Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a fast and non-invasive procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of tissues and organs inside your body. While this procedure is generally used in pregnancies and is considered one of the best methods for viewing an unborn child, it is also used to image the gallbladder, liver, kidneys, pancreas, uterus, ovaries, prostate, testicles, thyroid, and breasts.
Ultrasound can also look at and listen to blood flow within arteries and veins in the neck, abdomen, and legs, as well as the valves and chambers of the heart.
A small device called a transducer is used to send sound waves into the body, which are then reflected off of internal structures. The returning sound waves (echoes) are then sent back to the same transducer and the attached equipment electronically changes the echoes into a picture (image) of your internal structures.
What to Expect at Your Ultrasound
There are special instructions to follow when preparing for an ultrasound. Please reference the information here: Preparing for an Ultrasound.
The length of your ultrasound will depend on the type of procedure your physician has ordered:
- Abdomen, gallbladder, kidney, pelvis, breast, thyroid, and testicular ultrasounds usually take 30 minutes or less.
- Obstetrical ultrasounds generally take approximately 45 minutes.
- Doppler exams, which evaluate the blood flow in your vessels, may last from 45-60 minutes, depending on which blood vessels are studied.
Most patients can be imaged using ultrasound. However, due to differences in body frames, size, etc., other diagnostic tools may be necessary in addition to ultrasound.
Ultrasound results will be prepared by the technician and interpreted by a board-certified radiologist. Your physician will receive the results within 24 to 48 hours, who will then follow up with you to discuss.
Comprehensive Ultrasound Imaging in Central and Western Palm Beach County
Independent Imaging performs a wide variety of ultrasounds for referring physicians throughout Palm Beach County. We offer state-of-the-art ultrasound imaging technology in Wellington, Lake Worth, Royal Palm Beach, and Belle Glade. Request your preferred appointment online or dial (561) 795-5558.