Ultrasound
Find an Inova location for your ultrasound
Ultrasound is a very safe, effective imaging technology that uses high frequency sound waves to produce images
of internal organs
and tissues in real time.
Ultrasound images show movement of organs, blood flow and heart valve functions. It is frequently used to evaluate the progress of a growing fetus in a pregnant woman, giving expectant parents their first "baby pictures."
Ultrasound is also useful for examining the body's internal organs, including the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys and bladder.
How does it work?
Ultrasound uses a device known as a transducer to send
out high frequency sound
waves into the body. The transducer is placed on the patient's
skin and
the waves reflect off organs and transmit back into the
ultrasound equipment, producing
images of the area.
What can it diagnose? Ultrasound is frequently used to identify soft tissue conditions of the abdomen and pelvis, heart and blood vessels. Ultrasound is also used to assess the musculoskeletal system and joints. The imaging is especially useful for determining the source of pain, swelling or infection.
Ultrasound is also used to guide physicians performing procedures such as needle biopsies.
