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Ultrasound Frequently Asked Questions

Is ultrasound dangerous?
No. The amount of energy in an ultrasound is believed to be too low to cause damage.

Are there any special uses of ultrasound?
Ultrasound is especially useful in evaluating pregnancy because it does not harm the fetus or the mother. It is used to determine the age and well being of the fetus, placenta location, and the presence of multiple pregnancies.

With ultrasound techniques, pregnancy can be detected as early as five weeks after conception. Abnormalities of the mother's womb, such as placental abnormalities or a hydatidiform mole, may be revealed. Fetal abnormalities can also be detected early in pregnancy.

It can be used to image the organs of the abdomen (i.e. liver, gall bladder, spleen, pancreas, aorta, and kidneys).

Ultrasound is also used to determine if a mass found in the breast is a cyst or a solid tumor.

Ultrasound may also help to diagnose thyroid, pancreatic, and gynecological disorders, and to locate devices within the body, such as an intrauterine device.

Echocardiography is a form of ultrasound technique that may be used to diagnose cardiac disorders.

Ultrasound techniques may also be used to detect narrowing of the arteries and alterations in the blood flow.

• General Information - A brief background description of how ultrasound works

• Preparation - Everything you need to know about the examination and how it should
                             be prepared for

• FAQ - Answers to a variety of frequently asked questions concerning BMD testing

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