An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal structures of the body. During the exam, a hand held device called a transducer is pressed against your skin over the area of your body being examined. The transducer sends out high frequency sound waves and measures the echoed sound that bounces off tissue, fluids or organs, creating an image that is recorded on a computer and viewed on a monitor.
This diagnostic tool, also known as a sonogram, is non-invasive and pain free, although you may feel some discomfort if you have pain issues and your body needs to be moved into an awkward position during the exam.
An ultrasound is used to diagnose causes of pain, swelling and disease as well as guide biopsies and examine a fetus’s growth during pregnancy. We commonly use ultrasound to evaluate the following areas:
- Abdomen
- Breast
- Pelvis: female reproductive system, bladder, scrotum
- Muscoloskeletal: knee, shoulder, groin
- Vascular systems: veins, arteries, aorta
We also use doppler ultrasound, a special kind of ultrasound to evaluate the speed and direction of blood flow in certain areas of the body, such as the leg veins and neck arteries.
Mid Rogue Imaging Center uses the General Electric Logiq E9 system.
How should I prepare for my ultrasound exam?
At Mid Rogue Imaging Center, we tailor the test to the individual and the specific part of the body we are examining. No two tests are identical, so you will be given preparation instructions when you make your appointment for the exam.
What happens during this procedure?
Depending on how many images are needed, the exam generally takes 20 to 40 minutes to complete.
You will be asked to remain still during the actual imaging process.
The sonographer will squeeze ultrasound gel on your skin to eliminate any air pockets that might block sound waves, press the scanner gently into your skin and move it back and forth around the examination area. There should be no pain. If you have swelling or infection in that area, the pressure of the scanner may be uncomfortable.
When the exam is over, you will be given paper towels to clean off the gel. You are then ready to go and can resume normal activities.
What happens after the examination?
After your examination your images will be stored in our Infinitt PACS system. The radiologists will review and interpret your study and send the report to your physicians’ office. Your findings will be reported to your physician the same day of your examination. Should there be any findings requiring immediate treatment, our radiologists will call your physician in person to make them aware of your condition.
We do not provide test results to you until after the report has been sent your physicians’ office.