An ultrasound, or Diagnostic Medical Sonography, is a type of imaging that uses high frequency sound waves to create a picture of the internal organs. It is frequently used to examine the fetus during pregnancy, for other gynecological purposes, and to examine organs like the heart, kidneys and liver. The method is typically noninvasive, and produces no radiation.
There are several different types of ultrasound. A 2D ultrasound is regular black and white sonogram. It’s generated using a single angle, and produces an outline of a section of interior structure. It’s known as 2D because the image it creates features length and width, but not depth. The main drawback of a 2D sonogram is that the non-trained viewers find it difficult to understand the imagery.
Finally, an ultrasound image that is colorized is referred to as a Doppler ultrasound.
During an ultrasound, the patient lies on a table and a special gel will be applied to the area that will be imaged by the technician. A transducer is slowly moved across the area and the patient must remain still. An ultrasound generally does not last beyond half an hour. There are no after-effects and you may resume your daily activities following an ultrasound.
PREPARING FOR YOUR PROCEDURE
- The following tests need no preparations: thyroid, vascular, testes. However, for obstetrical, pelvic and renal examinations, the patient is required to have an empty bladder.
- Ninety minutes before the exam, drink 48 ounces of water over a 60-minute period. Do not empty your bladder until the exam is complete. For abdominal examinations such as for gallbladder, liver and pancreas, do not eat or drink after midnight.
- Medications may be taken with a small amount of water.
- No smoking the morning of the exam.