In a longitudinal scan, where is the marker pointed?

In a longitudinal scan, the marker is pointed toward the cornea. This positioning is critical because it helps orient the sonographer in relation to the anatomical structures being examined. By directing the marker toward the cornea, the sonographer can ensure that they are visualizing a longitudinal view of the eye, which is essential for accurately interpreting the sonographic images and identifying various ocular pathologies.

The longitudinal scan is primarily used to assess the axial length of the globe and visualize structures such as the lens, vitreous, and retina in a manner that is consistent and reproducible. Proper marker orientation helps align the ultrasound beam along the axis of the eye, ensuring that the resulting images reflect the anatomical relationships as they exist in real life. This allows for a clearer assessment and facilitates communication of findings to other healthcare professionals. Understanding this orientation is vital for any diagnostic procedure involving ocular ultrasound.