Diagnostic Procedures

CT uses a computer and a rotating x-ray device to create detailed, cross-sectional images, or slices, of organs and body parts. A CT machine resembles a large, square doughnut. A flat “patient couch” is situated in the circular opening, which is about 24 to 28 inches in diameter. The patient lies on the couch, which […]

CT scanning has the unique ability to image a combination of soft tissue, bone, and blood vessels. Among all available imaging techniques, it is one of the best tools for studying the lungs and abdomen. It is also invaluable in cancer diagnosis, and is the preferred method for diagnosing lung, liver, and pancreatic cancer. Other

Ultrasound imaging uses the principles of sonar developed for ships at sea. As sound passes through the body it produces echoes, which can identify distance, size and shape of objects inside. During the ultrasound examination, a machine called a transducer is used to view the target organ and produce pictures for study. The transducer emits

No special preparation is required for a routine ultrasound. Wear loose comfortable clothing to your ultrasound appointment. For a liver or gallbladder scan, the patient is usually asked to fast (take nothing by mouth) for several hours before the test. For a scan in early pregnancy, the woman is usually asked to drink several glasses

You will probably be asked to lie down on a bed or table for the scan. Clothing over the area to be scanned is removed, and a special warm oil or gel is applied to the skin. This is to achieve good contact as the transducer is passed back and forth. Ultrasonic waves are inaudible and cause

Here are some frequently asked questions related to ultrasound: Q: Is an abdominal ultrasound ordered for any condition other than pregnancy? A: There are several reasons the doctor requests an abdominal ultrasound. These include: Finding the cause of stomach pain Looking for stones in the gallbladder or kidney Diagnosing enlargement of an abdominal organ Pyloric stenosis,

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to ultrasound: Ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure that uses painless and harmless high frequency sound waves inaudible to the human ear to view internal organs and produce images of the human body One of the most common uses for ultrasound is to view the uterus and fetus during pregnancy. Ultrasound

Here are definitions of medical terms related to ultrasound: Aorta: The main artery of the body, arising directly from the left ventricle of the heart to supply oxygen-carrying blood to all other arteries (except the pulmonary artery, which carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs). Aortic stenosis: Narrowing of the aortic valve opening, causing obstruction

Here are some reliable sources that can provide more information on ultrasound: Radiology Info – A public information website of the Radiological Society of North America, and the American College of Radiology  http://www.radiologyinfo.org American College of Radiology – Provides information primarily for professionals, but provides a search for accredited facilities  Phone: (800) ACR-LINE Phone: (800) 227-5463 http://www.acr.org/

Ultrasound is useful for a variety of conditions, including: Obstetric (related to pregnancy) uses for ultrasound Non-obstetric uses for ultrasound Specialized ultrasound imaging procedures include: Echocardiography Doppler echocardiography Ultrasound for biopsy Obstetric Uses For Ultrasound One of the most common uses for ultrasound is to view the uterus (the muscular organ in a woman’s abdomen