|
Overview
|
Ultrasound is a simple, safe, painless diagnostic procedure that bounces high-frequency sound waves off parts of the body and captures the returning echoes as images. This modality is commonly used to capture moving images of pelvic and abdominal function, breast abnormality, the male and female reproductive system, kidneys, thyroid, and the developing fetus. Using the Doppler technique, ultrasound is an effective method of capturing images of large blood vessels, vascular structures and the heart using echocardiography.
Oregon Imaging Centers ultrasound department is accredited by the American College of Radiology and only employs sonographers who are board trained and certified. You can review information specific to your scan by selecting from the 'study type' menu in the left column.
|
|
|
|
ULTRASOUND - TRANSVAGINAL
|
|
|
(5) Philips IU22 3D/4D Ultrasound Scanner
|
|
- Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your procedure.
- Please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You will be asked to change into a gown prior to your ultrasound study. Most of our changing rooms offer secure lockers, but we encourage patients to leave valuables at home. Once changed, our sonographer will guide you to the ultrasound examination room.
- The test can be performed at any stage of a woman's menstrual cycle. If you are menstruating and wearing a tampon, you will need to remove the tampon before the test.
- The test can be performed when pregnant
|
|
Transvaginal ultrasound is performed very much like a gynecologic exam, with the patient lying on her back with her feet in stirrups. A small probe called a transducer is inserted into the vaginal canal. The tip of the transducer is smaller than the standard speculum used when performing a Pap test. Only two to three inches of the transducer end are inserted into the vagina. There is minimal discomfort.
Sound waves will pass harmlessly through the skin from the transducer. The sound waves bounce off certain organs and tissue in the body. This creates "echoes." The echoes are reflected back to the transducer. A television monitor shows images as the transducer converts the echoes to electrical signals.
The images are obtained from different orientations to get the best views of the uterus and ovaries. Patients may be requested to lie still, change positions, hold their breath and/or just breathe normally.
Sonographers are specially trained and certified by the American Registry for Diagnostic Sonography to perform ultrasound examinations. Oregon Imaging Centers employs both male and female ultrasound sonographers. If you prefer a female sonographer, please say so when scheduling your exam. We are able to accommodate the request at our Breast & MRI Center within the Northwest Specialty Clinic Building.
|
|
- A sub-specialized radiologist will interpret your images and prepare a diagnostic report for your physician.
- Results are usually made available to your physician in two or three days. If outside comparison studies are required, it may take longer for your results to be made available.
- Your physician will determine how the radiologists' report can be used to develop a treatment plan and speak with you about your results.
|
|
A transvaginal ultrasound looks for abnormalities in the uterus, ovaries and adnexal regions.
|
|
|
|
