A safe, radiation-free imaging method that produces real-time images of organs and soft tissues using high-frequency sound waves.
Indication
- Evaluation of intra-abdominal organs (liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, kidneys)
- Examination of the thyroid, parathyroid glands and lymph nodes in the neck
- Differentiation of mass or cyst in breast tissue, complementary evaluation to mammography
- Musculoskeletal injuries (tendon, ligament, muscle tears), assessment of joint fluid
- Doppler ultrasound flow analysis for vascular (arterial/venous) diseases
- Evaluation of superficial skin and subcutaneous masses
- Ultrasound-guided interventional procedures such as biopsy, paracentesis and injection
Preparation
- For upper abdominal exams (liver, gallbladder), fasting for 6-8 hours is usually required
- For pelvic exams (urinary tract, bladder, uterus, prostate), a full bladder may be requested before the procedure
- No special preparation is required for thyroid, breast, musculoskeletal and superficial ultrasound
- Removal of clothing and jewelry from the area to be examined may be needed
- Bringing previous test reports facilitates comparison
How it's performed
- The patient is positioned on their back, prone or on their side depending on the area to be examined
- A water-based gel that does not stain permanently is applied to the skin to facilitate sound transmission
- The physician/technician moves the probe (transducer) over the skin; real-time images appear on the screen
- If Doppler evaluation is performed, blood flow is monitored audibly and in color
- In some areas, breath-holding or position changes may be requested
- The examination usually takes 10-30 minutes; the gel is wiped off at the end
Post-procedure
- There are no special restrictions after the procedure; daily life can resume immediately
- Results are usually ready the same day or within 1-2 business days
- When findings require, further imaging (CT, MRI) or biopsy may be planned
- If follow-up is needed, it is repeated at intervals determined by the relevant specialty
- For masses/lesions requiring regular follow-up, previous images should be kept for comparison
Risks
- Ultrasonography does not contain ionizing radiation and has no known significant side effects
- It is safe in all age groups, including pregnancy and children
- Some areas (intestinal gas, bone, lung) can block sound waves, which may limit evaluation
- Image quality of deep organs may decrease in very obese patients
- It is patient- and operator-dependent; findings may vary according to physician experience and device quality
FAQ
Is ultrasonography harmful, and can it be performed during pregnancy?
Ultrasonography uses sound waves and does not involve radiation. It is considered safe in all age groups, including pregnancy, and forms the basis of routine obstetric follow-up.
Do I need to come fasting?
For upper abdominal examinations such as liver and gallbladder, 6-8 hours of fasting is recommended. Fasting is generally not required for thyroid, breast, or musculoskeletal ultrasound.
Does ultrasound show everything?
It is very valuable for evaluating soft tissues and fluid-filled structures; however, some areas may be obscured by intestinal gas or bone. When needed, it is supported by methods such as CT, MRI or endoscopy.
What is the difference between Doppler ultrasound and standard ultrasound?
Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to measure the direction and speed of blood flow; it is preferred in conditions such as vessel obstruction, varicose veins, and arterial narrowing.
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Abdominal Ultrasonography
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