How Does Sonography Work?
External sonograms or ultrasounds use a wand-like device called the transducer. The transducer is pressed to the surface of the skin to send ultrasound waves into the body and captures the echos. A computer analyzes these echoes and transforms them into an image.
Technicians are trained to see, measure, and identify organs within the image. Providers evaluate the images to help diagnose whatever health issue a patient is experiencing.
Diagnostic Sonography
Ultrasounds or sonograms are a noninvasive method of peering into the body that can help avoid exploratory surgery without needing exploratory surgery. Sonography is often used to diagnose things like:
- Gallstones
- Gallbladder disease
- Kidney stones
- Kidney Disease
- Liver disease
- Appendicitis
- Ovarian cysts
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Uterine growths
- Fibroids
- Breast abnormalities
- Pregnancy
At Capital Women’s Care, sonography is most often used to monitor conditions common to women, such as pelvic pain, ovarian cysts, and pregnancy development. In select locations, sonography of the breast is also performed.
3D Sonogram
A 3D sonogram is done similarly to a regular sonogram, but using additional computing power, the 2D images are “stacked” creating a 3-dimensional image. Although 3D imaging is available and safe, it’s mostly used during pregnancy and is limited to special circumstances. Talk to your provider to see if this type of imaging is right for you.
Safety
The American College of OB/GYN and the FDA have approved sonography as a safe procedure during pregnancy with no limitations when used for diagnostic reasons. It is also important to understand that most insurance companies will only reimburse for medically indicated sonograms.
Contact Capital Women’s Care to Schedule an Appointment
Capital Women’s Care is devoted to women, and 100% focused on your individual needs. You can trust our team to listen to your concerns and deliver exceptional patient satisfaction. Contact Capital Women’s Care today to schedule your appointment!