Ultrasound
Ultrasound is an excellent non-invasive method for examining organs such as the gallbladder, kidneys, spleen, liver and pancreas. It may also be used to evaluate major blood vessels such as the aorta or the blood vessels to an organ. Ultrasound is utilized extensively in abdominal and pelvic imaging including obstetrics/gynecology. Venous, carotid and extremity vascular studies are also routinely performed by our registered diagnostic medical sonographers with advanced vascular certification.
An abdominal ultrasound is performed to:
- Determine the cause of abdominal pain
- Detect gallstones in your gallbladder
- Determine cause of blocked urine flow in a kidney or to look for kidney stones
- Evaluate the liver
- Detect problems with the pancreas such as inflammation or cancer
A pelvic ultrasound is performed to:
- Examine the pelvic organs
- Diagnose problems such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, fibroids, etc
- Identify a pelvic mass
- Diagnose cancer
- Confirm a normal pregnancy
- Evaluate abnormalities of the placenta, uterus or other pelvic structures
What to expect during your ultrasound
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- You may be asked to change into a gown.
- A gel will be applied to the area for the ultrasound.
- A hand-held device called a transducer will be used by the technologist over the area to take images for the exam.