Ultrasound

How the test is performed

An ultrasound machine creates images that allow various organs in the body to be examined. The machine sends out high-frequency sound waves, which reflect off body structures. A computer receives these reflected waves and uses them to create a picture. Unlike with an x-ray, there is no ionizing radiation exposure with this test.

The test is done in the ultrasound or radiology department. You will be lying down for the procedure. A clear, water-based conducting gel is applied to the skin over the area being examined to help with the transmission of the sound waves. A handheld probe called a transducer is then moved over the area being examined. You may be asked to change position so that other areas can be examined.

For specific information about ultrasound examinations, please refer to the following topics:

• Pregnancy ultrasound
• Vascular ultrasound
• Doppler/ultrasound of the heart
• Doppler ultrasound of an arm or a leg
• Duplex Doppler/ultrasound exam of an arm or a leg
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Thyroid ultrasound
• Transvaginal ultrasound
• Testicle ultrasound

How to prepare for the test

Preparation for the procedure will depend on the body region being examined.

How the test will feel

There is generally little discomfort with ultrasound procedures. The conducting gel may feel slightly cold and wet.

Why the test is performed

The reason for the examination will depend on your symptoms.

Normal values

Results are considered normal if the organs and structures in the region being examined are normal in appearance.

What abnormal results mean

The significance of abnormal results will depend on the body region being examined and the nature of the problem. Consult your health care provider with any questions and concerns.

What the risks are

There are no documented risks. No ionizing radiation exposure is involved.

Special considerations

Most ultrasound examinations are performed in the manner described. However, certain circumstances require that the ultrasound probe be inserted into the body, rather than simply passing it over the skin. Consult your health care provider to determine the specifics of your test.

Review Date: 10/23/2006
Reviewed By: Stuart Bentley-Hibbert, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.