What is a key application of sonography in obstetrics?

Monitoring fetal development is a key application of sonography in obstetrics because it allows healthcare providers to visualize the fetus in utero, assess growth, and evaluate various aspects of fetal health. Through the use of ultrasound, practitioners can measure the fetus's size, check for structural abnormalities, assess amniotic fluid levels, and monitor the heartbeat. This imaging technique plays a critical role in early detection of potential complications, thus enabling timely interventions when needed.

In contrast, identifying tumors primarily falls within the diagnostic realm of sonography in other medical fields, rather than obstetrics specifically. Treating gallbladder disease involves different therapeutic approaches, typically surgical or medical, rather than imaging. Assessing kidney function is also an important application of sonography, but it pertains to urology and nephrology rather than obstetric care. Overall, the primary focus of sonography in obstetrics is on the assessment and monitoring of fetal health and development throughout pregnancy.