Ultrasound

An Ultrasound relies on the principle of sonar, or the movement of sound waves. The internal organs and tissues in the body reflect sound waves in ways that are unique to each type of tissues making it possible to differentiate one organ from another. Operating at frequencies much higher than we can hear, ultrasounds are silent.

Ultrasound waves are sent through the body via a transducer that is placed against your skin, near the area of interest. The sound waves then bounce or echo back from the internal organs, resulting in a computerized picture.

Ultrasound can be used to image most soft-tissue organs such as the reproductive system, kidneys, pancreas and liver. Since ultrasound waves cannot  penetrate bone, it is not suitable for evaluating most of the musculoskeletal system. 

Most commonly used in obstetrics, ultrasound is used to image the fetus and monitor its progress throughout pregnancy. It provides information about a baby's movements, breathing and other bodily functions as well as helping doctors determine if the fetus has congenital problems or is in distress.

Ultrasound is also used routinely in detecting gallstones, abnormalities of the liver or spleen and blockages in the kidneys. It can be used in identifying specific heart conditions
and dysfunctions in other organs and bodily systems.

Getting Ready For Your Ultrasound:
You will need to remove clothing over the area the ultrasound is to image so the transducer can be placed on the skin. A gel solution is used to improve contact between the skin and the transducer.

The Test:
An ultrasound is non-invasive, fast and free of ionizing radiation. Depending on the type of ultrasound, exam times ranges from 30 minutes to a few hours.

If a biopsy is required to evaluate a lesion, the needle involved in the procedure may cause some discomfort and special preparation and recover will be necessary. Your technologist, as instructed by your physician and our radiologists will attend to you each step of the way.

Ultrasound is not recommended for indiscriminate use, such as imaging a fetus to determine sex or just to have a look. However, it is frequently used in obstetrics to help determine due date, fetal heart motion, fetal abnormalities, maternal diabetes & excessive or decreased amniotic fluid.

After the Test:
Once your ultrasound is complete you can resume your daily routine.