Ultrasounds became a household word when they were utilized for showing images of babies in the womb. They are used to check on the baby’s growth, health, and of course, parents want to know the sex of their child. What an amazing tool an ultrasound is, but that’s not all! There are many other medical uses. What does an ultrasound detect?
A Sonogram By Any Other Name
An ultrasound is the same as a sonogram. It uses soundwaves to form images inside the body, and no radiation is used. The sonographer uses a device known as a transducer or a probe to convert electrical current into soundwaves which creates a picture on the computer screen.
It allows Southwest Diagnostic Imaging Center to see details of soft tissue inside your body without making any incisions. It is a safe non-invasive procedure with no known risks.
How Ultrasounds Are Used
According to Cleveland Clinic not only are ultrasounds used for the diagnosis of medical conditions, but they are also useful as a guide during medical treatment. It provides precision when inserting needles to sample fluids and tissue from tendons and muscles.
Some other ways include the following:
- A bone ultrasound examines bone density and any risk for osteoporosis.
- A breast ultrasound can detect breast cancer in women with very dense breasts.
- An abdominal ultrasound examines tissue in the abdomen and nearby organs.
- It can assist with biopsies.
- An ultrasound of the heart, or an echocardiogram, looks at the overall health and function of the heart.
- It can diagnose causes of pain, swelling, and infection.
- An ultrasound looks at joint inflammation.
- It can detect genital and prostate problems.
In addition, an ultrasound can also be used to detect tumors, blood clots, kidney and bladder stones, an enlarged spleen, or an ectopic pregnancy.
Lastly, an ultrasound is not able to image the lungs or the head since soundwaves do not travel through bone and air.
Contact Southwest Diagnostic Imaging Center at (214) 345-6905 if you have questions about an upcoming ultrasound procedure or would like to schedule one at our imaging center in Dallas, TX.