Overview:
Diagnostic ultrasound, also called sonography or diagnostic medical sonography, is an imaging method that uses sound waves to produce images of structures within your body. The images can provide valuable information for diagnosing and directing treatment for a variety of diseases and conditions. Most ultrasound examinations are done using an ultrasound device outside your body, though some involve placing a small device inside your body.
What is it used for?
Ultrasound is used for many reasons, including to:
View the uterus and ovaries during pregnancy and monitor the developing baby's health
Diagnose gallbladder disease
Evaluate blood flow
Guide a needle for biopsy or tumor treatment
Examine a breast lump
Check the thyroid gland
Find genital and prostate problems
Assess joint inflammation (synovitis)
Evaluate metabolic bone disease
Ultrasound for Procedures
Ultrasound guidance is commonly used for various medical procedures due to its non-invasive nature and ability to provide real-time imaging. It helps healthcare providers visualize internal structures and guide needles or instruments precisely to the target area. Some procedures commonly guided by ultrasound include biopsies, injections, aspirations, and catheter placements. The clear imaging provided by ultrasound enhances accuracy and safety, reducing the risk of complications and improving patient outcomes.
Ultrasound Preparation
Preparing for an ultrasound is typically straightforward. Patients are often asked to fast for a certain period before the procedure, especially for abdominal ultrasounds. They may also be instructed to drink water and refrain from urinating before certain types of ultrasounds, such as pelvic or kidney ultrasounds. Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing can also help facilitate the examination process.
What happens during an ultrasound?
During an ultrasound, you can expect to lie down on an examination table while a technician applies a special gel to the area being examined. This gel helps transmit sound waves and ensures clear imaging. The technician then moves a handheld device called a transducer over the area, emitting sound waves that bounce off internal structures and create images on a monitor. You may be asked to change positions or hold your breath briefly to optimize imaging. The procedure is painless and typically takes between 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the area being examined. Afterward, you can usually resume your normal activities with no downtime.
What happens after an ultrasound?
After an ultrasound, the images captured are reviewed by a radiologist or healthcare provider who interprets the results. They will analyze the images to make a diagnosis or assess the health of the examined area. Depending on the findings, further tests or treatments may be recommended. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and explain any necessary follow-up steps. In many cases, you can return to your normal activities immediately after the ultrasound without any restrictions.
Works Cited:
Mayo Clinic Staff. "Ultrasound." Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Accessed 15 March 2024, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ultrasound/about/pac-20395177.
MedlinePlus Staff. "Ultrasound." MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine, Accessed 15 March 2024, https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/sonogram/.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Staff. "Ultrasound Imaging." U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Accessed 15 March 2024, https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/medical-imaging/ultrasound-imaging.
Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
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