|
| 00 |
|
00 |
| |
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. This method of imaging may be used to diagnose
abnormalities of various organs, structures and blood vessels.
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 fetus.
Elective 3D/4D Ultrasound refers to the cosmetic procedure that allows parents
to view their baby before it is born.
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
000FAQ? |
|
| |
|
|
|
• How does Ultrasound work ? |
|
|
To begin an ultrasound exam, a warm gel is applied to the surface of the skin. This gel acts as a conductor of sound and prevents air from getting between the skin and the transducer (a small device that acts like a microphone). As the technologist moves the transducer, sound waves are sent through the skin. When these waves bounce off certain structures, echoes are produced and then picked up by the transducer. The echoes are converted into images by the computer, which are viewed on a computer screen in real time by the technologist.
|
|
|
|
|
|
• What is a 3D Ultrasound and when should it be performed? |
|
|
A 3D ultrasound is a cosmetic procedure performed to allow parents to view their baby before it is born. This elective procedure is not considered medically necessary therefore it is not covered by insurance and does not require a doctor's order.
A 3D ultrasound produces the best quality photos when an expectant mother is between 26-32 weeks pregnant. |
|
|
|
|
|
• Is Ultrasound safe? |
|
|
Ultrasound is widely available and easy to use. There are no known harmful effects for standard diagnostic ultrasounds.
|
|
|
|
|
|
• Why do I need a full bladder for a pelvic Ultrasound? |
|
|
A full bladder is required for a pelvic ultrasound because liquid allows the sound waves to travel more easily around surrounding tissue and air, which helps the radiologist see the organs better.
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
• Why do I have to fast for at least 4 hours before an abdominal Ultrasound? |
|
| |
Fasting for at least 4 hours before an abdominal ultrasound is required because eating and drinking introduce air into the stomach and bowel. Sound waves cannot penetrate air, which makes it more difficult to get a clear image of the organs in this area. Eating also causes the gallbladder to contract. Motion of the gallbladder prevents accurate images from being obtained by the computer.
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
• What can I expect when I arrive for my Ultrasound? |
|
| |
You will be greeted at the front desk and asked to complete some paperwork. You may download this paperwork from the patient resources section of this website. Once you have completed the paperwork, a technologist will show you to the ultrasound suite. |
|
| |
|
|
| |
• How will my Ultrasound be performed ? |
|
| |
Before your ultrasound study, you may or may not have to change into an examination gown. We suggest that you wear comfortable clothing that provides easy access to the part of the body being studied.
Your ultrasound study will be performed by a registered technologist who will position you on the examination table.
Next, warm gel will be applied to the area of the body being studied. The technologist will move the ultrasound transducer over this area as images are recorded in real time by the computer. Although the technologist can see the images on the computer screen, he or she is not at liberty to discuss any of the results.
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
• How long will my Ultrasound exam last ? |
|
| |
Most procedures typically take less than 45 minutes, depending on the part of the body being studied. |
|
| |
|
|
| |
• Why would my doctor order an Ultrasound? |
|
| |
Ultrasound is a useful way of examining many of the body's internal organs, including the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder. Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show movement of internal tissues and organs and enable physicians to see blood flow. Millions of expectant parents have seen the first "picture" of their unborn child with pelvic ultrasound examinations of the uterus and fetus. Ultrasound imaging is used extensively for evaluating the eyes, pelvic and abdominal organs, heart, and blood vessels, and can help a physician determine the source of pain, swelling, or infection in many parts of the body. Because ultrasound provides real-time images, it can also be used to guide procedures such as breast cyst aspirations, in which a needle is used to remove the fluid from a cyst.
Ultrasound is also used to evaluate superficial structures, such as the thyroid gland and scrotum (testicles). |
|
| |
|
|
| |
• When will I get my results? |
|
| |
Your results should be available in your physician's office within 24 hours. |
|
| |
|
|
