Ultrasound imaging or sonography uses high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body and does not use radiation. An ultrasound captures real-time images, showing the structure and movement of the body's internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels.

Ultrasound imaging is a safe and generally painless procedure that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

Another form of ultrasound called Doppler uses a special technique that evaluates blood as it flows through a blood vessel, including the body's major arteries and veins in the abdomen, arms, legs and neck.

Procedure

For most ultrasound exams, you will be positioned lying face-up while a clear gel is applied to the body part being studied. The gel is used to secure contact with the body and eliminate air pockets between the transducer and the skin. An Inland Imaging ultrasound technologist then presses the transducer firmly against your skin, moving it back and forth over the specific area. Generally the exam is completed within 30 minutes to an hour.

In some cases, you may be asked to dress and wait while the ultrasound images are reviewed.

Additional Exams

In some ultrasound studies, the transducer is attached to a probe and inserted into the body. These exams include:

• Transrectal Ultrasound - The transducer is inserted into a man's rectum to view the prostate.
• Transvaginal Ultrasound - The transducer is inserted into a woman's vagina to view the uterus and ovaries.

Ultrasound examinations can help to diagnose a variety of conditions and assess organ damage following illness. It can be used to assist in evaluating symptoms such as pain, swelling, and infection. In addition, ultrasound is useful in examining many of the body's internal organs, such as the gastrointestinal organs, kidneys, and reproductive organs.

Ultrasound is also used during image guidance procedures and in diagnosing a variety of vascular conditions.

Doppler ultrasounds are generally ordered to evaluate blockages to blood flow, narrowing of vessels, and tumors or congenital malformations.

Ultrasound Locations