Ultrasounds

What are ultrasounds?

Ultrasounds are imaging tests that produce pictures of your body’s internal structures and tissues using sound waves. During an ultrasound, an external probe called a transducer delivers sound waves through your skin. 

The sound waves move until they reach a barrier between tissues, such as the area between tissue and bone. Then, the sound waves bounce back to the transducer, generating signals that produce two-dimensional images. 

Ultrasounds are one of the most common methods of diagnostic imaging today. Marsalis Avenue Family and Urgent Care Clinic provides this noninvasive test in the office. 

When might I need ultrasounds?

You might need an ultrasound if the team needs to examine or diagnose internal problems that aren’t visible (or aren’t completely clear) with X-rays. While X-rays image bone very effectively, ultrasound is generally a more accurate method of soft tissue and organ imaging. You may have both X-rays (including advanced X-rays like CT scans) and ultrasounds.  

Ultrasounds can also provide more information than other types of standard tests. For example, an electrocardiogram (EKG) shows heart electrical activity. But, an echocardiogram (a heart ultrasound) can show specific problems with the heart structure that an EKG can’t reveal. 

Ultrasounds are particularly adept at showing organs and soft tissue structures, including your heart, kidneys, liver, muscles, blood vessels, and bladder. A few of the specific reasons that you might need an ultrasound include injury diagnosis, pregnancy confirmation, heart symptoms, joint pain, and diagnosis of swelling or other problems.

How does an ultrasound work?

For an ultrasound, your technician smooths a layer of cool gel over the skin. The gel prevents air pockets that could disrupt the ultrasound waves, and it also helps the transducer to move smoothly across your skin. 

Then, your technician moves the transducer over the area that they’re imaging. You’ll usually feel some pressure, but it’s not uncomfortable. Your technician may ask you to hold your breath and remain completely motionless a couple of times, as this can help to generate the best images. 

After your ultrasound exam, your technician wipes the remnants of the gel off your skin and you can return to your normal activities right away. 

Ultrasound is an advanced imaging test, but you don’t have to visit an external facility for this test thanks to Marsalis Avenue Family and Urgent Care Clinic. Book your appointment by phone or use the online scheduler to book your ultrasound now.