Ultrasound

Ultrasound scanning or sonography, uses highfrequency sound waves rather than radiation to visualize regions within the body in real time. It is non-invasive and usually painless. The patient lies on an examination table and the ultrasound tech applies a clear gel to the area being scanned to ensure the transducer is making good contact with the skin. The tech then presses the transducer firmly against the skin and moves it back and forth to capture images of the area being examined.

Ultrasound can show the movement of internal organs, blood flow and heart valve function, and can be used to guide doctors performing biopsy procedures and amniocentesis.

Ultrasound is commonly used to monitor pregnancy.  It is a safe, radiation-free way to check the condition of the fetus as well as gain information about its size and position. Done as early as the fifth week of pregnancy, the sonogram produces pictures of the fetus, placenta, and amniotic fluid that can be seen on a television screen. After the 18th week of gestation, it is possible to use sonography to determine the gender of the fetus.

Ultrasound uses include viewing:

• The fetus and uterus
• Eyes
• Pelvic and abdominal organs
• Heart and blood vessels
• Thyroid gland and scrotum
• Blood clots
• Plaque causing narrowing of vessels
• Tumors and congenital malformations

Ultrasound procedures include:

• Examination of the carotid, mesenteric and renal arteries and aorta using Doppler technology
• Fetal growth measurements
• Guiding for tissue biopsies of the thyroid, breast, liver, and abdomen
• Varicose vein mapping