Ultrasound Imaging at North Fork Radiology

North Fork Radiology is accredited in Ultrasound by the American College of Radiology and all of our Ultrasound Technologists are RDMS registered.

What is General Ultrasound Imaging?

Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography is a method of seeing inside the human body through the use of high-frequency sound waves. The sound waves are recorded and displayed as real-time visual image. No ionizing radiation is involved in ultrasound imaging.

Ultrasound is a useful way of examining many of the body’s internal organs, including the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys and bladder as well as examining the uterus and fetus of an unborn child. Because ultrasound images are captured in real-time, they can show movement of internal organs and tissues and enable physicians to see blood flow and heart valve functions.

What is Doppler Ultrasound?

Doppler ultrasound is a special technique used to examine blood flow. Doppler images can help a physician to see and evaluate blockages to blood flow, such as clots, build-up of plaque inside the vessel and congenital malformation.

How is an Ultrasound Procedure Performed?

The patient is usually positioned on an examination table. A clear gel is applied to the patient’s body in the area to be examined, to help the transducer make secure contact with the skin. The technologist or radiologists presses the transducer firmly against the patient’s body moving it until the desired images are captured. There may be varying degrees of discomfort from the pressure as the technologist guides the transducer over the area of interest. In some cases it may be necessary to apply a fair amount of pressure to achieve the necessary images. However, more often than not it is a painless procedure. If discomfort is experienced it is typically mild in nature.

How to Prepare for an Ultrasound

You should wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Dependant on the type of ultrasound procedure you are scheduled for you may have to drink up to 32 ounces of water and hold your bladder or fast for up to 12 hours prior to your examination. Many ultrasound examinations require no prior preparation. As such be certain to ask your referring physician or a representative from NFR if there is a preparation for your scheduled examination.

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