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Ultrasound
Ultrasound
An ultrasound examination is a test that uses high-frequency sound waves similar to sonar to produce images of the body. (Ultrasound does not use x-rays.) Sound waves are sent through the body with a transducer that records the returning sound waves as they bounce off the internal structures. These returning echoes are recorded and displayed on a monitor, then recorded on film. The transducer is placed directly on the patient, and a gel is used to ensure that the sound waves will easily pass through the skin. After the examination, the gel is easily wiped off.
Ultrasound examinations are performed for a variety of reasons. Your doctor may want to look at the blood flow through the arteries and veins in the neck (commonly referred to as a Carotid Ultrasound,) to detect blockages in the blood vessels. Ultrasound may also be used during pregnancy to measure fetal growth, the size of the fetus, gender, movement, and to detect any abnormalities that may be present. Ultrasound may be used to study the heart and the valves within the heart, and is also used to image internal organs such as kidneys, liver, and gallbladder.