What is an ultrasound | How to prepare for it ?
Ultrasound examination, or ultrasound, is one of the most popular methods for examining internal organs in modern medicine. This procedure was first used in the middle of the 20th century, and the first scanner similar to modern devices appeared in 1983. In this article, we will understand what is an ultrasound examination is and how to prepare for it.
What is an ultrasound
What is an ultrasound
Ultrasound examination is a non-invasive procedure, that is, it does not penetrate into the body. This diagnostic method is based on the use of high frequency sound waves . They pass through various tissues and environments of the body and are reflected from them in different ways, transmitting data to a special receiving sensor, which captures the information received and translates it into a graphic image on the monitor .
When creating an ultrasound apparatus, the principle that dolphins use when navigating under water was applied. The dolphin releases ultrasonic waves that bounce off everything in the sea. After that, the signal returns to him. Thus, the dolphin learns where he is and what is around him.
The source and receiver of ultrasonic waves is located in the working part of the scanner. Before starting the study, the sensor is lubricated with gel in order to improve the permeability of the sound wave . The procedure is painless. The doctor sees the image of the internal organs on the monitor.
At first glance, the picture on the monitor is obscure, but the main principle is the difference between black and white. Dense tissues are painted white, and liquid-filled organs are painted black.
What is examined by ultrasound
Echocardiography. Photo: Maryna Ievdokimova / Freepik.com
With the help of ultrasound, the following internal organs can be checked:
heart (echocardiography);
thyroid gland;
abdominal cavity;
pelvic organs;
vessels and nerves.
Ultrasound best sees the organs of the abdominal cavity: the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, prostate gland, uterus and ovaries. In the abdominal cavity, ultrasound does not see the intestines filled with gases, since they do not transmit ultrasonic rays. Also, ultrasound does not reveal lung disease, since it contains air that is impervious to ultrasound.
How to prepare for an ultresound
Depending on which organs and systems need to be examined, additional preparation may be required from the patient.
If the patient is scheduled for an ultrasound of the abdominal organs, then 1-2 days before the procedure, products that cause gas formation should be excluded . The fact is that any medium containing gas serves as an obstacle to ultrasound. Such products include black bread, fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy products, legumes, and so on. Also, 6-8 hours before the procedure, you can not eat .
Please Wait ⤵️
Ultrasound of the pelvic organs is performed with a full bladder . It is recommended to drink 2-3 glasses of water without gas an hour before the study. Doctors also advise drinking coffee before leaving the house, which will speed up the filling of the bladder.
Examination of the heart and blood vessels does not require special preparation.
These are the basic rules to follow.
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