Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a safe diagnostic procedure in which high frequency sound waves produce an image of many of the internal structures of the body.  Ultrasound images are created when a controlled sound wave bounces against objects.  Its echoing waves are used to identify how far away the object is, how large it is and how dense it is.

Preparation:  You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your ultrasound exam.  Other preparation depends upon the type of exam you will have.  For some exams your doctor may instruct you not to eat or drink for as many as 12 hours before your appointment.  You may be asked to drink 32 oz. of water 1 1/2 hours before your exam.  This will fill your bladder, which helps with visualization of the uterus and ovaries.

Procedure:  The ultrasound staff will explain more about your exam.  You will be asked to lie on a padded table.  Warm gel will be applied to your skin.  This prevents air from getting between the transducer (a small, hand-held device that resembles a microphone) and the skin.  The ultrasound technologist records pictures on X-ray film.  The pictures are shown to the radiologist.  The doctor may or may not enter the room for further assessment.  You can expect results from your physician in three to five days.

The different types of ultrasound are as follows:

• Abdominal ultrasound:  Used to examine the solid organs of the upper abdomen including liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, aorta, and spleen.
• Pelvic ultrasound:  Used to examine the pelvic organs including the uterus and ovaries.
• OB ultrasound:  Used to evaluate a pregnancy
• Doppler ultrasound:  Used to evaluate blood vessels.  Can be used to examine the veins or arteries in the neck, legs, and arms.