Patient Education - Endocrine Encyclopedia
Endocrine Surgery Encyclopedia
 Definition:
Ultrasound involves the use of high-frequency sound waves to create images of organs and
systems within the body.
Alternative Names: Sonogram
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
- Duplex/Doppler 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: 11/3/2004
Reviewed By: Jeffrey J. Brown, MD FACR, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University
School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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