Ultrasonogram

Ultrasonogram is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the internal organs. Images are created by a computer and special transducer, which sends out ultrasonic sound waves in the body. The sound waves bounce off the organs like an echo and return to the transducer. The transducer picks up the reflected waves, which are then interpreted by the computer to create an image of the organs or tissues being examined.

Uses

Ultrasonograms are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels. The procedure is often used to examine the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, bladder, uterus, ovaries, thyroid, testicles, and blood vessels. It can also be used to guide procedures such as needle biopsies, in which needles are used to extract sample cells for testing.

Procedure

During an ultrasonogram, a transducer is used to send out sound waves and receive the echoes as the sound waves bounce off the internal organs. The transducer is a hand-held device that is placed on the skin, which is first lubricated with gel. The sound waves are at a frequency too high to be heard, but they produce moving images that can be interpreted by a trained technician.

Risks

Ultrasonograms are generally safe and do not carry the same risks as X-rays or other types of imaging systems that use radiation. However, they can produce false-positive results, which can lead to unnecessary treatments, or false-negative results, which can delay necessary treatment.

See also

• Medical imaging
• Radiology
• Ultrasound

Ultrasonogram Resources
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