Ultrasound photographs are physical printouts provided by a medical office, often serving as a highly valued keepsake for parents-to-be. These images, captured during a diagnostic scan, are typically generated by a dedicated printer connected directly to the ultrasound machine. Print sizes are rarely standardized across all clinics and facilities. Understanding the common dimensions and the factors influencing them is helpful for preserving this unique memento.
Standard Dimensions of Keepsake Prints
The most common ultrasound print size originates from the standard thermal paper rolls used in medical video printers. The most widely adopted paper width is approximately 110 millimeters, roughly corresponding to the A6 international paper size format. This roll is cut into strips, resulting in a common physical print dimension of approximately 4 x 3 inches.
The small strip format is frequently distributed because it is the fastest way for a technician to provide a tangible image from the machine’s dedicated printer. Some facilities, however, utilize larger, photo-quality paper for high-resolution images, especially for 3D or 4D scans. These larger printouts often align with standard consumer photo dimensions, such as 4 x 6 inches, making them easier to frame.
Why Ultrasound Photo Sizes Vary
The primary cause of size variability stems from the specialized equipment used to generate the image. Ultrasound machines are often paired with dedicated thermal printers from manufacturers like Sony or Mitsubishi, each requiring specific paper roll widths. Facilities select a printer and paper combination based on their diagnostic needs and budget, which dictates the resulting print size.
The paper rolls are commercially available in a few standard widths, including 84 mm (A7), 110 mm (A6), and 210 mm (A4), with the A6 width being the most popular choice. The print length is determined by the image formatting and the technician’s preference when cutting the continuous roll.
Handling and Preserving Thermal Prints
The vast majority of ultrasound keepsakes are printed on thermal paper, a fragile medium sensitive to environmental factors. Thermal paper uses a chemical coating that reacts to heat from the printer head, making it susceptible to damage from external heat and light. Direct sunlight and even fluorescent light can cause the image to fade, yellow, or entirely disappear over time.
For long-term preservation, the prints should be stored in a dark, dry environment with an ambient temperature below 77°F (25°C) and relative humidity below 65%. Avoid placing the print in contact with common plastics, such as those found in some photo albums, or with adhesives, as the chemicals can degrade the image. The most effective preservation method is to immediately scan the physical print at a high resolution to create a permanent digital file.