Ultrasound is a type of medical imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the fetus. It is commonly used for prenatal care and for monitoring the development of the fetus. Although it is one of the most common types of imaging, other types are also commonly utilized.
Unlike other medical imaging procedures, ultrasound does not require incisions or radiation. It is safe and painless and allows radiologists to examine internal organs. Through the waves, the computer then produces an image.
Transducers that are used for ultrasound are usually applied to the skin using gel. They are mainly utilized for diagnostic purposes.
Pelvic Ultrasound Imaging
This imaging type is commonly used to diagnose various conditions such as pain, bleeding, and cancer. A pelvic ultrasound is also helpful in diagnosing ovarian cysts, uterus tumors, and kidney stones.
Abdominal Ultrasounds
It can also be used to examine various organs such as the liver, spleen, kidney, and gallbladder. It can detect damage caused by illnesses or certain conditions, and it can determine if one has abdominal pain or stones in the gallbladder.
Obstetric Ultrasounds
This imaging modality is commonly used during pregnancy to check the progress of the fetus. It allows doctors to diagnose various abnormalities and determine the number of fetuses.
Transvaginal Ultrasound
Before a woman can undergo this procedure, she must empty her bladder. A transducer is then placed inside the vagina. This type of imaging is sometimes used for patients with pelvic pain.
Transrectal Ultrasound
The goal of this procedure is to visualize the carotid artery, which carries blood from the neck down to the brain. It can be used to check for carotid artery stenosis, which can lead to stroke.
Carotid and Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound
The goal of this procedure is to visualize the carotid artery, which carries blood from the neck down to the brain. It can be used to check for carotid artery stenosis, which can lead to stroke.
An abdominal and carotid ultrasound can also detect an aneurysm, which is a type of abnormal enlargement.
