Ultrasound Imaging

What is an ultrasound? 

An ultrasound, also called sonography or ultrasound imaging, is a noninvasive imaging exam that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of structures inside your body. Your physician may recommend an ultrasound to look at your organs, tissues, or blood vessels and check for changes or problems.

During an ultrasound, a small handheld device called a transducer is moved over your skin. The transducer sends sound waves into your body and captures images on a computer. Ultrasound exams usually don't require incisions or needle sticks.

Ultrasound can be used to examine many areas of the body, including the abdomen, breasts, female pelvis, scrotum, thyroid, parathyroid, and vascular system. It can also show how organs function and how blood flows through blood vessels. In some cases, ultrasound imaging helps guide a biopsy, allowing your radiologist to place a needle more precisely.

Unlike X-rays and CT scans, ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation. This makes ultrasound a safe imaging option for many people and can be especially helpful during pregnancy when reducing radiation exposure is important.