Ultrasound
What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging method that uses high-frequency sound
waves to produce images of structures within the body. The high-frequency
sound waves are concentrated into a thin beam and directed into the body with
a transducer, which is a small hand-held wand that the technologist uses to
perform the examination. The sound waves reflect off internal structures,
and the returning echoes are received by the transducer and then processed
by a computer to produce real-time moving images. Ultrasound is commonly used
to evaluate the abdominal and pelvic organs, breasts, thyroid gland, and testes,
and well as blood flow in arteries and veins.
What Should I Expect?
You will be positioned on an exam table and a clear gel will be applied
to your skin. The gel is used to eliminate air bubbles between the transducer
and your body, since the sound waves travel very poorly through air. The
transducer is pressed against the skin and moved back and forth to visualize
the area of interest.
Ultrasound does not use radiation and is thus a very safe imaging technique. It is also painless, though you may experience some discomfort from the pressure applied to the transducer, especially if you are required to have a full bladder for your exam. The examination usually takes from 15 to 30 minutes, after which you will be able to return to your normal activities.
How Should I Prepare?
For many exams no preparation is needed. However, if your abdomen or pelvis
is being evaluated, you may be instructed not to eat or drink for 12 hours
before your test. You may also be asked to drink several glasses of water 2
hours before your test and to avoid urinating, so that your bladder is full
during the exam. You should wear comfortable loose-fitting clothing, and you
may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
How Do I Get the Results?
After your study is over, the images will be evaluated by one of our board-certified
radiologists with expertise in ultrasound imaging. A final report will be
sent to your doctor, who can then discuss the results with you in detail.
For more information please visit www.Radiologyinfo.org
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