What is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound Imaging, also referred to as Sonography, is a method of obtaining images from inside the body through the use of high frequency sound waves. The sound waves reflect echoes which are electronically recorded and displayed on a monitor. These images are a real-time record of the moving functions of the body. For example, Ultrasound displays the movement of a fetus in its mother's body at that moment. Ultrasound is a completely safe and painless procedure using no radiation. Nearly every organ in the body can be examined by Ultrasound. There are no known harmful effects on humans from Ultrasound.
Why an Ultrasound?
An Ultrasound is the best way to non-invasively see inside your body and is ideal for:
Can anyone have an Ultrasound?
Yes. An Ultrasound is a non-invasive, painless procedure that is tolerated by all patients.
What do I expect during an Ultrasound?
If your doctor has ordered any type of Ultrasound of the gallbladder and abdomen, we ask that you do not eat or drink anything 8 hours prior to your exam. Necessary medications may be taken, but only with enough water to wash them down. OB-GYN studies require that you arrive with your bladder full. Drink one quart of water one hour before the exam and DO NOT urinate. For all other Ultrasounds, you may eat and drink normally. When you schedule your exam at our clinic, our staff will inform you of any special preparations required.
You may be asked to remove clothing and change into a patient gown or wear loose, comfortable clothing, as some articles of clothing interfere with the Ultrasound.
You will then lie on the examination table, usually on your back. The technologist will apply the warm gel to the area that will be scanned then sweeps the transducer firmly against the skin emitting silent, high-frequency sound waves. The image created is immediately displayed on the monitor for the technologist to evaluate. Discomfort is minimal as the technologist moves and positions the transducer to produce images from various angles.
Most Ultrasounds take approximately 20 to 60 minutes to complete, depending upon the scan.
When will I get the results of my Ultrasound?
A Board Certified Radiologist will review and evaluate your Ultrasound images within 24 hours following your scan. The radiologist will provide your referring physician with an interpretation of the results of the Ultrasound scan. Your health-care provider can then make a diagnosis and explain what the findings mean with you.