Ultrasound (Sonography) For Body's Internal Structure & Pregnancy

Ultrasound, also known as sonography, is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the body's internal structures, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of various medical conditions.

What is Ultrasound Sonography

Ultrasound, also known as sonography, is a medical imaging technique.

• It uses sound waves to create real-time images inside the body.
• It's safe, non-invasive, and doesn't involve radiation.
• Commonly used during pregnancy to monitor fetal development.
• Also used to examine various organs and tissues.
• Helps diagnose conditions and guide medical procedures.
• Provides valuable insights for doctors in a painless way.

Ultrasound Sonography

Here are the basic details for the Ultrasound Sonography.

*Price range may vary as per location, facility, type, and procedure.

What are the Purpose or Reasons for Ultrasound Sonography?

Here are common reasons for Ultrasound Sonography.

• Visualize fetal development during pregnancy
• Detect and monitor abdominal organ conditions
• Evaluate blood flow and vascular issues
• Assess musculoskeletal injuries or conditions
• Detect and monitor breast abnormalities
• Guide minimally invasive procedures
• Diagnose and monitor gynecological issues
• Examine the heart and detect cardiac problems
• Evaluate thyroid and other glandular issues
• Detect and assess testicular and scrotal conditions

Types of Ultrasound

Here are the types of ultrasound procedures along with their primary use.

Preparing for Your Ultrasound Sonography: Tips and Information

Here is the basic preparation before, during, and after Ultrasound (Sonography) for any patient.

Before the Ultrasound (Sonography):

• Consultation: Schedule the ultrasound and discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider.
• Fasting: Typically, fasting is not required, but follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.
• Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, especially if they contain contrast agents.
• Allergies: If you have known allergies to contrast agents or other substances used in the ultrasound, inform your healthcare provider.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing. You might be asked to change into a hospital gown, so dress accordingly.
• Metal Objects: Remove metal objects, jewellery, and accessories as they can interfere with the ultrasound images.

During the Ultrasound (Sonography):

• Positioning: You'll be asked to lie down on the examination table, and the technician will position you correctly, often applying gel to the area being examined.
• Communication: You can communicate with the technician during the procedure if you have any concerns or discomfort.
• Remain Still: It's essential to remain as still as possible to obtain clear ultrasound images.

After the Ultrasound (Sonography):

• Recovery: Typically, there is no special recovery needed, and you can resume normal activities immediately.
• Results: Your ultrasound results will be reviewed by a healthcare provider, and a report will be sent to you or your referring doctor.
• Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss the ultrasound results and any necessary next steps or treatments.
• Medications: If you temporarily stopped any medications, resume them as directed by your healthcare provider.

Remember that specific instructions may vary depending on your individual case and the protocols of the healthcare facility. Always follow the guidance provided by your healthcare team for a successful and safe ultrasound examination.

Who Performs an Ultrasound Sonography?

Ultrasound Sonography Procedure

The procedure for Ultrasound Sonography typically follows these steps:

• Check-in and registration at the clinic/hospital.
• You'll be asked to change into a gown provided by the facility.
• You'll lie down on an examination table.
• The sonographer applies a clear gel to the area being examined.
• The sonographer moves a handheld device called a transducer over the gel.
• Sound waves are sent into your body and create images on a screen.
• The sonographer captures images from different angles.
• The procedure is typically painless and takes about 20-30 minutes.
• After the exam, you can wipe off the gel.
• The images are reviewed by a radiologist for analysis.
• You may receive the results during your visit or at a later time.

Ultrasound Sonography Results

Here are some common elements you might find in an Ultrasound Sonography report:

Please note that the format and content of ultrasound reports may vary between healthcare facilities and specific clinical scenarios, and they should always be interpreted by a qualified medical professional.

Ultrasound Sonography Abnormal Results

Here are potential causes of abnormal results in ultrasound sonography:

Keep in mind that ultrasound results should always be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional who can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate follow-up steps. Abnormal findings in ultrasound may require further testing or evaluation to determine the underlying cause.

How Long Does an Ultrasound Sonography Take?

The duration of an ultrasound sonography procedure can vary depending on the specific type of examination and the area of the body being imaged. Here's a general overview of the approximate time it takes for different types of ultrasound sonography procedures:

• Please note that these are approximate times and can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the examination, the need for additional images or measurements, and the patient's specific condition.
• Additionally, some specialized ultrasound procedures, such as fetal echocardiography, may require more time for a detailed assessment.
• Always follow the guidance provided by your healthcare provider for your specific ultrasound sonography procedure.

Ultrasound Sonography Report

Ultrasound Sonography Report Sample PDF

Ultrasound Sonography Limitation

Here are some limitations associated with Ultrasound Sonography.

• Limited depth penetration
• Operator-dependent
• Cannot image bone or air-filled structures
• Limited evaluation of certain organs (e.g., lungs)
• May have difficulty with obese patients

Ultrasound Sonography Risk Factors

Here are some risk factors associated with Ultrasound Sonography.

• Generally considered low-risk
• No ionizing radiation used
• No known harmful effects on humans
• Safe for pregnant women and developing fetuses
• Rare allergic reactions to ultrasound gel
• Minimal discomfort during the procedure
• Operator-dependent, so quality may vary

Exploring the Safety of Ultrasound Sonography: Myth vs Reality

Ultrasound Sonography Price

Here are the estimated Ultrasound Sonography Price in India with different top cities:

*Prices are approximate and range may vary as per location, facility, type, and procedure.

Summary

Overall, Ultrasound Sonography is a safe and versatile medical imaging technique that uses sound waves, not radiation, to provide valuable insights into the human body. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• Ultrasound - Wikipedia [1].
• Application of Ultrasound in Medicine PMC - NIH [2].