Ultrasound scanning is one of the most common medical tests used to capture the images of internal body structures by using high-frequency sound waves. The procedure is also referred to as sonography and is highly preferable by doctors since it does not use radiation as such it is considered a safe method for diagnosis. Primarily, an ultrasound scan is non-invasive as the device works outside the body with the only requirement being a focus on the organs that are being diagnosed. However, some situations call for an internal ultrasound scan where the device is inserted into your body for a more unobstructed view of specific organs and special examination.
At Intermountain Medical Imaging you can receive medical imaging which is performed by certified sonographers under controlled environments. Primarily, the method for conducting the tests involves the application of gel to the skin before the hand-held transducer is gently moved around the areas of interest. The gel has the main function of aiding the waves to travel properly for better imaging of the internal organs. An ultrasound scan might be recommended for several reasons including;
- Pregnancy ultrasound. This is the most popular ultrasound test which doctors use for a variety of reasons to note the progress of the mother and baby during pregnancy. While some people use the procedure to determine the sex of the baby, it is not advisable to go for the process without any medical backing. Among the most common reasons for the scan is to check for congenital abnormalities, diagnose problems with the reproductive organs, check fetal heartbeat, multiple pregnancy, diagnose an ectopic pregnancy, and determine the due date.
- Diagnosis of conditions that affect major organs. An ultrasound scan can be used to detect any problems with the heart, kidneys, liver, uterus & ovaries, blood vessels, spleen, pancreas, gallbladder, and thyroid. This is done through the interpretation of the images which are able to show any variations from the normal in the event of any medical condition affecting the organ. The only limitation to the use of ultrasound imaging is that they are not able to provide accurate results for dense parts such as the head because of the skull and body parts that hold air like the lungs. The procedure is nonetheless useful for other regions and can be used to examine lumps in the breast or growths in the testis.
- Therapeutic applications. Injuries in the soft tissues can easily be detected through ultrasound scanning allowing for focused treatment. Medical practitioners highly recommend the process for ease in coming up with a treatment plan.
- As a guide to medical procedures. Surgeons require the results from an ultrasound scan to act as a guide during a medical procedure for better accuracy and prior planning for a session.
The simplicity with which ultrasound scans are conducted makes it a medical process that does not require a lot of preparation. In the event that any prior planning is required, a medical doctor always notified you beforehand such as whether you should eat or drink anything before the procedure. In most cases, however, there are no special requirements for the procedure that takes less than an hour to complete.