Ultrasound

What is an ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a non-invasive medical imaging technique based on the analysis of sound waves using a probe and a processor to acquire and reconstruct images using a computerized algorithm. It generates images of the inside of the human body, organs and blood vessels.

Ultrasound is a frequently used test in general, abdominal, gynecological/obstetric, vascular and urological examinations. It is often the first diagnostic examination before a CT or MRI scan.

This technique has a great advantage, and that is that it is harmless, i.e. it does not use X-rays or magnetic fields.

Types of ultrasound scans

This examination can be performed in different areas of the body:

ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND

The purpose of this scan is to evaluate organs such as the liver, bile ducts, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen and great vessels.

THYROID ULTRASOUND

Thyroid ultrasound studies the thyroid gland.

RENAL AND ADRENAL ULTRASOUND

Renal and adrenal ultrasound is very important to diagnose pathologies in the kidneys.

MAMMARY ULTRASOUND

Breast ultrasound is dedicated to the study of the breast. It is a complementary exploration to mammography.

PELVIC ULTRASOUND

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the pelvic organs, in particular for the evaluation of the prostate or the uterine anus.

BLADDER ULTRASOUND

In this case, the objective is to specifically study the bladder, which is important in the diagnosis of bladder pathologies such as urinary stones, tumors, urinary infections, among others. In addition to studying the bladder when it is full, in some circumstances the empty bladder is also studied.

PROSTATE ULTRASOUND

The ultrasound can be performed transrectally, offering greater anatomical detail and can serve as a method of guidance for prostate biopsies.

SCROTAL ULTRASOUND

Scrotal ultrasound allows analysis of the organs and structures of the male reproductive system (testicles, epididymis, spermatic cord and scrotal sacs).

GYNECOLOGICAL ULTRASOUND

Ultrasound is very important to study internal organs such as the uterus, ovaries, endometrium and bladder.

ENDOVAGINAL ULTRASOUND

In this case, the ultrasound is performed by means of a high-frequency probe that is introduced into the vaginal canal, allowing a more detailed evaluation of the organs.

SOFT TISSUE ULTRASOUND

This technique is used to study very specific localized alterations related to soft tissues, which do not involve joint or bone structures, in various locations, such as back, arms, thighs, etc.

OSTEOARTICULAR OR MUSCULOSKELETAL SONOGRAPHY

In this case, the ultrasound focuses on the joints and all their components.

CARDIAC ULTRASOUND

Better known as echocardiogram, this test is dedicated to the study of the heart and great vessels. It is usually performed in conjunction with Doppler ultrasound.

OTHER TYPES OF ULTRASOUND

There are many other types of ultrasound, such as salivary gland ultrasound and penile ultrasound, among others.

Does ultrasound require any preparation?

Some ultrasounds require preparation. When you book your ultrasound, you will be given all the information you need.

For some scans you may be asked to fast, while for others you may be asked to drink plenty of water before the scan.

Ask the Affidea staff if you have any questions about preparing for your scan.

Do I need to fast for an ultrasound?

Some types of ultrasound may require the patient to fast. However, at the time of your appointment, you will be advised of all the necessary preparation for the exam.

What happens during an ultrasound?

During the ultrasound, you will be asked to lie on the examination table, usually face down. A gel is applied to the skin and an ultrasound probe (transducer) is moved over the gel to acquire the images.

The scan is painless, however, in some cases the physician may have to gently apply some pressure to the area being studied to obtain greater visibility of the tissues being evaluated.

How long does an ultrasound take?

Depending on the type, an ultrasound may last up to 30 minutes. However, most of the time it lasts less than 10 minutes.