What Is an Ultrasound?

While scanning the belly of a pregnant person may be your initial association with ultrasound, this time-tested diagnostic imaging method is popular for evaluating and diagnosing a wide range of conditions.

Ultrasound is a non-invasive way to assess what is going on inside the body without the need for dyes, radiation, or surgery. The technique comprises a scanner–known as a transducer–and gel that is applied to the skin over the area that is being examined. The gel is water-based and non-toxic, and often warmed for patient comfort. It eliminates air pockets which can otherwise interfere with the test and produce inaccurate results.

The ultrasound test uses sound waves reflected off of internal organs which are then captured and interpreted into images on a video display terminal. These images are recorded and can then be printed on paper. The ultrasonographer who performs the ultrasound is able to see results in real time. Ultrasonographers undergo specific training and certification and hold certain credentials in order to perform the test. Typically, ultrasounds are done on the outside of the body. But for some conditions, they are done internally. Your doctor can give you full details of what your procedure will entail. In general, a standard ultrasound exam lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

Ultrasounds can be used for an array of conditions, and do not present worrying side effects, even when used in sensitive or delicate areas of the body. An ultrasound can often give a doctor the information they need to diagnose a condition and recommend a treatment, all without painful, complicated, or invasive techniques like exploratory surgery. For these reasons, ultrasound is often used and is appreciated by patients and doctors alike.

How Do you Prepare for an Ultrasound Scan

Depending on the area of the body being scanned and the condition a patient has, they may need to prepare in various ways prior to the ultrasound. This could mean fasting, drinking large amounts of water, and more. It is recommended for all ultrasound patients to wear loose, comfortable clothing and to refrain from wearing jewelry. Feel free to contact Advantage Diagnostics prior to your procedure if you have any questions about necessary preparations.

Once the ultrasound is done, one of our board certified radiologists will interpret the results and send their interpretation to the patient’s physician. 

Ultrasound Services in Cleveland and Beachwood, Ohio

If you are a patient in the Cleveland or Beachwood, Ohio area and your doctor has prescribed an ultrasound as part of your healthcare and condition assessment, Advantage Diagnostics is here to help. We are proud to offer professional ultrasound services along with a team of expert radiologists who can quickly and accurately interpret your test results. Contact us today to request or submit a patient referral form, and to learn more about our suite of diagnostic imaging services.