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What is Ultrasound used for?
Obstetrics
In obstetrics, ultrasound is used to examine the
developing baby or fetus. Your physician may
utilize this examination to confirm the age of
the baby and predict the date of delivery.
Performed at the discretion of your physician,
ultrasound provides valuable information about
the health and well being of the fetus. In most
cases, obstetrical patients receive a photograph
of the fetus to take home.
Gynecology
Ultrasound plays a prominent role in gynecology.
It is used to examine the pelvic organs and to
evaluate pelvic masses. Ultrasound can detect
abnormalities of the ovaries and uterus and is
very useful in the diagnosis of problems causing
pelvic pain. Ultrasound also can help to monitor
ovulation in treating infertility.
Other Uses Ultrasound is also used to evaluate
other organs such as the thyroid, liver,
pancreas, gallbladder, kidneys, breast and
scrotum. Ultrasound is used to image and assess
blood flow to the brain, and through the arms
and legs. It can also serve to determine the
presence of an abnormal blood vessel, such as an
aneurysm.
Your Ultrasound Experience
Your ultrasound will be performed in a
comfortable and private environment. During your
exam, you will rest on an examination table. A
gel will be applies to the area of your body to
be examined. This gel eliminates any air between
your skin and the ultrasound source. The
ultrasound source, called a transducer, is then
held to the area to be examined. The transducer
emits sound waves into your body and listens for
echoes reflected back from the internal organs.
These echoes are then converted into a picture,
which can be seen on a television-like screen.
For some pelvic and obstetrical exams, a full
bladder is required. To fill your bladder, you
must drink at least four to six glasses of water
one hour before the exam. You cannot empty your
bladder until the exam is complete. In some
instances, a vaginal transducer is utilized to
provide additional, detailed information about
pelvic structures. The entire exam usually takes
about 30 minutes.
A radiologist with expertise in ultrasound
imaging will perform and interpret your study
and issue a report to your physician.
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