Ultrasound
Painless, Radiation-Free Soft Tissue Imaging
Ultrasound imaging is a non-invasive medical technique that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. These procedures do not use any radiation and are a painless imaging method used to examine the gallbladder, heart, breasts, fetus, kidneys, liver, thyroid, uterus, vasculature, and other soft tissue internal organs.
What to Expect
01
Check In
Arrive 15 minutes early for registration. Preparation depends on the type of exam — for example, an abdominal ultrasound requires no food or drink for eight hours prior, while a transabdominal pelvic ultrasound requires a full bladder.
02
The Scan
A sonographer applies warm, water-based gel to the area being examined and uses a handheld transducer to capture real-time images. Exams typically last 20 to 60 minutes.
03
Results & Follow-Up
A radiologist reads the images and provides a written diagnostic assessment for your referring physician within 24–48 hours.
How to Prepare
Preparation depends on your exam type. For an abdominal ultrasound, avoid food and beverages for eight hours beforehand (medications may be taken with small sips of water). A transvaginal pelvic ultrasound requires no special preparation. For a transabdominal pelvic ultrasound, drink 32–36 ounces of water about an hour before your appointment and keep your bladder full during the exam.
Conditions Detected
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images without radiation, commonly used to examine the gallbladder, heart, breasts, kidneys, liver, thyroid, and blood vessels. It has some limitations: air and gas can disrupt sound waves (making it less effective for bowel or stomach evaluation), it’s less effective in larger patients due to tissue density, and it isn’t ideal for evaluating bone abnormalities.
FAQ
Do I need any preparation for an ultrasound?
It depends on the exam. Abdominal ultrasounds require fasting for eight hours beforehand, transabdominal pelvic ultrasounds require a full bladder, and transvaginal pelvic ultrasounds need no special preparation. We’ll confirm the right instructions when you schedule.
Is ultrasound safe?
Yes. Ultrasound is a non-invasive, painless procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves with no radiation involved.
Can ultrasound replace a mammogram?
No. Breast ultrasound is used to evaluate abnormalities found on a mammogram or clinical exam, but it is not a replacement for mammography.
What should I disclose before an ultrasound-guided biopsy?
Let your care team know about all medications and supplements you take, since some can increase bleeding risk. The procedure uses a local anesthetic, and you’ll remain awake with minimal discomfort throughout.