Ultrasonography

Ultrasound imaging, also called sonography, is a non-invasive procedure which uses sound waves to create real-time images of the human body. No x-rays are involved. Ultrasound is frequently used to:

  • Evaluate internal organs for tumors, cysts, abscesses, inflammation and obstruction.
  • Locate stones in the gallbladder, bile ducts, or kidneys.
  • Detect abnormalities of the heart valves.
  • Detect aneurysms and impaired blood flow from blood clots or arteriosclerosis.
  • Detect early pregnancy and study developing babies.

Ultrasound works like sonar by bouncing sound waves off an object. A computer interprets the reflected sound waves and forms an image. Ultrasound waves are strongly reflected by bone, air and gas; therefore ultrasound is not an ideal imaging technique for the bowel, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. Patients who are obese are more difficult to image because tissue weakens the sound waves as they pass deeper into the body. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging may be more appropriate in some circumstances.

Ultrasound services provided by Premier Radiology

Obstetric Ultrasound
Ultrasound - Abdomen
Ultrasound - Abdomen (Pediatric)
Ultrasound - Breast
Ultrasound - Carotid
Ultrasound - General
Ultrasound - Musculoskeletal
Ultrasound - Pelvis
Ultrasound - Scrotum
Ultrasound - Thyroid
Ultrasound - Vascular
Ultrasound - Venous (Extremities)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the ultrasound procedure like?

For most ultrasound examinations, you will lay face-up on an examination table that can be tilted or moved. You will be asked to remove clothing from the area to be scanned, and then a special warm gel is applied to your skin. The gel improves the transmission of sound waves between you and the ultrasound transducer as it passes over the skin. In some ultrasound examinations, the transducer is attached to a probe and inserted into a natural opening in the body. These exams include:

  • Transesophageal echocardiogram - The transducer is inserted into the esophagus to obtain images of the heart.
  • Transrectal ultrasound - The transducer is inserted into the rectum to view the prostate gland.
  • Transvaginal ultrasound - The transducer is inserted into the vagina to view the uterus, ovaries, and developing baby.

Ultrasonic waves are inaudible and cause no sensation, though pressure from the transducer might be uncomfortable. During the procedure, you will probably be able to watch the ultrasound images on the screen attached to the scanner.

When a scan is performed in conjunction with a biopsy, a local anesthetic reduces or eliminates any discomfort.

Most ultrasound examinations are completed within 30 minutes.

How should I prepare for the examination?

  • Bring a copy of the order for the procedure from your referring physician.
  • Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing.
  • Take your usual medications.
  • No special preparation is needed for most ultrasound examinations. Requirements for specific examinations are listed below:
    • Female pelvis and fetus: should drink four to six glasses of water one to two hours before the examination. Do not to pass urine for 2 hours before the test.
    • Aorta: Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam.
    • Gallbladder - Nothing to eat or drink 6-8 hours prior to the examination.
    • Liver/Pancreas/Spleen - Nothing to eat or drink 6-8 hours prior to the examination.
    • Kidneys - Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to the examination. 1 hour prior to the examination please drink 24 ounces of water. Do not use the restroom until after the study.
    • Breast - Please bring prior mammograms and ultrasounds.

What should I do after the ultrasound examination?

When your examination is over, you may resume your normal daily activities unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

One of our board-certified radiologists will review the ultrasound images and send a report to your physician. You can discuss the results of your ultrasound with your physician.


 

28 White Bridge Road
Suite 111
Nashville, Tennessee
37205

Phone (615) 356-3999
Fax (615) 353-0462