What is an ultrasound – and how is it done?
In this article, we will describe what is an ultrasound, and how it is done.
An ultrasound scan is a non-invasive medical imaging procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal structures within the body. It is done by an x-ray doctor (radiologist) or ultrasound technician.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how an ultrasound is done:
Preparation
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No special preparation: In most cases, no special preparation is required
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Wear comfortable clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area being scanned
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Remove jewellery: Remove any jewellery that may interfere with the scan.
Ultrasound procedure
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Lie down on the table: You’ll lie down on a comfortable table, usually on your back
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Gel application: A clear, water-based gel will be applied to the skin over the area being scanned
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Probe placement: A small probe called a transducer will be placed on the skin by the doctor or technician, usually with some pressure
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Sound waves emitted: The transducer will emit high-frequency sound waves into the body
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Echoes received: The sound waves will bounce off internal structures and return to the transducer as echoes
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Images created: The echoes will be used to create images of the internal structures.
During the scan
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Stay still: You’ll need to remain still during the scan to ensure clear images
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Breathing instructions: You may be asked to hold your breath or follow specific breathing instructions
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Pressure: You may feel some pressure from the transducer, but it should not be painful.
- Time: An ultrasound takes 5-10 minutes.
Types of ultrasound
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Abdominal ultrasound: Scans the organs in the abdominal cavity, e.g. liver, spleen, kidneys and bladder
- Pregnancy ultrasound: Scans the baby inside the mother
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Pelvic ultrasound: Scans the reproductive organs
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Cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram): Scans the heart
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Doppler ultrasound: Scans blood flow through vessels.
After the scan
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Results: The images will be analysed by a radiologist (x-ray doctor), and the results will be sent to your doctor
Remember, an ultrasound scan is a painless and non-invasive procedure.
Summary
We have described what is an ultrasound, and how it is done. We hope it has been helpful.
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