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Uses of Ultrasound in the Medical Field

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People often link the term ultrasound to a pregnant woman seeking medical services regarding the growing baby inside her womb. In the real sense, ultrasound is a diagnostic tool that has many applications. It uses sound waves to develop ultrasound images of what’s going on inside your body. The san antonio ultrasound technicians have special training in how to perform tests and interpret ultrasound images. From confirming pregnancy to diagnosing certain conditions, ultrasound imaging has many applications in medicine. This technology has been widely used to diagnose and treat several conditions. One benefit of ultrasound is that the diagnostic results and information are relayed in real-time to produce images on a computer screen. This article explores reasons why you should try ultrasound treatment.

During pregnancy

Ultrasound images can be used to determine due dates, and also reveal the presence of multiple babies. They are also valuable screening tools for detecting potential problems, like birth defects, placental issues, breech positioning, and ruling out ectopic pregnancies. Ultrasound can also help you learn about the gender of your baby halfway and estimate how large a baby is just before delivery.

Ultrasound is safe

According to several studies, ultrasound is generally safe and known to have no harmful side effects. Besides, there is no discomfort during the test since the test doesn’t involve the use of radiation. Lastly, the procedure is also not linked to any possible long-term effects.

During diagnostics

The application of ultrasound imaging in diagnosis has been used in a wide variety of conditions affecting the organs and soft tissues of the body. Although ultrasounds have some diagnostic limitations, like sound waves not being able to transmit well through dense bone, they can be used to detect potential problems associated with the heart, the liver, and the testicles.

During medical procedures

Ultrasound imaging can also be used during procedures that require the doctor to remove tissue from a very precise area of the body such as needle biopsies. In addition, this screening tool is also used to detect and treat soft-tissue injuries in the body.

Advantages Ultrasounds offer

Ultrasound comes with a package of benefits. Such advantages include: 

  • Generally painless since they do not involve incisions.
  • Doesn’t expose the patient to radiation 
  • It is not known to have any harmful effects
  • Unlike X-rays, ultrasound captures images of soft tissues
  • widely accessible 
  • Less expensive than other methods.

Preparation for an Ultrasound procedure

Before the ultrasound test, your doctor may offer special instructions to adhere to. Here are some ways to prepare for the ultrasound.

  • Avoid eating anything apart from water for several hours before the test. 
  • Refrain from using the bathroom to ensure you have a fuller bladder.
  • Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to partially remove. 
  • Wear a gown

Conclusion

A typical sanantonio ultrasoundprocedure takes approximately an hour. Since the operation is not uncomfortable, patients can stay alert during the procedure. However, for better results, be sure to tell your doctor about any prescription drugs you are taking before the exam. It is also important to ask any questions you may have before the procedure.