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Understanding Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a safe, painless procedure that uses high-frequency
sound waves to examine structures and tissues inside the body.
The primary benefit of ultrasound is its ability to generate highly
detailed images without being invasive and without using radiation.
Because it is considered so safe and simple, ultrasound has become the
diagnostic tool of choice to examine unborn children as well as many
other specific exams. Midtown Imaging provides a wide variety of ultrasound
studies for patients including: obstetrical/gynecological, general diagnostic,
and vascular.
How does Ultrasound Work?
With ultrasound technology, images instantly appear on a video screen
as an instrument called a transducer is moved slowly over the patient’s
skin. The images are then recorded onto a videotape or film so our radiologists
may interpret them. Depending on the procedure, you may be asked to
hold your breath for a short time or assume different positions on the
table.
An ultrasound technique often utilized is called “Doppler Ultrasound”.
Doppler uses sound waves and specialized equipment to record the minute
changes that document blood flow within vessels.
Ultrasound has emerged as an invaluable technology. It is used to evaluate
major blood vessels, helping to locate potential plaque or clot blockage.
Ultrasound is also used to evaluate abdominal or pelvic pain caused
by gallstones, liver disorders, or appendicitis. There are many reasons
for examining the abdomen with ultrasound. Some of the more common reasons
include:
- To look for causes of upper abdominal pain
- To detect gallstones or other gallbladder abnormalities
- To determine abnormalities of the liver, pancreas or spleen
- To evaluate the kidneys for blockage
- To look for enlargements (aneurysms) and other abnormalities of
abdominal blood vessels
Further, Ultrasound provides a useful way to evaluate breast tissue
as a follow-up to mammography. At Midtown, we frequently perform breast
ultrasound exams as a way to further define possible irregularities
found during mammograms. These follow-up exams are often performed on
the same day as the initial mammogram to help ease a woman's anxiety
and to provide another non-invasive tool for diagnosis.
Preparation
In order for an ultrasound examination to be successful, the
patient should not consume food or water after midnight the night before
the exam. This is because most food and drink cause the gallbladder
to contract, preventing a thorough examination.
The length of time for your examination will vary depending on the
specific exam your physician has ordered. Where some exams may take
as little as 15 minutes (for example, a gallbladder examination for
stones), some exams may take longer. Regardless of the exam, please
allow for some extra time to be spent at our facility during your visit.
You will find our facilities both welcoming and comfortable and experience
a staff that goes out of their way to ease the process.
Results of Your Test
A Midtown Board Certified Radiologist specializing in Ultrasound interpretation
will report the results of this test by telephone, fax, or mail to the
referring physician promptly.
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