Ultrasound imaging, also known as sonography, utilizes high frequency sound rather than x-rays to produce images. A hand-held device called a transducer is placed on the skin and sends out sound waves. As the sound waves echo off internal tissues, a sensitive microphone in the transducer records tiny changes in the sound’s pitch and direction. These signature waves are measured and displayed on a computer that creates a real-time picture on the monitor. Ultrasound can also be used to show movement because the images are created in real-time.
How to prepare for your ultrasound
Before your ultrasound
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your ultrasound exam. You will need to remove all clothing and jewelry in the area to be examined. You may be asked to wear a gown during the procedure.
Other preparation depends on the type of examination you will have. For some scans, your doctor may instruct you not to eat or drink for as many as eight hours before your appointment. For others, you may be asked to drink up to 32 oz. of clear liquid one hour prior to your exam and avoid urinating so that your bladder is full when the scan begins.
During your ultrasound
Depending on the type of ultrasound you are having, you will probably be positioned lying face-up on an exam table that can be tilted or moved. A clear gel is applied to the area of the body being studied to help the transducer make secure contact with the body. The ultrasound tech or radiologist then presses the transducer firmly against the skin and sweeps it back and forth over the area of interest. Most ultrasound examinations are completed within 30 minutes to an hour.
After your ultrasound
There are no known side effects or after effects from ultrasound imaging, and it is not necessary to follow special precautions after your exam.
After your ultrasound images have been reviewed by our interpreting doctor, your personal physician will receive a report of the findings. Your physician will then advise you of the results and discuss what further actions, if any, are needed.