An overview of Ultrasound
An ultrasound test, also known as diagnostic ultrasound or sonography, is an imaging method that uses sound waves to produce images of structures within the body. It is a painless and safe procedure that helps diagnose and direct treatment for various diseases and conditions. During the test, a trained technician (sonographer) uses a small, hand-held device (transducer) to emit and collect sound waves, which are then processed by a computer to create images. Most ultrasound examinations are done outside the body, but some involve placing a small device inside the body, such as through natural openings like the esophagus, rectum, or vagina. Ultrasound has limitations, as it cannot travel well through air or bone and may not be effective for imaging certain body parts or deep structures.
What is Ultrasound used for?
Ultrasound is used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Viewing the uterus and ovaries during pregnancy
- Diagnosing gallbladder disease
- Evaluating blood flow
- Guiding a needle for biopsy or tumor treatment
- Examining a breast lump
- Checking the thyroid gland
- Finding genital and prostate problems
- Assessing joint inflammation (synovitis)
It is a safe procedure that uses low-power sound waves and does not have known risks.
How to prepare for Ultrasound?
Depending on the specific type of ultrasound exam, there may or may not be any specific preparations required. In general, most ultrasound exams don't require any special preparations. However, there are exceptions, such as for a gallbladder ultrasound where your care provider may ask you to not eat or drink for a certain period of time before the exam. It's essential to follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. You should wear loose clothing, remove jewelry from the area being examined, and expect to change into a gown for the exam. Additionally, you may need to remove or reposition some or all of your clothing and lie on an examination table.
How is Ultrasound conducted?
An ultrasound test is conducted by applying a safe, water-based gel to the skin over the area being examined. A trained technician (sonographer) then presses a small, hand-held device (transducer) against the skin and moves it as needed to capture images. The transducer sends sound waves into the body and collects the ones that bounce back, sending them to a computer to create images. In some cases, ultrasounds may involve inserting a small device into a natural opening in the body. Ultrasound is a painless and safe procedure with no known risks.
How are Ultrasound results reported?
Ultrasound results are reported by a doctor trained to interpret imaging studies, typically a radiologist. They analyze the images and create a report that is sent to your doctor, who will then share the results with you. You should be able to return to normal activities immediately after an ultrasound.
Understanding the report
Ultrasound results are interpreted by a doctor trained to interpret imaging studies, typically a radiologist. After the exam, the radiologist analyzes the images generated by the ultrasound and prepares a report, which is sent to the child's doctor. The doctor then shares the results with the parents or guardians, who can discuss any necessary follow-up steps or treatments based on the findings.
In general, ultrasound images provide valuable information for diagnosing and directing treatment for a variety of diseases and conditions, such as:
- Viewing the uterus and ovaries during pregnancy
- Diagnosing gallbladder disease
- Evaluating blood flow
- Examining a breast lump
- Checking the thyroid gland
- Finding genital and prostate problems
- Assessing joint inflammation (synovitis) and metabolic bone disease.
Remember that it's essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss the results and any necessary next steps.
Limitations and Considerations
Ultrasound has some limitations, including:
- Sound waves don't travel well through air or bone, so ultrasound isn't effective at imaging body parts that have gas in them or are hidden by bone, such as the lungs or head.
- Ultrasound may also be unable to see objects that are located very deep in the human body. To view these areas, your health care provider may order other imaging tests, such as CT or MRI scans or X-rays.