Ultrasound

Ultrasound is noninvasive and very safe. It uses sound waves. As the waves bounce off internal structures of your body, they create pictures or videos. These images allow doctors to visualize your organs and other soft tissues.

We use ultrasound for many things, including to:

• Detect internal injuries
• Examine internal organs and glands, such as your thyroid gland
• Guide biopsies
• Help diagnose breast lumps
• Monitor blood flow
• Track the growth of your unborn baby

Your doctor will inform you if there are any steps you should take before your ultrasound. Generally, little or no special preparation is needed.

What happens during an ultrasound exam depends on the area of your body being studied. During an abdominal ultrasound or pregnancy ultrasound, for example, the person performing your exam applies a special gel to your belly while you lie on a table. They then move a small instrument called a transducer across the area to get your images. The transducer emits the sound waves. During parts of the test, you may be asked to hold your breath. A breast ultrasound is performed in a similar way.

Some ultrasounds are performed through natural body openings. For example, sometimes doctors will place the instrument into your mouth and down your throat. Pelvic ultrasound may involve transvaginal ultrasound. In this procedure, we gently introduce the transducer into a woman’s vagina. This allows us to better see the uterus, ovaries and pelvic area.

One of our radiologists will interpret your scan and send a report to your doctor, who will get the results to you. They may available through our patient portal. Overall, this process may take several days.