1.5.3 2D and 3/4D ultrasound technology Since 2003, there have been advances in ultrasound imaging technology with applications such as two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound scanning, which provides a greyscale image of the detailed internal structures of the foetus. With additional software, the same ultrasound machine can also produce enhanced images using 3/4D scans. Currently, sonographers are involved in utilising scan technologies in hospital and private-clinic environments at various stages during pregnancy . These technologies offer an in-depth examination of the foetal anatomy (2D), while applications such as 3/4D make foetal facial expressions evident and create easily recognisable images (Ji et al. 2005). The foetal face, arms, legs, fingers, and toes can be reconstructed as surfaces in multiple planes (Rustico et al. 2005). The 4D component of the ultrasound in the spatial visual plane includes depth that is associated with real-time movement. The surface detail of the foetus is greatly visualised, its movements are delineated and its facial movements (for example, smiles, frowns and yawns) are easily appreciated, thus allowing parents to see a very lifelike image of their baby (sample images of ultrasound scans, both 2D and 3/4D, are presented in Appendix 1). 1.5.4 Sonographers’ clinical autonomy, competency and role expansion 1.5.4.1 Autonomy to communicate ultrasound scan findings immediately In the last decade, the practice and competencies of sonographers engaged in their clinical roles have not been well documented although their profile and training needs to provide an ultrasound service within the requirements of the NSC Downs programme has. In 2003, the Department of Health urged for modernisation of radiogr… … middle of paper … …tailed normality scan, to counsel her about available choices such as having amniocentesis to determine the chromosomal risk. 1.6 Summary This introductory chapter has provided an outline of the organisation of the current U.K. antenatal screening programme, which incorporates the highly visual technology of ultrasound within obstetric ultrasound and the role sonographers who perform the routine ultrasound scans. We have considered important factors that impact on pregnant women’s experiences, their perceptions, information requirements, and their need to be reassured about the foetal health and wellbeing. The primary goal of detection of foetal abnormalities during an ultrasound scan requires further exploration, as communication of the findings is a dynamic process. Next, in chapter 2, we look at the medicalisation of pregnancy and the impact of techno medicine.
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