Ultrasound
Ultrasound produces images of soft tissue and organs in the body through the use of sound waves that reflect back and are displayed as a real-time image. Ultrasound can detect diseased or damaged tissues, locate abnormal growths and identify a wide variety of conditions, enabling your radiologist to make a quick and accurate diagnosis.
Ultrasound uses a transducer, a wand-shaped device, that when gently pressed against the skin directs high-frequency sound waves into the body . These sound waves echo back and the transducer electronically converts the reflected waves into very precise images of the body. This is the same principal used to track weather patterns and to guide air traffic. No radiation is used in ultrasound, making it a safe alternative for young patients, women as well as pregnant patients.
Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, utilizes high-frequency sound waves to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Ultrasound exams do not use ionizing radiation (X-ray). Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the body’s internal organs, as well as blood flowing through blood vessels.
What to Expect
Ultrasound examination is performed by a sonographer – a technician trained in ultrasound imaging. The sonographer applies a hypo-allergenic, water-soluble gel to prevent air from getting between your skin and the transducer, a small probe resembling a bar of soap. The sonographer then gently passes the transducer over the skin of the area being examined, producing a sensation of light pressure. The transducer generates and receives the high-frequency sound waves. The computer in the ultrasound unit processes and converts the resulting patterns into detailed images.
During the examination, please relax, remain still when asked and follow other instructions. The examination results will be evaluated by a radiologist who has expertise in interpreting sonograms. The results will be sent to your referring physician within one day.
Location
26671 Aliso Creek Road
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
19582 Beach Boulevard
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
16105, 16205, 16305 and 16405 Sand Canyon Avenue
Irvine, CA 92618
4870 & 4900 Barranca Parkway
Irvine, CA 92604
6352 Irvine Boulevard
Irvine, CA 92620
500-520 Superior Avenue
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Hoag Hospital Irvine
Contact: (949) 764-4624
16200 Sand Canyon Avenue
Irvine, CA 92618