and you could request to be referred to a location where 4D Ultrasounds are available. Hospitals and offices that want to offer this option to their patients could find special pricing online for their 4D Ultrasound machines. Several expecting mothers will want to see their baby before it is born so they can choose an adequate baby name and plan. The 4D Ultrasound is also a very special tool to help determine if the baby will have any deformities or complications when born. This can help parents prepare for the worse as well as have the ability to look into options to help treat their child once it is born. Not taking the chance to get a 4D Ultrasound can leave the parents very unprepared for the arrival of their child.

(1 votes)
4D Ultrasounds For Expecting Parents
Filed under: Uncategorized - 14 Oct 2009
As expectant first time parents, we were naturally very excited to go in and get our first ultrasound done, because it meant we would know how the baby was doing, but we would also get a picture to take home and show our friends and families.

When my specialist suggested that we get a 4D ultrasound we didn’t know exactly what that meant, but luckily she was able to explain it us. Basically, a 4D ultrasound lets the doctor not only see whether or not the baby is healthy and free of any deformities, but it also means that you can get a picture of it from the ultrasound that looks a lot more like a proper photograph than a standard ultrasound picture does.

We went in for our 4D ultrasound the following Monday, and were both very excited. Once the picture was in our hands we were absolutely amazed – it was like looking at a photograph of a beautiful new born infant; it was incredible – we could actually see our child before it had even been born.

Another plus of having a 4D ultrasound was that the doctor could see that our child was healthy, as well as know the sex right away.

Once we had a picture of our healthy baby, and knew that he was going to be a boy, we were able to decide on his name; and because the 4D ultrasound let us see his face, we could give him a name that really seemed to suit him.

Our 4D ultrasound picture is now one of our most treasured possessions, and we are looking forward to showing it to Jake when he is old enough to appreciate it.

(1 votes)
4D Ultrasound Applications
Filed under: Uncategorized - 30 Jul 2009
4D Ultrasound is a special kind of ultrasound that allows you to see objects in 3 Dimensional renderings and is very popular with expecting mothers as it allows them to see their child before it is born. It allows doctors to see any and all defects in a baby and can give them the ability to plan for anything that may present a problem in the future. The added ability to see the baby in the womb before it is born in 3 dimensional views is very nice for many parents as they can show off their beautiful baby to people before it is born and makes a great email and invitation for a baby shower!

You can really take advantage of 4D ultrasound in many other applications as well. The use of these machines allows you to detect kidney stones and various other obstructions in the body. These machines are very useful to determine the problem within someone that has swelling in an area or more. Make sure to ask for an ultrasound before exploratory surgery is performed to make sure that a tumor or other growth is really a tumor!

The abilities of the 4D ultrasound are not just limited to these applications and can be used for many different things in the medical world. Hospitals and clinics around the world are making use of 4D ultrasound machines in their maternity applications and more. The added 3D imaging of the machine gives doctors much more to work with without having to do an exploratory surgery and can help to give even more accuracy when deciding the course of the surgery in real terms. Doctors are urged to use 4D ultrasound machines to not only make their patients happy, but to improve their accuracy and abilities in advance!
This article comes from:

http://www.4dultrasound.net/

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What is 4D ultrasound?
“4D” is shorthand for four-dimensional – the fourth dimension being time. As far as prenatal ultrasound is concerned, 4D ultrasound is the latest prenatal ultrasound technology. 4D takes three-dimensional 3D ultrasound images and adds the element of time to the process. This allows you to see your unborn baby in amazing real time detail
This article comes from:

http://www.prenatalpeek.com/


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From a yawn to a stretch to the beating of your baby’s heart, expectant parents can now see and bond with their unborn child in live-motion 4D sonogram. The thrilling experience of seeing your baby’s face for the first time will truly touch your heart! To enhance this truly unique parent-fetal bonding experience, our centers are exclusively designed with a spacious family theater with seating for 10 guests. You can see incredible fetal images (3D ultrasound) and real-time movements (4D ultrasound) in two strategically placed high-resolution monitors and on a 100-inch overhead screen. We capture this personalized session on DVD and VHS video – both set to lullaby music. Sonogram includes B/W and color photos, CD (with 40-80 images), scan report and a baby website. Our courteous staff will provide you with the ultimate 4D experience that will forever make the first encounter with your unborn baby uniquely memorable to last a lifetime!

Imagine being able to see your unborn baby sucking her thumb...

Imagine seeing him wave the little hand at you...

Imagine seeing all this on a 100-inch theater screen with family and friends...

4D Fetal Imaging is a specialized prenatal imaging center offering elective 3D 4D ultrasound. We use one of the latest ultrasound systems in the world today. As the undisputed leader in 4D ultrasound technology this system is far advanced than other machines in delivering a higher frame rate. This means you get clearer and beautiful photos of your baby and a realistic high resolution quality of the video/DVD.

