Ultrasound

Abdominal & Retroperitoneal

Description: Abdominal and retroperitoneal ultrasound uses sound frequency in a range that is higher than humans are able to hear to produce images of internal structures on a viewing screen. In an abdominal examination, ultrasound produces images of the major organs, including the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and large blood vessels.

Indications: There are many reasons for examining the abdomen with ultrasound. Among the more common reasons are:

• To look for causes of abdominal pain including gallstones, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, kidney stones, and appendicitis
• To look for masses or enlargements in the liver or spleen
• To look for kidney masses and diagnose obstruction
• To evaluate jaundice or abnormal liver enzyme test
• To look for enlargement (aneurysms) of the abdominal aorta

Obstetrical Ultrasound

Description: Obstetrical ultrasound uses sound frequency in a range higher than humans are able to hear to produce images of internal structures on a viewing screen. An obstetrical/endovaginal ultrasound enables the radiologist to visualize the baby inside the mother’s uterus. In some cases during early pregnancy the radiologist may recommend an endovaginal study which involves the use of a special small transducer placed in a protective cover and then inserted into the vagina to improve visualization of the baby or the cervix.

Indication: The most common reason for having an obstetrical ultrasound is to help the healthcare provider to determine a due date. It is also used to ensure that a baby is growing properly, record fetal position, to locate the placenta, to determine the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby and to detect the presence of a multiple pregnancy. In some cases ultrasound may be used to detect birth defects.

Thyroid Ultrasound

Description: A thyroid ultrasound uses sound frequency in a range that is higher than humans are able to hear to produce images of internal structures on a viewing screen. This test is used to evaluate the tissue of the thyroid gland. The thyroid is located in the anterior neck region and is shaped like a bow-tie, having two halves (lobes): a right lobe and a left lobe joined by an isthmus. The thyroid is an endocrine gland that produces thyroid hormone. This hormone regulates the rate at which the human body carries on its necessary functions.

Indications: The thyroid ultrasound is used to evaluate lumps or masses that may appear in the area of the thyroid gland. Patients that have had radiation therapy are more prone to develop a lump or mass. Some lumps and masses may have been identified earlier with nuclear medicine imaging of the thyroid or have appeared as incidental findings on other tests such as carotid ultrasound, CT scan or MRI of the neck.

Scrotal Ultrasound

Description: A scrotal ultrasound uses sound frequency in a range that is higher than humans are able to hear to produce images of the internal structures on a viewing screen. Ultrasound of the scrotum is the primary method used to evaluate disorders of the testicles and the surrounding tissues. This test is non-invasive and involves no radiation.

Indication: Scrotal ultrasound is indicated for acute pain, absent or undescended testicles, inflammation, hydrocele (fluid collection), varicocele (abnormal blood vessels), or a mass. It may also be used to diagnose testicular torsion, a condition that occurs when the spermatic cord containing the blood vessels that supply the testicles twists.

Upper & Lower Extremity Arterial Doppler Studies

Description: The Arterial Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves at a frequency that is higher than humans are able to hear to produce images on a monitor for the purpose of evaluating the arterial blood flow to the upper extremities (arms) and lower extremities (legs).

Indication: The Arterial Doppler study is able to demonstrate blocked or reduced blood flow through the major arteries of the arms and legs. It is used to evaluate:

• Numbness and tingling sensations in the hands, arms, feet and legs
• Sensation of fatigue and heaviness in the arms and legs
• And to investigate the possibility of thoracic outlet syndrome.

The Arterial Doppler studies take approximately 60-90 minutes.