What is Ultrasound? Know the Purpose and Procedure

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What is Ultrasound? Know the Purpose and Procedure. Ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound waves to examine the organs of the body. Learn about the purpose, benefits, risks, and procedures of ultrasound in an accurate medical diagnosis.

Ultrasound is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images from within the body.

Ultrasound is a diagnostic tool that does not use ionizing radiation, so it is safe for various examinations, including in pregnant women. Below is an explanation of ultrasound, starting from its purpose, functions, types, and ending with the procedure and preparation.

What is Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images from within the body.

These sound waves are reflected by organs and structures in the body, and the reflections are captured by transducers and then converted into visual images by computers.

Ultrasound is used for a variety of medical purposes, from diagnosis to monitoring certain health conditions.

Purpose and Function of Ultrasound

Ultrasound examinations have many purposes and functions, including:

1. Ultrasound during pregnancy

Monitor fetal development, determine gestational age, identify congenital anomalies, assess the position of the placenta (as in the case of placenta previa).

2. Internal medicine ultrasound

Assess the condition of internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen to detect diseases such as cancer or gallstones.

3. Cardiac ultrasound

Known as echocardiography, it is used to study the structure and function of the heart.

4. Ultrasound of the mammary glands

It is used to detect the presence of lumps or abnormalities in the breast tissue.

5. Ultrasound of the abdominal cavity

Examining stomach organs, such as the liver, bile, pancreas, and intestines, for problems such as tumors or infections.

6. Ultrasound of urinary tract infections

It is used to monitor the condition of the kidneys and bladder in urinary tract infections.

Types of ultrasound

There are several types of ultrasound that are used for various medical purposes, namely:

1. USG transabdominal

The examination is carried out through the surface of the abdominal cavity. It is usually used to check the internal organs of the stomach and pregnancy.

2. USG transvaginal

With the help of a sensor inserted into the vagina. It is used to examine the female reproductive organs.

3. USG Transrectal

With the help of a sensor inserted into the rectum. It is used to check the prostate in men.

4. USG Doppler

By measuring blood flow through blood vessels, it can be used to check blood circulation in various organs.

5. USG 3D and 4D

Provides three-dimensional or four-dimensional images (with movement), often used in fetal ultrasound to monitor fetal development.

Organs that can be examined using ultrasound

Here are the organs that can be examined using ultrasound:

• Liver: To detect liver diseases, including tumors and cirrhosis.
• Kidney: To detect kidney stones or other structural abnormalities.
• Pancreas: To check for signs of pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer.
• Spleen: To assess the size and presence of abnormalities.
• Gallbladder: To detect gallstones or cholecystitis.
• Heart: To assess the function and also structure of the heart.
• Breast: To detect cysts or tumors.
• Female reproductive organs: to monitor pregnancy or to detect abnormalities in the uterus and ovaries.
• Urinary tract: To detect urinary tract infections or abnormalities in the kidneys and bladder.

Ultrasound Procedure

Ultrasound procedures are generally simple and painless. Here are the main stages of the ultrasound procedure:

1. Patient preparation

Patients may be asked to wear special clothing or undress in the study area.

2. Gel application

A water-based gel is applied to the skin to help the sensor move easily and ensure good contact with the skin.

3. Using a Transducer

The transducer moves over the desired area to send and receive sound waves.

4. Image Creation

The sound waves are reflected back to the transducer and converted into images by the computer.

5. Interpretation of results

The images of the ultrasound results will be interpreted by the doctor to determine the diagnosis or health status of the patient.

What to do before ultrasound

Preparation for an ultrasound varies depending on the type of research being conducted. Here are some of the requirements before an abdominal ultrasound and other types of examinations:

• Abdominal ultrasound: Patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the examination to reduce gas in the intestines that may interfere with the image.
• Ultrasound during pregnancy: No special preparation is required, but patients may be asked to drink water and hold urine to ensure a full bladder.
• Cardiac ultrasound: No special preparation is required.
• Ultrasound of the mammary glands: No special preparation is required.
• Ultrasound of urinary tract infection: Patients may be asked to drink plenty of water to fill their bladder.

Ultrasound Complications and Side Effects

Ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive procedure with minimal risk. However, there are some complications and side effects that are rare, including:

• Skin irritation: Some patients may experience mild skin irritation due to the gel used.
• Anxiety or discomfort: Transvaginal or transrectal ultrasound procedures can cause anxiety or discomfort in some patients.

In general, ultrasound is considered a very safe diagnostic tool, even for pregnant women and fetuses in the womb. Ultrasound is an important and versatile medical imaging technique that is used for a variety of diagnostic purposes and health monitoring.

With a wide range of ultrasounds available, from ultrasounds of pregnant women to ultrasounds of internal organs, this method offers a safe and effective way to see the internal conditions of the body without the use of radiation.

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