Ultrasound imaging – also called sonography or sonogram – is a painless and noninvasive method of obtaining diagnostic images from inside the human body using high frequency sound waves. Most ultrasound examinations are done using a sonar device outside of your body, though some ultrasound examinations involve placing a device inside your body.
Ultrasound is used to evaluate the following:
- Pregnancy (fetus).
- Pelvis (uterus and ovaries).
- Breast.
- Breast biopsy, cyst aspiration and hook wire guidance.
- Thyroid.
- Scrotum (testicles).
- Abdomen (gallbladder, liver, pancreas, kidneys and spleen).
- Carotid artery.
- Aorta.
- DVT (deep vein of the extremities).
- Prostate.
How should I prepare for an Ultrasound?
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- Depending on the type of ultrasound exam you have, you will be asked:
- Not to eat or drink for up to six (6) hours before your appointment, or
- Drink up to four (4) eight-ounce glasses of water 1 1/2 hours prior to your exam and avoid urinating. This will ensure a full bladder when the exam begins.
What should I expect during an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound exams usually take less than 30 minutes. A sonographer will position you on the exam table. A clear gel is applied in the area being examined. This helps the transducer make good contact with the skin. The sonographer firmly presses the transducer against the skin and moves it back and forth to image the area of interest. Most ultrasound exams are painless. The gel applied to your skin may be a bit cold and there may be varying degrees of discomfort and pressure as the technologist guides the transducer over your abdomen, especially if you are required to have a full bladder.
The sonographer can review the ultrasound images in real time and electronically stores the images considered to be the most diagnostically useful. When the examination is complete the gel is wiped off.
All our sonographers have extensive training and experience and are certified by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS). All ARDMS sonographers are required to pursue continuing medical education to stay on the cutting edge of ultrasound technology and patient care.
Who interprets the results and how do I get them?
After your ultrasound exam is completed, it will read by our Board-Certified radiologist. We will then send the report to the physician who has ordered your test. We advise you to schedule a follow-up with your physician to discuss the result of your scan. Our technologist will not be able to discuss your result with you.
How do I schedule an ultrasound?
If you are being referred by your primary doctor for an ultrasound, you will need to first get an order from them before you can schedule your scan. You will need to bring it with you for your exam. You need to call the office for an appointment.
If you are a patient of the Center for Women’s Health and Aesthetics and our doctor orders your ultrasound, we will get the order from her and schedule your scan onsite.
