Ultrasound,
or sonography, is a diagnostic study used to examine internal
structures of the body using sound waves. These high frequency
sound waves are used to assess the progress of fetal development,
to evaluate internal organs and to image blood vessels. Ultrasound
is a very effective tool that can help your doctor make an accurate
diagnosis and determine proper treatment.
What
is Ultrasound used for?
Obstetrics
In obstetrics, ultrasound is used to examine the developing
baby or fetus. Your physician may utilize this examination
to confirm the age of the baby and predict the date of delivery.
Performed at the discretion of your physician, ultrasound
provides valuable information about the health and well being
of the fetus. Our obstetrical patients can receive a photograph
of the fetus to take home.
Gynecology
Ultrasound plays a prominent role in gynecology. It is used
to examine the pelvic organs and to evaluate pelvic masses.
Ultrasound can detect abnormalities of the ovaries and uterus
and is very useful in the diagnosis of problems causing pelvic
pain. Ultrasound also can help to monitor ovulation in treating
infertility.
Other
Uses
Ultrasound is also used to evaluate other organs such as the
thyroid, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, kidneys, breast, and
scrotum. Ultrasound can be utilized to help guide the radiologist
when performing breast cyst aspirations or breast biopsies.
Ultrasound is also used to image and assess blood flow to
the brain, and through the arms and legs. It can also serve
to determine the presence of an abnormal blood vessel, such
as an aneurysm.
Your
Ultrasound Experience
Your ultrasound
will be performed in a comfortable and private environment.
During your exam, you will rest on an examination table. A
certified ultrasound specialist called a sonographer will
apply a gel to the area of your body to be examined. This
gel eliminated any air between your skin and the ultrasound
source. The ultrasound source, called a transducer, is then
held to the area to be examined. The transducer emits sound
waves into your body and listens for echoes reflected back
from the internal organs. These echoes are then converted
into a picture, which can be seen on a television-like screen.
For some pelvic and obstetrical exams, a full bladder is required.
To obtain this, you must drink at least four to six glasses
of water one hour before the exam. You cannot empty your bladder
until the exam is complete. In some instances, a vaginal transducer
is utilized to provide additional, detailed information about
pelvic structures. The entire exam takes about only 30 minutes.
A radiologist with expertise in ultrasound imaging will interpret
your study and issue a report to you physician.
