• What is an ultrasound?
• For what purposes are ultrasounds performed?
• How do patients prepare for an ultrasound?
• How are results transmitted to the patient and doctor?

What is an ultrasound?

An ultrasound test is a radiology technique, which uses high- frequency sound waves to produce images of the organs and structures of the body. The sound waves are sent through body tissues with a device called a transducer. The transducer is placed directly on top of the skin, which has a gel applied to the surface. The sound waves that are sent by the transducer through the body are then reflected by internal structures as "echoes." These echoes return to the transducer and are transmitted electrically onto a viewing monitor. The echo images are then recorded on a plane film and can also be recorded on videotape. After the ultrasound, the gel is easily wiped off.

The technical term for ultrasound testing and recording is "sonography." Ultrasound testing is painless and harmless. Ultrasound tests involve no radiation and studies have not revealed any adverse effects.

For what purposes are ultrasounds performed?

Ultrasound examinations can be used in various areas of the body for a variety of purposes. These purposes include examination of the chest, abdomen, blood vessels (such as to detect blood clots in leg veins) and the evaluation of pregnancy. In the chest, ultrasound can be used to obtain detailed images of the size and function of the heart. Ultrasound can detect abnormalities of the heart valves, such as mitral valve prolapse, aortic stenosis, and infection (endocarditis). Ultrasound is commonly used to guide fluid withdrawal (aspiration) from the chest, lungs, or around the heart. Ultrasound is also commonly used to examine internal structures of the abdomen. Gallstones in the gallbladder are easily detected, as are kidney stones. The size and structure of the kidneys, the ureters, liver, spleen, pancreas, and aorta within the abdomen can be examined. Ultrasound can detect fluid, cysts, tumors or abscess in the abdomen or liver. Impaired blood flow from clots or arteriosclerosis in the legs can be detected by ultrasound. Aneurysms of the aorta can also be seen. Ultrasound is also commonly used to evaluate the structure of the thyroid gland in the neck.

During pregnancy, an ultrasound can be used to evaluate the size, gender, movement, and position of the growing baby. The baby's heart is usually visible early, and as the baby ages, body motion becomes more apparent. The baby can often be visualized by the mother during the ultrasound, and the gender of the baby is sometimes detectable.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Learn more about rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes chronic joint inflammation, which has symptoms that include stiffness, fever, muscle and joint aches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis incorporates the use of first-line drugs (aspirin and corticosteroids for pain and inflammation) and second-line drugs (methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine to prevent joint destruction and promote remission). Source:MedicineNet Appendicitis - Appendicitis information including, complications, symptoms, and how inflammation of the appendix is diagnosed and treated Source:MedicineNet Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis) - Learn about diverticulitis (diverticular disease, diverticulosis) information includes symptoms, diagnosis surgery, diet, and treatment. Source:MedicineNet Read 74 more Ultrasound related articles ... Skin Test Spots Heart Risks in Healthy People Avandia May Slow Atherosclerosis After Bypass Surgery Obesity During Pregnancy Carries Bigger Price Tag Timing of HRT May Influence Heart Risks New Foam Treatment for Varicose Veins Embolization a Nonsurgical Way to Treat Fibroids MRI Urged for High Breast Cancer Risk Health Highlights: Oct. 8, 2007 Artery Plaque Boosts Hispanics' Odds for Stroke Folic Acid May Help Prevent Premature Birth