What
is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves
that pass harmlessly through the skin. These
sound waves bounce off organs and other
tissues creating echoes. They help
differentiate between soft tissues and their
fluid-filled structures. The echoes that are
created can be analyzed by our sophisticated
computer and generate a moving image on our
screen.
What are the advantages to Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a painless, non-invasive,
diagnostic test that does not use radiation to
produce images. It is a valuable resource to
evaluate the condition of the fetus or embryo
in pregnant woman. Ultrasound is also useful
in the visualization and diagnosis of many
organs such as, but not limited to, the liver,
uterus, ovaries, thryroid, and aorta. It is
also used to help evaluate blood clots or the
narrowing of vessels.
Is there any risk to having an
Ultrasound?
There are no known risk factors to having
an Ultrasound exam.
What are the expectations to having an
Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a very easy and safe
procedure to have performed. The technologist
will assist you on the table and ask you to
hold still. A special gel will be applied
directly to your skin. The experienced
technologist will then use a small transducer
(it looks like a microphone) and will move it
around the gel to help produce pictures of
your organs and blood vessels. You may be
asked to hold your breath on occasion.
Is there any preparation for an
Ultrasound?
Pregnancy or pelvic Ultrasound: Drink 32
oz. of water before the exam BUT the patient
must be finished drinking one hour before the
exam start.
Abdominal Ultrasound: Nothing to eat or
drink for 6 to 8 hours before the test. A
small amount of water may be taken for any
medication that needs to be taken.
How long does an Ultrasound take?
The procedure generally takes about 20-45
minutes but this may vary depending on what is
being examined. |
