What is an Ultrasound:
Diagnostic ultrasound, also called sonography or diagnostic medical sonography, is an imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of structures within your body. The images can provide valuable information for diagnosing and treating a variety of diseases and conditions.
How Do I Prepare for an Ultrasound Exam?
Most ultrasound exams require no preparation. However, there are a few exceptions and for some scans, such as a gallbladder ultrasound, your doctor may ask that you not eat or drink for certain period of time before the exam.
What Should I Expect During an Ultrasound Exam?
Gel is applied to your skin over the area being examined. It helps prevent air pockets, which can block the sound waves that create the images. This water-based gel is easy to remove from skin and, if needed, clothing. A trained technician (sonographer) presses a small, hand-held device (transducer) against the area being studied and moves it as needed to capture the images. The transducer sends sound waves into your body, collects the ones that bounce back and sends them to a computer, which creates the images.
What Happens After the Ultrasound Exam?
After the Ultrasound Exam is complete you are free to leave and resume your normal activities.
