Diagnostic Imaging

Ultrasound

What is ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a widely used diagnostic test for the examination of internal organs and tissues. This diagnostic imaging technique uses ultrasound waves to visualize internal structures of the human body. It is a non-invasive test that does not use ionizing radiation , allowing for accurate examination in various clinical settings. For example, it is used as a guideline for fine-needle aspirations and needle biopsies of nodules in various body regions.

Why is an ultrasound performed?

Ultrasound is prescribed for various diagnostic and monitoring purposes, including:

Evaluation of internal organs (liver, kidneys, pancreas, thyroid).
Analysis of muscles, tendons and joints in case of trauma or inflammation.
Monitoring pregnancy and fetal development.
Identifying any abnormalities, cysts or nodules.
The study of the vascular system through Doppler ultrasound.
It can also be used as a guideline procedure in agoa

It can also be used as a guide procedure in fine needle aspirations and needle biopsies of nodules in various body areas (e.g. thyroid and breast).

Difference between ultrasound and x-ray

Ultrasound and X-ray are two different diagnostic methods. Ultrasound uses ultrasound waves and allows for precise visualization of soft tissues and internal organs. Radiography , on the other hand, uses X-rays and is more suitable for analyzing bones and calcified structures.

What can be observed with an ultrasound?

Through ultrasound it is possible to analyse numerous body districts, including:
Abdominal organs (liver, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, bladder).
Glands (thyroid, salivary glands, lymph nodes).
Mammary glands
Musculoskeletal structures (muscles, tendons, joints).
Pelvic organs (uterus, ovaries, prostate).
Heart (by echocardiography).
Vascular system (arteries and veins with Doppler ultrasound).

Directions for preparation

The methods of preparation for the ultrasound vary according to the type of examination to be performed:

Abdominal ultrasound: it is necessary to observe a fast of at least 6 hours.
Pelvic ultrasound: it is recommended to take approximately 1 liter of water one hour before the exam to allow better visualization of the bladder.
Musculoskeletal, breast, salivary gland, thyroid and lymph node ultrasounds: do not require specific preparation.

How the exam is conducted

During the exam, the patient is placed on a bed and the specialist applies a clear gel to the skin to improve ultrasound transmission. The ultrasound probe is moved over the area to be examined, and the images are transmitted in real time to a monitor for diagnostic interpretation.

Duration of the ultrasound

The duration of the examination varies depending on the area of the body analysed and the complexity of the investigation, with an average of 15 minutes.

Types of ultrasound scans available

At our facility it is possible to undergo various types of ultrasound scans, including:

Abdominal ultrasound: liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen
Thyroid ultrasound: evaluation of the thyroid and any nodules
Musculoskeletal ultrasound: analysis of muscles, tendons, joints
Breast ultrasound: evaluation of solid or liquid nodules
Soft tissue ultrasound for the study of subcutaneous nodules and suspected abdominal wall hernias
Gynecological and obstetric ultrasound: Pregnancy monitoring and pelvic organ study
Cardiac ultrasound: echocardiogram, assessment of cardiac function
Vascular ultrasound: doppler, study of blood flow in arteries and veins

Who can undergo an ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a safe test with no contraindications . It can be performed on patients of any age, including children, pregnant women, and the elderly, without any health risks.

Main components of the ultrasound scanner

The ultrasound is a diagnostic tool composed of:

Ultrasound probe that emits and receives ultrasound.
Monitor on which images are displayed in real time.
Processing unit that processes the acquired images.
Conductive gel needed to improve the transmission of ultrasound between the probe and the skin.