4D ultrasound is just as safe* and uses the EXACT same intensity of ultrasonic waves as the conventional 2D ultrasound done in your doctor's office. The software component of this advanced system creates the amazing 3D 4D images, not a higher intensity output. In addition, our safety guidelines dictate the system to be used in the Safe Obstetric Application Mode while rendering the real time 4 D images.

3D ultrasounds are performed from 18-38 weeks, though the optimum time is between 24-34 weeks. Come in earlier to take advantage of our 2-visit package or the girlfriend upgrade! Scans are performed by registered and certified technicians trained exclusively in the specialized 3D/4D ultrasound. We only scan mothers who are currently under prenatal care and have undergone the diagnostic ultrasound exam by a health care provider.

Visit our two convenient locations:

San Jose : 4040 Moorpark Avenue, ( Saratoga Ave South exit, Route 280)
San Francisco : 150 Executive Park Blvd, ( Monster Park exit, Route 101)
Weekends (Saturday & Sunday) and Evening appointments available!

* Women seeking an elective prenatal ultrasound at 4D Fetal Imaging must already be receiving treatment with a healthcare provider for prenatal care and have already undergone a medical, diagnostic ultrasound to confirm due date, screen for fetal anomalies and for any other pregnancy related issues. During the elective session, a limited diagnostic exam will be conducted for heart rate, number of babies, baby presentation, placental location and gender ID (if requested). Only if an abnormality is suspected, your physician will be notified and a report will be provided. Please note, at no time should this elective procedure be considered a substitute for a complete diagnostic ultrasound.
This article comes from:
http://www.4dfetalimaging.com/

三维超声的各国语言：

(越南) Siêu âm 3D

(印尼文) 3D USG

(意第绪语) 3ד ולטראַסאָונד

(意大利语) 3D ad ultrasuoni

(匈牙利语) 3D ultrahang

(希腊语) Υπέρηχος

(希伯来语) אולטראסאונד

(西班牙语) Ecografía 3D

(威尔士语) 3D uwchsain

(乌克兰文) 3D Ультразвукові

(土耳其文) 3D ultrason

(泰文) 3d ล ต ร้า ซาวด์

(斯洛文尼亚语) 3D ultrazvok

(斯洛伐克文) 3D ultrazvuk

(塞尔维亚文) 3Д Ултразвук

(瑞典语) 3D Ultraljud

(葡萄牙语) Ecografia 3D

(挪威语) 3D Ultralyd

(马其顿语) 3D ултразвук

(罗马尼亚语) 3D cu ultrasunete

(立陶宛语) 3D ultragarso

(克罗地亚文) 3D ultrazvuk

(捷克语) 3D ultrazvuk

(加泰罗尼亚语) Ecografia 3D

(加利西亚语) Ecografía 3D

(荷兰语) 3D Echografie

(芬兰语) 3D Ultraääni

(菲律宾文) 3D ultratunog

(俄语) 3D Ультразвуковая

(德语) 3D Ultraschall

(丹麦语) 3D ultralyd

(朝鲜语) 3D 좌석 초음파

(布尔文-南非荷兰语) 3D ultraklank

(波斯语) سونوگرافی 3D

(波兰语) 3D ultradźwięki

(冰岛语) 3D Úthljóð

(保加利亚文) 3D ултразвук

(爱沙尼亚语) 3D ultraheli

(阿拉伯文) 3D الموجات فوق الصوتية

(阿尔巴尼亚文) 3D ultratinguj

3D Ultrasound in various languages：

(Vietnamese) Siêu âm 3D

(Yiddish)  3ד ולטראַסאָונד

(Indonesian) 3D USG

(Italian) 3D ad ultrasuoni

(Hungarian) 3D ultrahang

(Greece) Υπέρηχος

(Hebrew) אולטראסאונד

(Spanish) Ecografía 3D

(Ukrainian) 3D Ультразвукова

(Kymric) 3D Uwchsain

(Turkish) 3D Ultrason

(Thai) 3d ล ต ร้า ซาวด์

(Slovenia) 3D ultrazvok

(Slovak) 3D ultrazvuk

(Serbian) 3Д Ултразвук

(Swedish) 3D Ultraljud

(Macedonian) 3D ултразвук

(Portuguese) Ecografia 3D

(Norwegian) 3D Ultralyd

(Romanian) 3D cu ultrasunete

(Galician) Ecografía 3D

(Croatian) 3D ultrazvuk

(Czech) 3D ultrazvuk

(Catalan) Ecografia 3D

(Finnish) 3D Ultraääni

(Filipino) 3D ultratunog

(French) 3D Ultrasound

(Russian) 3D Ультразвуковая

(German) 3D Ultraschall

(Danish) 3D Ultrasound

(Korean) 3D 좌석 초음파

(Farsi)  سونوگرافی 3D

(Iceland)  3D Úthljóð

(Bulgarian) 3D ултразвук

(Estonian) 3D ultraheli

(Arabic) 3D الموجات فوق الصوتية

(Albanian) 3D ultratinguj