About

Home
About

General Questions

What is an ultrasound?
How Does ultrasound imaging work?
Are ultrasound scans safe?
Why do I need full bladder for my ultrasound exam?

An ultrasound scan, also called sonography, is a diagnostic tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to create live images of the inside of the body’s structures. The images allow the doctor to see and determine any abnormality or health-related issue with the body’s organs, tissues, and vessels.

During an ultrasound exam, a transducer (a wand-like hand-held device) sends sound waves within the body. The sound waves come into contact with tissues, bones and body fluids (such as blood), and bounce back, like echoes. These echoes are received by the transducer and then turned into images. The denser the tissue the more sound waves will bounce back.

There are no known harmful effects of these scans. There has been widespread usage of diagnostic ultrasound in pregnancy. A trained healthcare professional, also known as a sonographer, will follow the guidelines to ensure that you and your baby are safe. A prudent approach is to use the sound waves at the lowest level and for the shortest time.

A full bladder moves the organs and allows the sonographer to see with much more clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CT scan?

A CT scan uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of organs, bones and other tissues in cross section like slices. It provides more detail than a regular X-ray.

How long will my CT exam take?

The entire procedure usually takes between 0 to 60 minutes, depending on what part of the body is being scanned.

What should I expect after the CT scan is completed?

After the scan is finished, a radioligist will study your images and dictate the findings. Your physician will then review the report and discuss it with you.

Why do I need the IV contrast?

It helps in enhancing all of the vascular structures on the images (i.e. liver, pancreas, kidneys).

Is CT scan safe?

CT scan is a safe imaging test. However, it exposes you to a small dose of radiation. For most people, such a small potential risk far outweighs the benefits, in terms of saving your life.