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Diagnostic Ultrasound
In addition to offering state-of-the-art open Upright MRI services and Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging, the Upright Imaging Center also offers Diagnostic Ultrasound.
What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a very valuable noninvasive diagnostic tool. It works by sending high frequency sound into the body and then reading the returning sound echoes from the internal organs. It allows for the real time visualization of structures such as cysts, tumors and stones. Ultrasound can detect enlarged kidney, liver and pancreas structures, abnormal gall bladder and gall stones, breast masses and cysts, thyroid masses, enlargement of the ovaries and uterus, and normal and ectopic pregnancies.
Ultrasound also can detect movement of blood in the arteries and veins and is excellent for detecting blood clots in the veins of the legs. It is also useful for detecting atherosclerotic narrowing or occlusion of the arteries in the neck.
Ultrasound does not use X-rays, so there is no risk of radiation exposure. There are no required injections, it is not painful, and sedation is not necessary. The test usually takes about 20 minutes and is performed by a fully trained and board certified ultrasound technologist who moves a probe around the body in the area to scanned. For scanning the female pelvis, a vaginal probe is often used.
On what parts of the body is Ultrasound used?
Recent improvements in ultrasound equipment have so dramatically improved image quality and ease of use that the technology is used in almost every branch of medicine. At the Upright Imaging Center, our sonographers image many areas of the body including:
* Abdomen
* The Vascular System
* Heart
* Brain
* Prostate
* Breast
* Musculoskeletal
Our facility also provides gynecological and obstetric ultrasound services.
What to expect during your Ultrasound
The examination is performed using high frequency sound waves, like sonar that is used on ships. During the exam, you cannot hear or feel these sound waves and there is no x-ray radiation involved. The sonographer will first apply a gel-like substance on your skin over the area to be examined. For this reason, you may be asked to wear a hospital gown. While scanning, the sonographer uses a probe called a transducer. This piece of equipment is hand held and is guided over the area to be examined. The gelatin substance helps keep contact between the skin and the transducer. This procedure is typically pain-free. For scanning the female pelvis, a vaginal probe is often used.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 847-291-9321 or email us at info_uprightimagingcenter.com
