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McKesson Clinical Reference Systems: Women's Health Advisor 2002.2
Spanish version
Ultrasound Scanning
What is ultrasound scanning?
Ultrasound scanning is a procedure that uses high-frequency
sound waves and their echoes to create a picture of the
internal organs, especially soft tissue that does not show
up well on x-ray images. Ultrasound scanning works
similarly to sonar systems used by ships.
When is it used?
It is used to diagnose diseases or examine an unborn baby
during pregnancy. In addition, it is useful in examining
the heart at work since it can show the opening and closing
of the valves.
How do I prepare for ultrasound scanning?
In general, you don't need to do anything special to prepare
for the procedure. Some specific tests, such as an
ultrasound of the uterus, require a full bladder. If
preparations are necessary, your health care provider or the
technologist will give you instructions.
What happens during the procedure?
High-frequency waves pass through the body from a device
called a transducer placed on part of the body. A
liquid-jelly is usually applied to the skin to improve the contact
between your body and the transducer. The transducer is
connected at the other end to a computer with a display
screen. As the sound waves pass through the body, they are
reflected by the body organ and create echoes. The computer
converts these echoes into an image of the body organ.
A special ultrasound, called Doppler ultrasound, is used to
check movement in organs such as blood flowing through blood
vessels.
What are the benefits of this procedure?
Ultrasound scanning helps your health care provider to see
some of the inside of your body, which helps him or her to
diagnose your problem. Ultrasound waves are considered very
safe.
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