Ultrasounds are noninvasive tests that are used to create images of organs and systems within the body. Also referred to as sonograms, ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to capture the movement of the body's structures and can also display blood flowing through vessels. Doctors use ultrasounds to diagnose a variety of medical conditions and to assess organ function.
Evaluate Symptoms
One medical use of an ultrasound would be to evaluate symptoms. A physician may use an ultrasound to determine the cause for any pain, swelling or infection that is present. An ultrasound is also useful to examine any abnormalities or damages that may have occurred to an organ following an illness.
Examine Internal Organs
An ultrasound is a helpful way to observe many of the body's internal organs. An ultrasound of the abdominal area may be done to show the condition of the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys and bladder.
The condition of the thyroid and parathyroid can be inspected using an ultrasound. Anomalies of the scrotum or testicles can be revealed with the use of an ultrasound, too. The status of the uterus or ovaries can also be assessed with an ultrasound.
Evaluate Pregnancy
Medical uses of ultrasound are common in pregnancy and are done to evaluate the development of an unborn child.
Check Blood Flow
Ultrasounds are used to help a doctor evaluate the flow of blood in the vessels if an obstruction is thought to exist, frequently occurring with blood clots. Blood vessels -- and any narrowing that exists from the buildup of plaque -- can be observed with the use of an ultrasound. The heart can also be studied by using an ultrasound, often referred to as an echocardiogram. The visual flow of blood and volume illustrated through the use of ultrasound enables the physician to make an accurate diagnosis of the heart and to determine what procedure may be necessary.
Determine Abnormalities
An ultrasound may also be used to determine if any tumors or congenital malformations are present. This can expose any abnormalities of the muscles or tendons in an arm or leg.
Guide Procedures
Needle biopsies are guided with the use of ultrasound. The needle draws out cells from abnormal areas, and the samples are tested. Ultrasounds can help guide the biopsy of breast tissue, for example. Treatment of tumors and some forms of cancer may also be facilitated when an ultrasound is used to guide the procedure.
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