Ultrasound

What is Ultrasound Imaging?

Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, is a method of obtaining images from inside the human body through the use of high frequency sound waves. The reflected sound wave echoes are recorded and displayed as a real-time visual image. No ionizing radiation (x-ray) is involved in ultrasound imaging.

Obstetric ultrasound refers to the specialized use of sound waves to visualize and thus determine the condition of a pregnant woman and her embryo or foetus.

Common Uses of the Ultrasound Procedure

Ultrasound is a useful way of examining many of the body’s internal organs, including but not limited to the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys and bladder. As ultrasound images are captured in real time, they can show movement of internal tissues and organs and enable radiologists to see blood flow and heart valve functions.

This can help to diagnose a variety of heart conditions and to assess damage after a heart attack or other illness.

Ultrasound Procedure

Ultrasound scanners consist of a console containing a computer and electronics, a video display screen and a transducer that is used to scan the body. The radiographer spreads a lubricating gel on the patients abdomen in the area being examined and then presses the transducer firmly against the skin to obtain images.

Most ultrasound examinations are painless, fast and easy. You will lie on your back on an examining table The radiographer will spread warm gel on your skin and then press the transducer firmly against your body, moving it until the desired images are captured.

There may be varying degrees of discomfort from pressure as the radiographer guides the transducer over your abdomen, especially if you are required to have a full bladder.

Ultrasound has difficulty penetrating bone and therefore can only see the outer surface of bone structures and not what lies within. For visualization of bone, other imaging modalities such as MRI may be selected.

How should I prepare for an Ultrasound?

You should wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing for your ultrasound exam. Other preparation depends on the type of examination you will have. For some scans your doctor may instruct you not to eat or drink for as many as 12 hours before your appointment.

For others you may be asked to drink up to six glasses of water two hours prior to your exam and avoid urinating so that the bladder is full when the scan begins.