Sonography and radiologic technology are two essential fields in diagnostic imaging that often work closely together. Both provide valuable insights into a patient's health. While these fields are closely related, there are critical distinctions between them that patients and health care providers should understand. Keep reading to learn the differences.
What Is Sonography?
Sonography, also known as an ultrasound, is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that relies on high-frequency sound waves to create images of your organs, tissues and blood flow. Sonographers, or diagnostic medical sonographers, are health care professionals who specialize in performing these ultrasound examinations. They operate ultrasound machines to obtain clear images necessary for a diagnosis.
What Is Radiography?
Radiography is a type of medical imaging procedure that helps providers diagnose and treat injuries and diseases using various imaging equipment, including X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans and nuclear medicine scanners.
Radiologic technologists who studied radiography play an essential role in this process, as they generate high-quality scans for radiologists to interpret. Precise images are essential for radiologists, who analyze these images to provide diagnostic reports and collaborate with other health care professionals to guide patient care.
Differences Between Sonography and Radiography
The main difference between sonography and radiography is the type of technology being used to generate images. Sonography uses high-frequency sound waves that are safe and noninvasive, making it well-suited for imaging during pregnancy and for repeated examinations. On the other hand, radiography uses ionizing radiation (like in X-rays and CT scans) to produce images that have minimal risks but can provide highly detailed views of bones and certain organs.
Education and Job Responsibilities
Sonographers and radiologic techs have different roles and responsibilities.
Sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to capture images, position patients for optimal image acquisition and assess image quality, adjusting their techniques as needed.
A radiologic technologist’s responsibilities include:
- Ensuring the safety and accuracy of the imaging procedures
- Maintaining detailed patient records
- Positioning patients correctly for their scan
Both sonographers and radiologic techs generate preliminary detailed reports for the radiologist to diagnose and consult with other physicians and health care providers.
Radiologic Technologist
Education
Becoming a radiologic technologist requires a focused educational pathway. Prospective technologists must first complete an accredited radiography program, which typically takes two years and leads to an associate degree. Some may pursue a bachelor's degree in radiologic or imaging sciences for further specialization and advancement opportunities. After graduation, technologists must pass a certification exam administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and obtain state licensure where applicable.
Job Responsibilities
Radiologic technologists are integral to the medical imaging process, specializing in capturing high-quality images that aid in diagnosing and treating diseases and injuries. They operate advanced imaging equipment and ensure that images are clear and accurate for radiologists to interpret.
As a radiologic technologist, you will:
- Position patients correctly to obtain the best quality images while ensuring their comfort and safety
- Operate imaging equipment, such as X-ray, CT and MRI machines
- Adjust and maintain imaging equipment for optimal performance
- Collaborate with radiologists and other health care professionals to ensure accurate image interpretation and patient care
- Maintain detailed patient records and document imaging procedures
- Ensure radiation safety protocols are followed to protect patients and staff
- Provide support during diagnostic procedures
In addition to hospitals, radiologic technologists also work in medical labs, doctor’s offices and outpatient imaging centers or clinics.
Sonographer
Education
To become a sonographer, you must complete an accredited sonography program. These programs are typically two years and may lead to a certificate or an associate degree. Some sonographers pursue additional education, such as a bachelor's degree in diagnostic medical sonography or imaging sciences. Coursework for these programs generally includes anatomy and physiology, medical imaging physics, patient care and the principles of ultrasound technology. Sonography programs include hands-on training in ultrasound techniques to get students career-ready. Depending on the state, the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) may need to credential sonographers for professional certification.
Job Responsibilities
As a sonographer, you will:
- Operate ultrasound equipment to capture medical images of patients
- Position patients and ensure their comfort and safety during imaging procedures
- Follow protocols and guidelines to obtain clear images for radiologists
- Assess image quality and adjust techniques as needed
- Provide initial observations on image findings to the interpreting radiologist
- Assist radiologists and other health care professionals during specialized ultrasound procedures
Sonographers work in a variety of settings, such as outpatient imaging clinics, hospitals and doctor’s offices.
How to Become a Sonographer or Radiologic Tech
If you’re interested in a career in radiologic technology or sonography, contact us to learn more about our programs and how we can help you take the next step.
