Imaging & Ultrasound Inc.
Ultrasounds, 3-D Imaging, X-Rays, Bariums, Mammography, IVPs, PACs, Biopsies
3D Ultrasound
Three dimensional (3D) and four dimensional (4D) imaging ultrasound are relatively the latest developments in medical sonography.
It allows for image planes which were previously impossible to be seen with 2D imaging to be accomplished
The images are acquired, digitally stored as ultrasound volume data, reformatted, post processed, reconstructed and displayed as a 3D image.
Four dimensional (4D) imaging is a dynamic study of the anatomy being examined.
This technique is often used in obstetrics imaging. While 2D imagine is used to assess the growth and fetal well being. 3D and 4D scans are used to for viewing the fetal surface structures and in some cases used as entertainment or keep sake ultrasound.
These examination are performed by skilled personnel and should not replace the medically indicated examination.
Since the data can be archived digitally, it can be sent to other workstations for further consultations via network.
Other uses of 3 and 4D imaging:
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Cardio vascular, cardiac anatomy, septal defects, blood flow, aneurysms
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Abdomen – liver masses, gall bladder
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Gynecology – uterus (fibroids, location of intra uterine conceptive device), ectopic pregnancy., endometrial polyps.
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Ultrasound guided interventional procedures eg; biopsy procedures.
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How the test is performedAn ultrasound machine creates images that allow various organs in the body to be examined. The machine sends out high-frequency sound waves, which reflect off body structures to create a picture. A computer receives these reflected waves and uses them to create a picture. Unlike with x-rays or CT scans, there is no ionizing radiation exposure with this test. You will be lying down for the procedure. A clear, water-based conducting gel is applied to the skin over the abdomen. This helps with the transmission of the sound waves. A handheld probe called a transducer is then moved over the abdomen. You may be asked to change position so that the Radiologist or Ultrasonographer can examine different areas. You may also be asked to hold your breath for short periods of time during the examination. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.
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Who needs An Abdominal Ultrasound?If you are looking for or have symptoms similar to: enlarged organ (such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys) fluid in the abdominal cavity gallstone hernia pancreatitis kidney blockage or cancer kidney stone liver cancer appendicitis Tumors and lymphadenopathy Unexplained pain in the abdomen Aortic aneurysm
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How to Prepare for the TestPreparation for the procedure depends on the nature of the problem and your age. Usually patients are asked to not eat or drink for several hours before the examination. You will be told to fast for 8 to 12 hours before your ultrasound especially if your ultrasound is specifically being done to view your gallbladder and liver. Contact our office for appointments and instructions.
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How is an Abdominal Ultrasound Scan done?you will be asked to change into a gown or remove your upper garments and remove any jewelry or other objects that might interfere with the scan. Then you’ll lie down on the ultrasound table with your abdomen exposed. The radiologist or ultrasound technician (sonographer) will put a special lubricating gel on your abdomen. The gel (sometimes a little cold) is used to prevent air pockets forming between the skin and the ultrasound transducer which would cause suboptimal images. The transducer is moved over your abdomen and using sound waves produces images of your organs on the ultrasound monitor. Images and measurements are saved on the ultrasound machine and sent to the Radiologist station for reporting using a digital PAC’s system. If you’re having pain in your abdomen, you may feel slight discomfort during an ultrasound otherwise the scan should not be painful. When the scan is done, the technician will clean the gel off your abdomen and ask you to put back on any items of clothing you had removed. The procedure usually lasts about 30 minutes.
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How the Test Will FeelThere is little discomfort. The conducting gel may feel slightly cold and wet.
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Why the Test is PerformedYour health care provider may order this test to: Determine the cause of abdominal pain Determine the cause of kidney infections Diagnose a hernia. Diagnose and monitor tumors and cancers Diagnose or treat ascites. Learn why there is swelling of an abdominal organ Look for damage after an injury Look for stones in the gallbladder or kidney Look for the cause of abnormal blood tests such as liver function tests or kidney tests Look for the cause of a fever The reason for the test will depend on your symptoms.
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What factors interfere with the results of an Abdominal Scan?Due to any of the following conditions suboptimal images may be obtained making it difficult for the Radiologist to make a comprehensive diagnostic report. severe obesity food inside the stomach barium (a liquid you swallow in some tests that helps your doctor see your stomach and gastrointestinal tract) leftover in the intestines from a recent barium procedure excess intestinal gas Once a radiologist is available you may wait 15– 20 minutes for the report.
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Normal ResultsThe organs examined appear normal.
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What Abnormal Results MeanThe meaning of abnormal results depends on the organ being examined and the type of problem. Talk to your health care provider if you have any questions or concerns.
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RisksThere is no documented risk. No ionizing radiation exposure is involved.