USG Image Orientation
📘 Table of Contents
Transducer Indicator (Notch or Groove)
📍 Transducer Indicator (Notch or Groove)
The transducer indicator is a physical notch, groove, or light mark on the ultrasound probe. It plays a critical role in maintaining proper orientation during a scan.
Why It's Important
- Ensures Consistency: Aligns the scan image on the screen with the anatomical direction of the patient.
- Improves Accuracy: Allows for standardized interpretation and reproducibility.
- Prevents Confusion: Helps avoid misinterpretation of left/right or superior/inferior anatomy.
Orientation Conventions
- Sagittal View: Indicator faces toward the patient's head (cephalad).
- Transverse View: Indicator faces the patient's right side.
- Coronal View: Indicator typically points anterior or superior depending on scan setup.
📝 Clinical Tip
Match the probe indicator to the on-screen image marker. This alignment ensures that “left” on the screen matches anatomical left/right positioning depending on scan plane.
Suggested Diagram
- Illustration of a transducer with an arrow or groove indicator.
- Side-by-side comparison of screen image vs. patient anatomy direction.
- Marker showing correct probe orientation for transverse and sagittal views.
Anatomical Planes in Ultrasound
Anatomical Planes in Ultrasound
Understanding anatomical planes is essential for accurate ultrasound interpretation. Each plane offers a different perspective of internal anatomy depending on probe orientation and patient position.
Common Ultrasound Planes
| Plane | Indicator Direction | Displayed Anatomy (Left → Right) |
|---|---|---|
| Longitudinal (Sagittal) | Cephalad (toward the head) | Superior → Inferior |
| Transverse | Right | Right → Left |
| Coronal | Anterior or Superior | Anterior → Posterior |
Visual Tip
Always verify the probe indicator and on-screen marker. Misalignment between the two can result in reversed anatomy, especially in transverse scans.
Diagram Suggestion
- Side-view diagram showing sagittal plane through body.
- Cross-sectional view for transverse anatomy.
- Coronal view illustration with labeled organs (e.g., kidneys, uterus).
Probe Positions
Probe Positions in Ultrasound
Different clinical applications require specific probe positions and orientations to optimize image acquisition. Each approach provides a distinct window into anatomical structures.
Common Probe Positions & Uses
- Subcostal: Probe placed under the rib cage, angled superiorly — ideal for viewing the liver, IVC, and heart.
- Intercostal: Probe placed between the ribs — used for cardiac or pleural imaging.
- Suprapubic: Probe positioned above the pubic bone — common for pelvic imaging, especially bladder and uterus.
- Transvaginal: High-resolution internal imaging of uterus and ovaries with an endocavitary probe.
- Transrectal: Used for prostate imaging and rectal wall evaluation.
- Transabdominal: General-purpose approach for abdominal and OB scans.
- Parasternal: Cardiac imaging from the side of the sternum in the left 3rd or 4th intercostal space.
- Posterior Thoracic: For evaluating pleural effusions and posterior lung bases.
Orientation Tips
Each probe position follows its own convention for the direction of the transducer indicator:
- Always match the on-screen marker with the probe notch.
- Follow protocols per region (e.g., obstetric = indicator to maternal right).
🖼 Diagram Suggestion
Include a human figure labeled with each probe position to visually guide placement and orientation.
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