Angie's LIST Guide to
Ultrasound diagnostics

Ultrasound technicians are often required to possess a minimum of an associate's degree, and some have only a post-secondary certificate. A large majority of employers also require those in this field to hold a special certification.

Technicians specialize in helping diagnose both potential health issues and progression of healing. For example, those who specialize in obstetrics can help expectant parents see their developing baby and track the mom's reproductive tract during pregnancy.

Many specialists have a subspecialty. Abdominal sonographers analyze the abdominal cavity and organs closeby, such as the liver, pancreas, kidney, gallbladder and spleen. Musculoskeletal sonographers evaluate the ligaments, joints, muscles and tendons. Gynecologic and obstetric sonographers examine the female reproductive system and the developing fetus. Breast sonographers concentrate on breast health and often play an integral role in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment progress. Neurosonographers study the brain and nervous system. Ophthalmology sonographers focus on the eyes and their structures. Echocardiographers study the heart's blood flow and the associated valves. Vascular technologists work with abdominal blood vessels and the blood flow of the peripheral vessels.

Within these subspecialties, those in this field can assist in the diagnosis and tracking of a wide variety of injuries and illnesses.