Ultrasonography, commonly known as ultrasound, is a versatile imaging technique used in various medical fields to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. It employs high-frequency sound waves to create images of structures within the body, making it a safe and non-invasive diagnostic tool. Here, we explore the different types of ultrasonography tests, including abdominal, breast, obstetrics and gynecology, fetal echocardiography, pediatric echocardiography, adult echocardiography, vascular, and musculoskeletal ultrasounds.
1. Abdominal Ultrasonography
Purpose:
- Evaluate abdominal organs such as the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder.
- Detect conditions like gallstones, kidney stones, liver disease, and tumors.
Procedure:
- The patient lies on their back while a transducer (a handheld device) is moved over the abdomen.
- The transducer sends sound waves into the body, and the returning echoes create images on a monitor.
2. Breast Ultrasonography
Purpose:
- Examine breast tissue for abnormalities such as lumps, cysts, or tumors.
- Often used as a follow-up test after a mammogram.
Procedure:
- The patient lies on their back or side while a gel is applied to the breast area.
- The transducer is moved over the breast to capture detailed images.
3. Obstetrics and Gynecology Ultrasonography
Purpose:
- Monitor fetal development and maternal health during pregnancy.
- Diagnose gynecological conditions such as ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and pelvic inflammatory disease.
Procedure:
- In obstetrics, the transducer is moved over the pregnant woman’s abdomen to visualize the fetus.
- In gynecology, a transvaginal ultrasound may be performed, where a specialized transducer is inserted into the vagina for better imaging of the reproductive organs.
4. Fetal Echocardiography
Purpose:
- Assess the fetal heart’s structure and function during pregnancy.
- Diagnose congenital heart defects before birth.
Procedure:
- Similar to a standard obstetric ultrasound, but focused on the fetal heart.
- The transducer captures detailed images and videos of the fetal heart’s chambers, valves, and blood flow.
5. Pediatric Echocardiography
Purpose:
- Evaluate the heart of infants and children for congenital or acquired heart diseases.
- Monitor heart conditions and guide treatment plans.
Procedure:
- The child lies on an exam table, and a transducer is placed on the chest to create images of the heart.
- Special techniques and smaller transducers are used for pediatric patients.
6. Adult Echocardiography
Purpose:
- Assess the heart’s structure and function in adults.
- Diagnose conditions such as heart valve disease, heart failure, and cardiomyopathy.
Procedure:
- The patient lies on their left side while a transducer is moved over the chest.
- Different types of echocardiograms, such as transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), may be used for detailed imaging.
7. Vascular Ultrasonography
Purpose:
- Examine blood vessels and blood flow.
- Diagnose conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), carotid artery disease, and peripheral artery disease.
Procedure:
- A transducer is placed over the area of interest (e.g., neck, legs) to visualize the blood vessels and assess blood flow.
- Doppler ultrasound may be used to measure the speed and direction of blood flow.
8. Musculoskeletal Ultrasonography
Purpose:
- Evaluate muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints for injuries or abnormalities.
- Diagnose conditions such as tendonitis, bursitis, and muscle tears.
Procedure:
- The patient positions the body part to be examined (e.g., shoulder, knee) while a transducer is moved over the area.
- Real-time images help assess the structure and movement of musculoskeletal components.
Ultrasonography is a crucial tool in modern medicine, offering detailed insights into various organs and systems without the need for invasive procedures. Each type of ultrasound test is tailored to specific diagnostic needs, aiding in the early detection and management of numerous medical conditions. If your healthcare provider recommends an ultrasound, understanding the purpose and procedure can help you prepare and feel more at ease during the examination.
Ultrasonography test price:
The cost of an ultrasonography (ultrasound) test can vary depending on several factors, including the type of ultrasound, the quality of the Doctor conducting the USG and the equipment used. USG prices at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre are economical compared to other diagnostic centres in Kolkata.
To get an ultrasound done at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, call our helpline number 9830117733.
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Disclaimer:
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
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