Ultrasound
Ultrasound technology offers incredible diagnostic abilities and is one of the most useful tools available at Claremont Medical Center in Claremont, California, and servicing Upland, CA and Pomona, CA. Mohitkumar Ardeshana, MD, offers state-of-the-art ultrasound services to men and women from in and around Claremont, California. To learn more about the role that ultrasound might play in your diagnostic journey, schedule a visit with Dr. Ardeshana today. You can book your appointment online or by phone.
Ultrasound Q & A
What is ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a type of imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time “pictures” of your soft tissue structures. Ultrasound technology has a wide range of medical applications and can make a world of difference as you move through the diagnostic process.
The process works by using a special wand called a transducer to send and receive high-frequency sound waves. When these sound waves enter your body they bounce back of various internal structures. The transducer collects those sounds and converts them into an image of your internal tissues.
Many transducers are used externally, but there are also several types that can be used inside your body. Special transducers can be used in your rectum, vagina, or in your esophagus. There are even tiny transducers that can be threaded through a catheter and inside your blood vessels.
The process works by using a special wand called a transducer to send and receive high-frequency sound waves. When these sound waves enter your body they bounce back of various internal structures. The transducer collects those sounds and converts them into an image of your internal tissues.
Many transducers are used externally, but there are also several types that can be used inside your body. Special transducers can be used in your rectum, vagina, or in your esophagus. There are even tiny transducers that can be threaded through a catheter and inside your blood vessels.
What are some uses for ultrasound imaging?
You may be familiar with the type of ultrasound imaging used to check the development of an unborn child. There are many other uses for ultrasounds, including:
These are just some of the ways that ultrasound technology can improve diagnostics. Virtually any soft tissue within the body can be evaluated using some form of ultrasound.
- Assessing the extent of internal injuries
- Evaluating fluid buildup around your heart
- Checking the amount of fluid left after emptying bladder
- Searching for signs of uterine fibroids
- Looking for obstructions related to incontinence
- Tracking gallstone movement
- Evaluating blood clots or obstructed arteries
- Detect signs of prostate cancer
These are just some of the ways that ultrasound technology can improve diagnostics. Virtually any soft tissue within the body can be evaluated using some form of ultrasound.
What happens during an ultrasound?
The process for having an ultrasound is straightforward. Depending on the type of ultrasound, you may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking before your appointment. In other cases, you might be asked to drink a certain amount of water before your visit.
Once you arrive, you may change into a robe or gown to allow access to the ultrasound site. Your practitioner might use a special gel to help the transducer glide over your skin. There is no pain or discomfort during the process.
If you’re having a vaginal or rectal ultrasound, the transducer is gently inserted into position. An ultrasound of your esophagus will require medication to reduce discomfort and help you relax as the transducer and endoscope are moved into position.
Once you arrive, you may change into a robe or gown to allow access to the ultrasound site. Your practitioner might use a special gel to help the transducer glide over your skin. There is no pain or discomfort during the process.
If you’re having a vaginal or rectal ultrasound, the transducer is gently inserted into position. An ultrasound of your esophagus will require medication to reduce discomfort and help you relax as the transducer and endoscope are moved into position.
What are the benefits of an ultrasound?
There are many reasons why ultrasound technology plays such a central role in the diagnostic process. Some of the advantages of this imaging technology include:
- No pain and no need for anesthesia
- Minimally invasive and no need for incisions or needles
- No exposure to ionizing radiation
- Ability to “see” tissues that X-rays don’t clearly show
- Widely accessible
- Less expensive than many other imaging options