Ultrasound (Sonography/ USG)

Exploring Imaging Dimensions

With Ultrasound Sonography (USG)

Ultrasound sonography, also known as ultrasound imaging, is a non-invasive and painless medical imaging technique that utilises high frequency sound waves to generate real-time images of the tissues, muscles, and inner organs of the body. Ultrasound imaging is often used for diagnostic purposes for a wide range of indications as it enables the healthcare professionals to visualise and assess a number of internal organs, tissues, and structures without requiring a surgical intervention or use ionizing radiation.

Overview of the Key Aspects of Ultrasound Sonography (USG)

Ultrasound machines emit sound waves at frequencies that are higher than what is audible to the human ear. These sound waves travel through the patients’ body and bounce off different tissues and structures and the echoes are then detected by the transducer. These waves are then transformed into high-quality images that are then displayed on the monitor.

There are various types of ultrasound sonography including abdominal ultrasound, pelvic ultrasound, obstetric ultrasound, transvaginal ultrasound, cardiac echocardiography, vascular ultrasound, and breast ultrasound, among others.

Procedure: 

●       Before the procedure begins, the patients are advised to wear loose clothing and remove any jewellery that may interfere with the imaging.

●       Depending on the area to be examined, you may be advised to fast or have a full bladder to improve image quality.

●       The patient is then made to lie on the examination table and the ultrasound technologist then applies a clear, water-based gel to the area to be examined. This gel enables the transmission of sound waves between skin and transducer.

●       The technician then moves the transducer over the gel to generate images of the area of the interest.

●       The sonographer then captures images from various angles to provide an in-depth and comprehensive view of the body part that is being examined.

●       The images from the examination are then directly displayed on the monitor.

●       Radiologist, medical doctor, or ultrasound specialist then interprets these images to make a diagnosis.

Benefits: 

●       Versatile and valuable imaging technique that enables clear and precise viewing of internal structures

●       Non-invasive, safe, and painless

●       Real-time imaging that allows healthcare professionals to check for any abnormalities through movements and changes

●       Availability of portable ultrasound machines and can be performed as an outpatient, inpatient, and bedside procedure

●       Is cost-effective as compared to MRI and CT scans

●       Can be used to guide biopsies and surgical procedures

The patients are advised to inform the healthcare providers if they are pregnant or might suspect to be pregnant as some procedures may be contradicted during pregnancy. Patients are advised to inform their healthcare providers about any allergies or sensitivities to ultrasound gel or latex. Patients might experience some pain related to the procedure; hence they are advised to communicate with their healthcare provider in case of any extreme discomfort.