What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound imaging, also called sonography, is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of soft tissues and organs inside your body. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, ultrasound uses no ionizing radiation, making it an ideal imaging choice for many patients, including pregnant women.
How Does Ultrasound Work?
During an ultrasound exam, a small device called a transducer is placed on your skin and moved over the area being examined. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce off internal structures and return as echoes. These echoes are processed by a computer to create moving images displayed on a monitor, allowing physicians to see organs and structures as they function in real-time.
What to Expect
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Duration: Most ultrasound examinations take 30-45 minutes
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Positioning: You’ll typically lie face-up on a comfortable examination table
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Gel Application: A warm, water-based gel is applied to your skin to help the sound waves travel effectively
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Transducer Movement: The transducer will press firmly against your body and move over the area of interest
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Comfort: Most exams are painless. If scanning over a tender area, you may feel minor pressure or discomfort
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Real-Time Viewing: You may be able to see the images on the monitor during your exam
Preparation
Preparation for a breast ultrasound is generally simple and requires minimal steps.
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Special Preparation: In most cases, no fasting or dietary restrictions are required before a breast ultrasound.
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Skin Products: It is recommended that patients avoid applying lotions, powders, deodorants, or perfumes on the chest or underarm area on the day of the exam, as these products can interfere with imaging.
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Skin Products: It is recommended that patients avoid applying lotions, powders, deodorants, or perfumes on the chest or underarm area on the day of the exam, as these products can interfere with imaging.
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Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may be asked to change into a gown so the technologist can easily access the breast area during the exam.
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Additional Notes: If you have previous breast imaging results or reports, bringing them to your appointment may be helpful for comparison.
Benefits of Ultrasound
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No Radiation: Completely safe with no radiation exposure
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Real-Time Imaging: Shows organs and blood flow as they function
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Non-Invasive: No needles, injections, or incisions required
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Painless: Generally comfortable with minimal to no discomfort
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Widely Available: Effective for examining many parts of the body
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Safe for Pregnancy: The preferred method for prenatal imaging
Common Ultrasound Examinations
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Breast: Evaluation of breast masses or abnormalities
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Thyroid: Assessment of thyroid nodules or enlargement
Advanced Ultrasound Techniques
Our facility utilizes the latest ultrasound technology, including:
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Doppler Ultrasound: Evaluates blood flow through vessels
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High-Resolution Transducers: Provides exceptional image detail
After Your Exam
There are no restrictions following an ultrasound examination. You can immediately return to your normal activities. The gel is easily wiped off your skin and will not stain clothing.