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Posted on April 1, 2006 by Yong Moma | Posted under Pregnancy
Uses Of Ultrasound
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Ultrasound is a scan that has no hazardous side effects and can be used on any area of the body. This screening produces uses high frequency sound waves which then create an image which is sent to the computer screen. It also referred to as a sonogram or an ultrasonography. The technology is the same as the technology used in ship's sonar. The high frequency sound waves hit an object and bounce the signal back. So on a ship the sound waves hit a pod of dolphins and the wave is bounced back producing an image on the screen of the dolphin school. On the body an organ is reached and the image is produced of that organ. This is done using a transducer which emits the high frequency sound waves that echo off the organs. The information is then sent to the computer which produces the image on the screen. Ultrasound is commonly used during pregnancy to: 1. Date the fetus2. Confirm pregnancy3. Spot multiple fetuses4. Monitor the growth of the fetus5. Watch for abnormalities and developmental problems6. Detect spina bifida7. Detect kidney, heart, intestine, and limb malformations.8. Detect whether there is too little or too much amniotic fluid.9. Check the position of the fetus10. Locate the placenta11. Used in conjunction with amniocentesis, PUBS, or CVS testing But it also has uses other than pregnancy. It is also used to:1. Diagnose gallbladder obstructions2. Diagnose gallbladder disease3. Evaluate blood flow within the blood vessels [Doppler Ultrasound]4. Assess the thyroid which is located in the neck.5. Diagnose cardiac problems6. Evaluate the heart The scan itself is absolutely painless and preparation doesn't get much easier. If you are pregnant wear a loose top so that it can be easily moved out of the way. That will save having to undress. For other scans whether you will be asked to change will depend on where the scan is being conducted. In the early months of pregnancy a full bladder gives much clearer pictures of the baby so about two hours before your ultrasound drink 4 to 6 glasses of water. Once you arrive you will be asked to lie on the examination table. A gel will then be spread across your belly. This gel helps conduct the images. The technician will then use a hand held transducer and run it over your entire belly. There is no pain but occasionally you may feel a slight pressure. This is normal. The scan takes about 30 minutes. Ultrasounds done really early or in cases where your doctor needs to see the cervix will use a transducer that's the size of a tampon which is inserted into the vagina. The scan takes about 30 minutes. The images are then saved and reviewed by the technician and a radiologist. Sometimes your doctor will also look at the images, otherwise the information is sent directly to your doctor. If you are lucky you'll get a printout of the image as a terrific keepsake for your baby book. You can always ask. The uses of ultrasound continue to grow because it is such a safe test. This means it can be used safely from the unborn to the elderly. About The Author: Yong has been working for a leading ultrasound manufacturer for last 8 years. At At http://www.ultrasoundlive.com he has provide information about different types of utlrassound equipments. Visit the website to get more information about ultrasound equipment and accessories. |
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