Ultrasound

Ultrasound studies use high-frequency sound waves to produce images of organ structures and blood flow.  The sound waves are reflected from the area being examined to a handheld instrument which is passed back and forth over the skin.

During the exam, a technologist views the images on a video monitor and captures certain frames that will be interpreted by the radiologist. There is no radiation exposure during the procedure.

Common Ultrasound Procedures

Breast Ultrasound:  When a lump or mass is detected by a mammogram or physical examination, a Breast Ultrasound may be used to determine whether it is solid, or a fluid-filled cyst.

OB/Pregnancy:  Cypress Imaging offers 3-D ultrasound technology to assess well-being and create three dimensional images of the developing fetus for diagnostic purposes.

Abdomen and Pelvis:  Ultrasound of the abdomen and pelvis produce images that we use to assess problems in the upper and lower abdominal area.

Arterial and Venous Doppler Studies:  These non-invasive studies are used to help evaluate blood flow through the major arteries and veins of the arms, legs and neck and show any blockages or other concerns such as risk for stroke, blood clots, or other vascular ailments.

Prepare for Your Visit

OB and pelvic exams:  Please drink 32 oz. of water in the hour before your exam. Do not empty your bladder until the exam is complete.

Abdominal exams:  Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your visit.  Medications may be taken with a small amount of water. Do not smoke the morning of the exam.

During Your Visit

You will be asked to lay on a padded exam table.  A special type of gel is placed on the skin to improve image quality and promote your comfort.  An instrument called a transducer is then passed across the gelled area and the ultrasound machine produces images as high frequency sound waves are reflected by tissues or fluids in your body.

For certain female patients having pelvic ultrasound exams, if the area of interest can’t be adequately imaged through the abdomen wall, a probe may be inserted into the vagina to provide clearer images.

Images will appear on a screen and the technologist will capture certain frames that will aid the radiologist in making a diagnosis.

Once your study is complete, you can resume normal activity.  Our radiologist will review the images produced during your study and produce a report for your doctor.

After Your Visit

After your study is over, the images will be evaluated by one of our radiologists.  A final report will be sent to your physician who can then discuss the results with you in detail.

Please contact us if you have any questions about our Ultrasound studies.