Ultrasound

What is an Ultrasound?

An ultrasound, also known as sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the inside of your body. It’s a non-invasive and radiation-free imaging technique.

How Does It Work?

- Preparation:
  - Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may need to change into a hospital gown.
  - Dietary Restrictions: Depending on the type of ultrasound, you might need to fast or have a full bladder. For example, abdominal ultrasounds often require fasting, while pelvic ultrasounds may require drinking water to fill the bladder ¹.
  - Medical Records: Bring any relevant medical documents or instructions from your doctor.

During the scan

Positioning: You’ll lie on an examination table, and a sonographer will apply a special lubricating gel to your skin. This gel helps transmit sound waves.
Transducer: The sonographer uses a device called a transducer, which emits high-frequency sound waves into your body. The sound waves bounce off internal structures and return to the transducer ².
Imaging: The transducer converts the reflected sound waves into electrical signals, which are then processed by a computer to create images or videos displayed on a monitor ³.

Procedure:

Stay Still: It’s important to remain still during the scan to ensure clear images.
Duration: The scan typically takes between 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the area being examined.

What to Expect?

- Comfort: The procedure is painless, though you might feel slight pressure from the transducer.
- Safety: Ultrasound is safe and does not use ionizing radiation, making it ideal for monitoring pregnancy and other sensitive conditions ¹.
- Results: The images help doctors diagnose conditions and guide procedures.
After the Scan:
- Normal Activities: You can usually resume normal activities immediately after the scan.
- Follow-Up: Your doctor will review the images and discuss the results with you.
Common Uses of Ultrasound:
- Abdominal Issues: Examining organs like the liver, kidneys, and gallbladder.
- Vascular: Evaluating blood vessels for blockages located in the carotid, upper and lower extremities.
- Musculoskeletal: Evaluating muscles, tendons, and joints.