Ultrasound Specialist

How does an ultrasound work?

Ultrasound works by sending sound waves into an area of the body to detect particular types of abnormalities. The sound waves bounce off of the surfaces they come in contact with and are sent back in the direction from which they came. They're then detected by a receiver that records a topographical image of the surface.

Three-dimensional images show the height, width, and depth of an object, while a four-dimensional image shows the object in motion. Ultrasound offers your provider a detailed picture of the structure and how it's functioning at the time.

Does an ultrasound require special preparation?

Patients don't have to take any extraordinary preparatory steps before their ultrasound. At a minimum, you should come in wearing loose-fitting, comfortable clothes. Your provider may also ask you to remove any jewelry before beginning the ultrasound.

When are ultrasounds used?

Ultrasounds serve many purposes. They can allow doctors to identify cysts, tumors, and other abnormalities. Your provider can also use an ultrasound to monitor the development of a fetus, as well as determining the baby's gender.

Many times, your provider orders an ultrasound if you're experiencing symptoms that have no apparent cause. An ultrasound can provide them with valuable information that otherwise would have only been uncovered through an exploratory procedure. Your provider can make an accurate diagnosis and offer effective treatment options thanks to these detailed images.

What can an ultrasound show?

Because ultrasounds go deep within the tissues, they can identify potential abnormalities on the surface of organs, as well as inside the organ. They can show the density, size, and shape of a cyst while providing an accurate image of the surface.

Four-dimensional images help determine how well a body part or developing child is functioning. The ultrasound can identify various types of movements, from blood flowing through a valve to a fetus moving its fingers and toes.