Ultrasound Exams (Sonograms)

Ultrasound imaging is used to study many of the organs with high-frequency sound waves instead of radiation. A noninvasive imaging method, ultrasound is both safe and painless and enables a physician to see images and movement within your body.

What Is an Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is an examination that uses high-frequency sound waves known as ultrasound to produce live and still video images of certain body parts. A transducer is moved across the surface of the skin while sound waves are sent to the area of the body to be scanned. The echoes produced by these sound waves can be used to determine many things inside the human body, including how large an organ is, how blood flow is functioning and how far away an object is. Although many individuals are familiar with ultrasounds that allow them to see the “first” photo of their unborn child, physicians also use the procedure to examine many of the body’s internal organs, including the heart, pancreas, bladder and kidneys.

During the Exam

When you come in for your ultrasound, you will be asked to change into a gown and lie upon an examination table. Ultrasound gel will be applied to the skin prior to the actual scanning.

After the Exam

When your exam is over, you may be asked to wait while your images are viewed by a radiologist. The radiologist will interpret your exam and issue a report to your doctor, who will share the results with you.