When it comes to diagnosing a wide range of health conditions, diagnostic ultrasound is an invaluable, non-invasive tool. Whether you're monitoring fertility, checking for blood clots, or evaluating organs such as the liver, kidneys, or thyroid, ultrasound medical imaging provides real-time, detailed insights without the need for radiation. At our ultrasound centers, we offer various types of ultrasound radiology services, including OB ultrasound, pelvic sonography, and ultrasound-guided breast biopsy, to help your healthcare provider accurately assess your health and make informed decisions.
Exam Explanation
Diagnostic ultrasound is a versatile imaging technique used for a variety of diagnostic purposes, from evaluating internal organs to monitoring the development of a fetus during pregnancy. By using high-frequency sound waves, ultrasound imaging allow us to visualize real-time movement of the body’s internal organs, blood flow, and more, without exposing patients to radiation like with x-ray scans. However, some diagnostic ultrasounds may involve placing a device inside your body.
Ultrasound medical imaging is used to diagnose conditions related to the gallbladder, liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder. It’s also commonly used to assess breast lumps, monitor fetuses during pregnancy, evaluate blood clot conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and for ultrasound-guided breast biopsies. In addition, pelvic ultrasounds are often used to evaluate the uterus, ovaries, and other reproductive organs in women.
Exam Preparation
Most ultrasound exams are quick, painless, and non-invasive. While preparation varies depending on the type of ultrasound, in general, you may need to drink fluids before the exam or avoid eating for several hours. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider or our office for specific preparation instructions. For example, pelvic ultrasound exams may require a full bladder, while OB/GYN ultrasound exams may have specific timeframes within your menstrual cycle for best results.
During the Exam
For most diagnostic ultrasound exams, you will be asked to lie on an exam table while a small amount of gel is applied to the area being examined. A probe is then used to transmit sound waves, which create the images that the technician or radiologist will analyze. The process typically takes 10-20 minutes, and most patients find it to be a comfortable procedure. Depending on the area being examined, other types of ultrasound exams may involve using a probe inserted into a natural body opening.
Whether you're undergoing a routine breast ultrasound (Breast US), monitoring fetal health during pregnancy with an OB ultrasound, or assessing organs like the kidneys or thyroid, our Ultrasound Center uses the latest in ultrasound radiology to deliver accurate, real-time results.