What is an Ultrasound exam?
Diagnostic ultrasound is a non-invasive medical test which evaluates diseases of the organs and blood vessels (arteries and veins), as well as the status of an unborn fetus during pregnancy.
Ultrasound exams are usually painless and do not emit ionization radiation.
How does it work?
Extremely high frequencies of sound waves are passed through the organ being examined. The sound waves collide with the anatomy of the organ, which reflects sound back to the sound source or ultrasound transducer. The resulting pattern of that reflection is converted into diagnostic information and is displayed on the system monitor.
What can I expect?
An ultrasound exam generally takes 30 to 45 minutes. The length of the exam depends on the type of study ordered.
Most exams are performed with the patient lying flat on their back. However, certain ultrasound exams require rolling the patient onto their left or right side.
A water-soluble coupling gel is placed on the ultrasound transducer and on the area of the body being evaluated. The gel aids the ultrasound in penetrating the skin and allow for the smooth movement of transducer of the area being examined.
The transducer is then swept over the area being studied from a variety of angles. If you become uncomfortable or have any questions, you will be able to communicate to the technologist. When the exam is complete, the technologist will assist you off the table and gather your possessions.
Will I need an injection?
In most cases, ultrasound does not require any contrast agents. Therefore, no injections are needed.
How do I prepare?
Any ultrasound scan of your abdomen requires that you fast (nothing to eat or drink) for at least 8 hrs prior to the exam.
Any ultrasound scan of your pelvis requires that you drink 32 oz. of water 1 hour prior to the exam.
No preparation is required for cardiac or vascular ultrasound exams.
How do I get the results?
Your exam will be interpreted by a board certified radiologist or cardiologist. The results are then sent to your physician who will then discuss them with you.