Diagnostic ultrasound, also called sonography or diagnostic medical sonography, is an imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of structures within your body. The images can provide valuable information for diagnosing and treating a variety of diseases and conditions.
Most ultrasound examinations are done using an ultrasound device outside your body, though some involve placing a device inside your body.
GETTING READY FOR ULTRASOUND
Most ultrasound exams require no preparation. However, there are a few exceptions:
- For some scans, such as a gallbladder ultrasound, your doctor may ask that you not eat or drink for up to six hours before the exam.
- Others, such as a pelvic ultrasound, may require a full bladder. You may need to drink up to six glasses of water two hours before the exam and not urinate until the exam is completed.
- Young children may need additional preparation. When scheduling an ultrasound for yourself or your child, ask your doctor if there are any specific instructions you'll need to follow.
Clothing and personal items
Wear loose clothing to your ultrasound appointment. You may be asked to remove jewelry during your ultrasound, so it's a good idea to leave any valuables at home
Before the procedure
Before your ultrasound begins, you may be asked to do the following:
- Remove any jewelry from the area being examined.
- Remove some or all your clothing.
- Change into a gown.
You'll be asked to lie on an examination table.
During the procedure
- Gel is applied to your skin over the area being examined. It helps prevent air pockets, which can block the sound waves that create the images. This water-based gel is easy to remove from skin and, if needed, clothing.
- A trained technician (sonographer) or radiologist presses a small, hand-held device (transducer) against the area being studied and moves it as needed to capture the images.
- Sometimes, ultrasounds are done inside your body. In this case, the transducer is attached to a probe that's inserted into a natural opening in your body.
Results
- When your exam is complete, a doctor trained to interpret imaging studies (radiologist) analyzes the images and sends a report to your doctor. Your doctor will share the results with you.
- You may need to wait for 2-3 hours upon arrival at Imaging department to complete the ultrasound and obtain your report.
GETTING HELP
You may contact Imaging Department at
Tel: +603-56391433 / 019-2000106 during office hours for assistance.