Summary
Ultrasound examinations, also known as sonography, are versatile and non-invasive diagnostic procedures used in medical specialties. They provide valuable information about the body and internal structures, helping to diagnose and control various diseases. This article provides an overview of two common ultrasound examinations: abdominal and pelvic.
Abdominal ultrasound:
Purpose:
Abdominal ultrasound is a widely used diagnostic tool for imaging abdominal organs and structures, including the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, and abdominal vasculature.
Indications:
Abdominal ultrasound is performed to investigate various medical problems, such as detecting gallstones, evaluating liver disease, evaluating kidney function, and detecting tumors in the abdominal cavity.
Procedure:
During the examination, the patient may be made to lie down and a water-based gel applied to the abdomen. An ultrasound probe is moved over the skin to obtain images. The procedure is painless and usually takes 30-45 minutes.
Pelvic ultrasound:
Purpose:
Pelvic ultrasound is primarily used to evaluate the pelvic organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and bladder. It is an important aid in obstetrics and gynecology.
Indications:
Pelvic ultrasound is used for many different purposes, such as monitoring pregnancy, diagnosing gynecological diseases, evaluating fertility problems, and evaluating pelvic pain or abnormalities.
Procedure:
A transabdominal pelvic ultrasound often requires a full bladder to clearly visualize the pelvic organs. The sensor is moved over the lower abdomen. A transvaginal pelvic ultrasound involves inserting a special probe into the vagina for a more detailed examination. Both methods are generally well tolerated and cause minimal discomfort. Although abdominal and pelvic ultrasound are common, ultrasound technology is versatile and can be applied to many areas of medicine. Other common ultrasound tests include:
Obstetric ultrasound:
used to monitor fetal development during pregnancy.
Ultrasound of the heart (echocardiography):
evaluates the structure and function of the heart.
Vascular ultrasound:
assess circulation and vascular status.
Breast ultrasound:
Helps identify and evaluate breast abnormalities.
These ultrasounds are invaluable tools for healthcare professionals, providing non-invasive real-time imaging that improves diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient management. Understanding the specific indications and procedures for each ultrasound examination is essential for accurate and effective treatment.
