What is Ultrasound?

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.