Why is this procedure done?
An ultrasound is done to see the organs and structures in your body. An ultrasound uses sound waves to make images or pictures. These images are shown on a screen while you are being tested. If needed, the images can be printed for you or your doctor to see. Doctors may order this test when you have signs like pain, swelling, or infection. It may help the doctor decide what is wrong. Ultrasound is also used to guide procedures like biopsies of the organs. It shows the size of organs and if there is any injury or disease. Ultrasound may be used to check on the health of an unborn baby. ‚
What will the results be?
A special doctor will look at the ultrasound. The results will help your doctor understand if there is a problem. Together you can make a plan for further care. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor may give you special instructions to get ready for this test. It depends on what kind of ultrasound you are having. Sometimes, you cant eat for 8 hours before the test. Other times you may have to eat a special meal before you come for the test. Other tests need you to drink a few glasses of water and not go to the bathroom until after the test. Ask your doctor what to do before the ultrasound. ‚
What happens during the procedure?
- You will be asked to lie down on a bed. The technician will place a small amount of gel on the body part that will be scanned. It will help transmit sound waves inside your body.
- The technician will use a probe and will move it around the area slowly. Sometimes they will stop over certain areas to get a good picture. The probe puts out sound waves. The sound waves bounce off of your organs. A computer picks up the sound waves. It changes them into pictures.
- You can see the pictures in a monitor beside the bed. The probe may move over your skin and change positions. In some special cases, the probe will be put inside your body. Your doctor will tell you if this needed. This will help get clearer and more complete images.
- The technician may take still pictures or a videotape of moving images. Sometimes, the technician may press the probe more firmly to get a clearer view of an area. You may feel some discomfort. The technician may ask you to change positions or hold your breath for a few seconds.
- The procedure takes from 30 to 60 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
The technician will wipe off the gel. Your doctor will look at the printed images or videotape. You can go home right after your procedure. Talk to your doctor about when the results will be available. ‚
What care is needed at home?
You may go back to your normal activities when you go home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits.
- The results will help your doctor understand any problems you are having. You may need other tests or procedures.
What problems could happen?
Ultrasound tests do not cause any problems to your health. ‚
Where can I learn more?
American College of Radiology ‚
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=genus ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