Ultrasound

What It Is: A method of obtaining images of internal organs and vessels using high frequency sound waves

Why Your Doctor May Request It

    ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND:
  • To evaluate abdominal organs—especially the liver, gall bladder and kidneys
  • To assess diseases of the veins and arteries

    PELVIC ULTRASOUND:
  • To monitor the development of a fetus in utero
  • To assess abnormalities of the uterus and ovaries

    SALINE SONOHYSTEROGRAM:
  • To evaluate for endometrial disease
  • To evaluate for fibroids close to the endometrium

Preparing for an Exam

    ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND:
  • The patient fasts for up to six hours before the exam.

    PELVIC ULTRASOUND:
  • The study is performed with a full bladder (the patient drinks 40 ounces of fluid one to 1.5 hours before the exam).

    SALINE SONOHYSTEROGRAM:
  • The patient empties her bladder before the exam.

What to Expect

    ABDOMINAL OR PELVIC ULTRASOUND:
  • The patient wears a gown and lies on padded table.
  • The technologist applies a small amount of gel to the area of the body to be scanned. Then the technologist moves a device called a transducer across the area while applying mild pressure.
  • Images can be viewed on a monitor and recorded on either paper or film.
  • Pelvic ultrasound on women also includes a transvaginal exam, in which a covered probe is inserted into the vagina to provide a closer view of the uterus and ovaries.
  • The exam may take 30 minutes to an hour.

    SALINE SONOHYSTEROGRAM:
  • The patient wears gown and lies on padded table with her feet in stirrups.
  • Similar to a gynecologic exam, the radiologist inserts a speculum. A small sterile tube is inserted into the cervix. The speculum is removed and a vaginal probe is inserted. Then saline is injected through the tube into the endometrium while the radiologist observes images on a monitor.
  • Minimal cramping and vaginal spotting may occur, as one might expect from a period.
  • The exam takes 45 to 60 minutes.